The 2,502 m Säntis summit overlooks several countries on clear days; nearby Appenzell is a village with painted houses, cheese and traditional culture.
Säntis is the highest peak of the Alpstein massif in eastern Switzerland, reached by a cable car from Schwägalp. At the summit, a restaurant and viewing terrace provide a wide panorama. Appenzell, the capital of Appenzell Innerrhoden, is known for painted houses, traditional costume and Appenzeller cheese. The Seealpsee lake and the Wildkirchli cave chapel are reached from Wasserauen and Ebenalp. A long day trip from Zürich, best by train and bus.
| Distance | 90 km east of Zürich |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 2 h-2 h 30 min by train and bus |
| Getting there | SBB train to St. Gallen, regional train to Urnäsch, PostBus to Schwägalp: departs Zürich HB via St. Gallen; train and bus about CHF 45 (about $56) one way plus Säntis cable car return about CHF 58 (about $72) |
| Cost | Train and bus about CHF 45 (about $56) each way; Säntis cable car return about CHF 58 (about $72) |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | Säntis-Schwebebahn, Schwägalp, 9107 Urnäsch |
How to get there
- Train and bus: Zürich HB - St. Gallen - Urnäsch, PostBus to Schwägalp, about 2 h 15 min
- Train: Zürich HB to Appenzell via St. Gallen, about 2 h
- Car: A1 to St. Gallen then Urnäsch, about 1 h 30 min
Location
Säntis-Schwebebahn, Schwägalp, 9107 Urnäsch
47.2490, 9.3434 View on map
Highlights
- Säntis cable car from Schwägalp
- Appenzell village painted facades
- Appenzeller cheese tasting
- Seealpsee and Ebenalp hikes
Tips for visiting
- Check the Säntis webcam before going
- Take layers; summit temperatures are low
- Consider overnighting; the day is long
When to visit
Summer and early autumn.
Accessibility
Cable cars are step-free; the summit terrace has a few steps.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is it a realistic day trip?
Yes but long; allow about 4.5-5 hours of travel round trip.