Ebenalp makes the ideal starting point for hikes in the impressive Alpstein. This is where the Appenzell region really comes into its own, with gentle alpine meadows, rugged rock formations and magnificent viewing points.

You can feel the elemental power of the mountain to this day.
It all began on the rocky face of the Aescher and within the Wildkirchli caves – the wellspring of tourism in the Alpstein area. And the Berggasthaus Aescher is right at the heart of it. It is one of the oldest mountain inns in Switzerland. As early as 1800, hermits and alpine dairymen began catering for guests on the Aescher Alp. Today the inn has gained widespread renown for its atmosphere and hospitality. It nestles against the rock face, at one with the mountain and its imposing natural setting. The inn makes for a striking sight that has since become world-famous.

The main attraction in nearby Wildkirchli is just as impressive. Prehistoric finds made the Wildkirchli caves famous in 1904. For the first time, excavations proved that Neanderthals also existed in the Alpine region. The tracks of cave bears have also been identified.

The Ebenalp, the Alpstein’s superb sun terrace, also has much to offer in winter.

Swap the grey everyday for sun-soaked delight.
Head softly and gently through the snow-powdered landscape, the sun on your face and the view over the Alpstein before you. This is winter at its finest. And there’s plenty of fun to be had on the Panorama Trail and Snowshoe Trail, too.
Both hikes lead from the Ebenalp mountain station past the Berggasthaus. Sun-seekers and those looking for relaxation will find exactly what they’re looking for here.

The Ebenalp-Horn ski area is also a great place to unwind. Wave goodbye to stress: everything here is within easy reach, there are plenty of parking spaces and you won’t have to wait long for anything. Here it’s about slowing right down. Just the thing for laid-back fun in the snow in the Appenzell region.
Our local ski area boasts a range of downhill runs of all levels of difficulty for the whole family.