Schäfler — Local services in Schwende-Rüte

🏔️ Schäfler @Appenzell 🇨🇭

📍 Alpstein Ridge | ~1925m Elevation | Ebenalp Region

Schäfler is a stunning ridge-top destination in the Alpstein mountains, with jaw-dropping sunrise views and thrilling trails. We hiked here from Ebenalp via Aescher, starting in drizzling rain, which added a moody vibe to the forested paths. As we gained elevation, the skies cleared just enough to reveal cloudy but mystical views midway through the hike.

Arriving at Berggasthaus Schäfler, the reward was worth every step, a perfect sunset glowing behind jagged peaks, followed by a magical sunrise the next morning that painted the entire valley gold red.

After breakfast, we hiked back down—this time through nonstop rain, making the trail slippery but adding a raw and beautiful atmosphere to the descent. Despite the mixed weather, the entire experience felt adventurous, authentic, and deeply memorable.

⛺ Stay: We overnighted at the Schäfler mountain hut, which was warm and rustic with basic comforts. The highlight was definitely watching the changing skies from the ridge.

🧭 Tip: • Weather in the Alpstein can shift rapidly—come prepared with rain gear. • Sunrise and sunset are truly spectacular here, so an overnight stay is highly recommended. • Trail can get slippery after rain—hiking boots with good grip...

The hike across the Schäfler ridge was challenging but doable. This is coming from a person who does not have any experience hiking a moderate long trail. This was my first and many more to come. I am a lady in my late 40s, hiking alone. I divided my hike in the following manner - Ebenalp - Schafler - Day 1 Schafler - Mesmer - Seealpsee - Wassereun Day 2 To be honest, I was debating whether to turn back and head down to Ebenalp, but the beautiful weather encouraged me to continue. A good pair of hiking sticks is a must-have for this trail. The metal wiring along the descent provides excellent support, so don't be afraid to use it—it's very helpful and makes the route doable. There are some steep, big steps in between, so just remember to take your time and start early. The views are absolutely impressive, and completing the ridge provides a great sense of accomplishment. It was an amazing feeling to finally say,...

First thing you have to be nature lover. You enjoy peace and nature beauty.

It takes 2:30 mints to Ebenalp. From Ebenalp to Schäfler it takes 1:30 (for beginner). It was my second hiking experience. So in total 4 hr, on way back it was 3 hr. In total 7 hr.

Take some food with you boiled eggs, salad water 2L min. Food is very expensive at top. Take a good pair of shoe. They are the key element.

Its a life time experience recommended to everyone. Nature has its own beauty and you will be wittnesd after that hike.

Family people better to book room at near schafler....