Visit Berggasthaus Aescher: Cliffside Mountain Guesthouse in Appenzell

History and Significance

Berggasthaus Aescher was built in its present form in 1860 and is one of the oldest mountain guesthouses in Switzerland. The first mention of a shelter at this location dates back to 1658, when Priest Ulmann documented the existence of a refuge in the rocks. Over the centuries, the guesthouse has served as a shelter for pilgrims visiting the nearby Wildkirchli caves, which were a place of pilgrimage.

The uniqueness of the guesthouse stems from its dramatic location – built directly into the sheer cliff of the Alpstein massif, it appears as a natural extension of the mountain. The facade is constructed of wood in traditional Appenzell style, while the back is literally carved into the rock, which serves as one of the walls of the building.

Architecture and Construction

Aescher Guesthouse is an architectural marvel, combining traditional Swiss wooden construction with the natural protection of the rock massif. The building is constructed on three floors, with the back wall being the rock itself. This unique construction makes it extremely resistant to harsh mountain conditions – strong winds, snowfall, and avalanches.

The interior of the guesthouse preserves its authentic 19th-century atmosphere with wooden beams, traditional furniture, and a cozy ambiance. The restaurant offers a panoramic terrace with unforgettable views of the valley and surrounding peaks.

Wildkirchli Caves

The path to Aescher Guesthouse passes through the Wildkirchli caves, which are an archaeological site of global significance. In these caves, traces of prehistoric habitation have been discovered – animal bones, tools, and evidence of Neanderthal life over 40,000 years ago.

The caves were a place of Christian pilgrimage during the Middle Ages, and one of them still contains a small chapel. Passing through the caves is part of the experience – narrow passages, natural rock formations, and impressive views make this hike unforgettable.

What to See and Do

1. The Hike to the Guesthouse

•Time: 15-20 minutes from Ebenalp upper station

•Difficulty: Easy to moderate (stairs and narrow sections)

•Route: Ebenalp → Wildkirchli Caves → Aescher Guesthouse

•Note: Path can be slippery in wet conditions

2. Dining at the Guesthouse Aescher Guesthouse offers traditional Swiss mountain cuisine:

•Rösti (fried potatoes)

•Älplermagronen (Alpine macaroni with cheese)

•Appenzell sausages

•Homemade soups

•Appenzell cheese

•Homemade desserts

3. Overnight Stay The guesthouse offers limited accommodation:

•8 beds in rooms

•15 beds in dormitory

•Reservation required

•Authentic mountain experience

4. Photography Aescher Guesthouse is one of the most photographed locations in Switzerland. Best photos are taken:

•From the path before the guesthouse (classic view)

•From the guesthouse terrace (panorama)

•At sunset (golden light)

•Early morning (fewer people)

Ebenalp Cable Car

Access to Aescher Guesthouse begins with the Ebenalp cable car from Wasserauen:

•Ascent time: 6 minutes

•Vertical difference: 640 meters

•Capacity: 50 people

•Operating hours: May - November (weather dependent)

•Price: ~CHF 32 round-trip (adults)

From the Ebenalp upper station (1,640 m), the hiking trail to Aescher Guesthouse begins.

📋 Practical Information

How to Reach Aescher Guesthouse

Step 1: Getting to Wasserauen

•By car: Parking in Wasserauen (paid)

•By train: To Wasserauen from Appenzell (20 min)

•With TripTransfer: Direct transfer from airport/city

Step 2: Ebenalp Cable Car

•Purchase cable car ticket

•6-minute ascent to Ebenalp (1,640 m)

Step 3: Hike to the Guesthouse

•Follow signs for "Aescher"

•Pass through Wildkirchli caves

•15-20 minutes on foot

Visitor Tips

1.Book in advance - The guesthouse is very popular, especially on weekends

2.Start early - Fewer people and better light for photos

3.Check the weather - The hike can be dangerous in bad weather

4.Bring cash - Not all mountain huts accept cards

5.Respect nature - Don't leave trash

6.Be prepared - The path has stairs and narrow sections

7.Plan time - Minimum 3-4 hours for the entire round trip

8.Reserve overnight stay in advance - If you want to sleep over

9.Bring a flashlight - If planning to stay overnight or return late