The Schwägalp route is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful PostBus routes. Postbuses have been running on the Schwägalp since 1935. From Urnäsch, the Postbus first passes through the village with one of the most beautiful rows of houses in the Appenzell region. Following the Urnäsch river, once to the left and then again to the right, it slowly makes its way up. Initially, past traditional farms and on through the hilly landscape. From Steinfluh, the trail becomes steep, and the Postbus takes you through hairpin bends before reaching the Schwägalp.

From Nesslau-Neu St. Johann, the Postbuses are constantly in the shadow of the Schwägalp and the Säntis massif. The landscape exudes charm in both winter and summer. Passing the charming village of Ennetbühl, a natural landscape opens up with expansive pastures and forests as far as the pass and Schwägalp.

Highlights

• Urnäsch village with the Museum of Appenzell Traditions: alpine drive (Öberefahre), the Bloch, the Sennenball, the Alpstobete, the cattle show and of course the Silvesterklausen celebrations.
• Schwägalp with numerous opportunities to experience nature and go hiking in both summer and winter.
• Säntis – the mountain! A mountain that offers views, weather and experiences, and is a starting point for numerous mountain hikes.

Säntis – the mountain!

The cable car to the Säntis takes just ten minutes. Eastern Switzerland’s own local mountain is a fascinating place to visit. Situated in magnificent natural surroundings, this area at 2,502 m above sea level offers a 360° panorama across six states, as far as Lake Constance and into the Alps. The following experiences really are worth a visit:

• Säntis – der Wetterberg
• Säntis – die Geschichte
• Säntis – die Eiswelt

Having experienced the stunning views, why not take a break in one of the restaurants. In summer, the Säntis is the starting point and destination for numerous challenging mountain hikes.

Experience winter at its best

• Enjoy the romantic Schwägalp Lantern Trail from the end of November until mid-March on the groomed winter hiking trail. It is illuminated with lanterns every Thursday to Saturday evening, and every day between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
• You’ll enjoy the groomed winter hiking trail over the old mountain pass, which is ideal for sledging in good snow conditions. The Postbus will take you, and your sledge, from the Steinfluh stop and back to the Schwägalp.
• Explore the area with snowshoes. You can rent snowshoes from the “Säntis – the Hotel”.