Appenzell Rhine Valley Route

A small ascent takes you from Appenzell through the rolling hills, past traditional farms to Eggerstanden. The magnificent view of the entire Alpstein, a sub-group of the Appenzell Alps whose three mountain ridges meet at the Säntis peak, makes the effort worthwhile. The pale green hills overlooking the Appenzell region reveal the beauty of the scattered village from a special vantage point. Now follow the signs to Oberriet. The approaching descent through the Kobel Forest offers a view of the vastness of the Rhine Valley. An information board about halfway down points the way to the crystal cave which is certainly worth making a short detour. Once you have reached the bottom of the valley, follow the cycle path that runs along the main road to Eichberg. The historic market town of Altstätten with its quaint winding streets and beautiful houses is the centre of the region. The Appenzell mountain railways make the ascent back to Appenzell a breeze.