Zurich: Appenzell Mountains, Lake & Cheese Factory Day Trip

Imagine a day where you escape Zurich’s urban buzz to walk amidst towering mountains, dip your toes in crystal-clear lakes, and sample authentic Swiss cheese—this is exactly what you get with the Zurich: Appenzell Mountains, Lake & Cheese Factory Day Trip. For about nine hours, you’ll travel comfortably in a private, air-conditioned van, guided by someone who’s eager to share the region’s highlights, from breathtaking vistas to tasty local treats.

The tour’s real treasures are the cable car ride up to Ebenalp, offering sweeping views of the Alps, and the peaceful walk around Lake Seealpsee, a postcard-perfect scene framed by rugged peaks. Plus, visiting a cheese factory gives you a taste of Swiss craftsmanship, making this experience more than just sightseeing—it’s a taste of local life.

Two features stand out: the cave walk that takes you along the mountain’s edge (a thrill for those who aren’t afraid of heights), and the restaurant perched on the cliff—a memorable spot for lunch with an unbeatable view. The only drawback? Given the amount of walking and uneven terrain, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable on their feet. Still, if you enjoy scenery, food, and fresh mountain air, this trip fits the bill perfectly.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, foodies, and anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of the Swiss Alps in a manageable day trip. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, scenic views, and a bit of adventure.

Key Points

• Breathtaking vistas from the Ebenalp cable car and mountain walks
• Authentic Swiss experience with a cheese factory visit and tasting
• Active outdoor adventure involving walking on uneven terrain and exploring caves
• Delicious mountain lunch at a restaurant perched on a cliff
• Beautiful scenery at Lake Seealpsee, surrounded by the Alps
• Comfortable transportation in a private van for stress-free travel

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Appenzell Adventure

The day begins with pickup at your Zurich hotel, setting the tone for a hassle-free journey. The drive into the Swiss countryside is about 1.5 hours, giving you time to relax and get excited for what’s ahead. Once you arrive, the highlight is the cable car ride up to Ebenalp—a 15-minute ascent offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s remarkable how quickly this transforms a bustling city scene into a world of rugged beauty.

The Ebenalp Experience: Cave Walk & Mountain Chapel

After disembarking the cable car, you’ll take a moderate walk that includes exploring a cave on the mountain’s edge. This part of the tour is particularly memorable because it combines natural wonder with a touch of adventure. The walk continues past a charming chapel, where you might pause to admire the quiet beauty and take some photos.

One reviewer describes it as “a walk that feels like stepping into a postcard,” capturing the allure of the rugged landscape. For those wary of heights, it’s worth noting the cave walk involves navigating uneven terrain and exposed edges, so sturdy shoes and comfort with heights are advisable.

Lunch with a View: A Cliffside Restaurant

The tour includes a lunch at a restaurant hanging on the cliff, which is quite an experience. The food is hearty Swiss fare, and the setting is unforgettable—imagine dining with views of the mountains and valleys that seem to go on forever. Travelers often comment on the delicious food and the spectacular location, making it a highlight of the day.

Lake Seealpsee: Serenity in the Alps

Following lunch, the journey continues on foot to Lake Seealpsee, a gem surrounded by towering peaks, including the highest in the region, Santis. The 2.5-hour walk around the lake offers stunning scenery—crystal-clear waters reflecting the jagged cliffs above. The atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for photos or just soaking in the natural beauty. The walk is moderate but involves some uneven terrain and gentle incline, so good walking shoes are a must.

One traveler wrote, “We loved the way the lake looked like a mirror, with the mountains framing it perfectly.” It’s a spot that invites lingering, and many find it a calming break from more strenuous hikes.

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Visiting a Cheese Factory: Tasting Authentic Swiss Dairy

After soaking in the mountain scenery, your group will drive a short distance to a local cheese factory. Here, you’ll get a guided tour of the cheese-making process, followed by a tasting of fresh Swiss cheese. It’s a fun, hands-on way to learn about this iconic product, and many reviews say the cheese tasting was one of the best parts—a true local flavor.

Return to Zurich: Comfort and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a leisurely drive back, passing waterfalls in the forest and reflecting on a day filled with remarkable views and genuine experiences. You’ll arrive back in Zurich relaxed, with plenty of photos and stories to share.

Practical Details & Considerations

• The transportation is in a private, air-conditioned van, which keeps the journey comfortable and offers a flexible schedule.
• The itinerary is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the scenery and explore.
• The tour duration is about 9 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.
• What to bring: comfortable shoes, warm clothing, camera, sunscreen, and water are essential. The terrain can be uneven, and weather can change quickly in the mountains.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues because of the walking and heights involved.
• Cancellation is flexible—free up to 24 hours before, which adds peace of mind to booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re craving a blend of outdoor adventure and Swiss culture without the hassle of organizing logistics, this trip hits the spot. It’s perfect for active travelers who enjoy scenic walks, mountain vistas, and local food. Nature lovers will appreciate the lake and mountain views, while food buffs will enjoy the cheese and mountain lunch. It’s also a good choice if you want a full day of authentic Swiss scenery and flavors, with a comfortable, guided experience.

However, if you have mobility issues, fear heights, or prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding outing, this may not be ideal. Also, the trip involves some uneven terrain, so be prepared for a good amount of walking.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transportation in a private, air-conditioned van from Zurich and back, making the day worry-free.

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable car to Ebenalp takes about 15 minutes, offering fantastic panoramic views en route.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the price, but lunch at a cliff-side restaurant is part of the experience. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy hearty Swiss fare and scenic surroundings.

Can I participate if I am not very active?
The tour involves walking on uneven terrain and some moderate hikes, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activity and heights.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, a camera, sunscreen, and water. Weather can change, so layers are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility impairments due to the walking and heights involved.

Final Thoughts

Travelers seeking an authentic slice of Swiss mountain life will find plenty to love in this day trip. The combination of stunning vistas, the thrill of the cable car, and the serenity of Lake Seealpsee makes for a memorable outing. The cheese factory visit adds a delicious touch of local culture, rounding out a well-balanced experience.

It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a good walk, scenic landscapes, and hearty mountain food. If you’re after a comprehensive, guided day that takes you out of Zurich and into the heart of the Alps, this tour offers great value and genuine charm.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, the personal touch of a private guide and the beautiful landscapes make this trip a worthwhile addition to your Swiss adventure.

Experience the Swiss Alps, sample local cheese, and relax in breathtaking scenery—all in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: