Schwägalp (Station/Plateau)

Schwägalp is a mountain pass and alpine plateau at the foot of the Säntis, the highest peak of the Alpstein range, in north-eastern Switzerland. It lies on the border region between the cantons of Appenzell Ausserrhoden and St. Gallen, at roughly 1,350 metres above sea level, and it is the valley station of the cable car that rises to the summit of the Säntis at about 2,500 metres. The pass road from Urnäsch to the Toggenburg crosses the plateau, so the place is a junction for cars, buses, walkers and cyclists, and a base for outings into the Alpstein mountains, an Alpine landscape of limestone.

The plateau is both a transport point and a landscape in its own right. A large hotel and a few mountain inns stand beside the pass road, surrounded by open pastures where cows graze in summer, and the slopes behind rise steeply to the Säntis massif, with sheer limestone cliffs. In summer, herds of cattle are driven up to the high pastures, and in autumn they come down in a festive procession decorated with flowers and bells, a custom of the Appenzell region that draws spectators. Cheese is still made in the area, and local dairies and restaurants serve Appenzeller cheese and other regional specialities. The area has a rural character that is quite different from the glossy resorts of the western Alps.

The main attraction is the cable car to the Säntis. The aerial cableway, opened in the 1930s, climbs about 1,100 metres in a few minutes, with views over the pastures, the Toggenburg valley and, higher up, Lake Constance. At the top, a viewing terrace looks over six countries on a clear day, and there are restaurants and a weather station. Plan the trip for a clear morning, because the summit is often in cloud, and check the operating schedule, as the cable car pauses for maintenance at certain times.

At the plateau itself, a nature park, the NaturErlebnispark Schwägalp, introduces visitors to the plants, animals and farming traditions of the Alpstein through themed paths and interactive stations. It is a good way to spend an hour with children before or after the mountain. Walking trails of various levels start from the plateau, some leading up into the mountains toward alpine huts and lakes, and others making gentle loops on the pastures. In winter, a snowshoe and winter walking network is open, and the road is usually kept clear, though conditions can close the pass.

Schwägalp suits families, walkers, cable car fans and travellers exploring the Appenzell region. Access is by car and by regular post bus services, and parking is available near the cable car station.