Saxer Lücke & Fälensee: A Two-Day Alpstein Hike

The Saxer Lücke and Fälensee hike leads through the jagged limestone peaks of the Alpstein in Appenzell, Switzerland: two alpine lakes, a mountain inn right on the shore and a dramatic pass at about 1,650 m. We split it over two days for a relaxed pace, but strong hikers can do it in one long day.

Start: Brülisau and the Alp Sigel cable car
Take the bus via Weissbad to Brülisau. The Alp Sigel cable car is about 3 km from the bus stop. A very steep trail climbs right next to it, so we rode up and saved our legs for the way down.

To Fälensee and Saxer Lücke
From the top station, the trail drops to Sämtisersee and climbs again to Fälensee. There's a restaurant at Sämtisersee, but save your hunger for Berggasthaus Bollenwees on the shore of Fälensee. From there it's about 1.5 hours up to Saxer Lücke and 1.5 hours back down. Stay the night at Bollenwees and, if the sky is clear, enjoy some serious stargazing.

Back to Brülisau
We took the simplest way back, past Sämtisersee and down to Brülisau. The trail is steep, so wear grippy shoes and take extra care in rain or snow, when chains may be needed. From there, take the bus from Weissbad again.