Appenzeller Käse und Säntis in Switzerland

Day 1 Arrival in Zürich and overnight in Lucerne

We arrive in Zürich today. Depending on everyone’s arrival time, we’ll have the opportunity to take a gentle first walk through Switzerland’s largest city and one of its main financial centres. Zürich is compact and easy to explore on foot, with a lovely old town, lively cafés, and glimpses of the lake and river along the way—an ideal soft landing after the journey.

In the afternoon, we set off by train to Lucerne, a postcard-perfect town surrounded by mountains and lake views. On arrival we wander through the cobbled streets of the old town, cross the iconic Chapel Bridge with its historic painted panels, and take in the atmosphere along the waterfront. You’ll also have the chance to see the moving Lion Monument, carved into rock as a tribute to Swiss Guards, before we come together to enjoy a well-earned dinner.

overnight Lucerne

Day 2 bike and visit Appenzell and cheese factory

Today, we set off by train from Lucerne to Appenzell, a scenic ride through rolling hills, alpine views, and picture-perfect villages.

The town of Appenzell lies in northeastern Switzerland, at the foot of the Alpstein mountains, and is known for its car-free centre and beautifully painted wooden houses. It’s a place made for wandering—slowly, curiously, and with plenty of pauses along the way.

A leisurely 3-hour bike ride from Appenzell loops through rolling green hills and postcard-perfect villages like Gais and Steinegg, offering views of traditional farmhouses and grazing cows. The route is mostly gentle and scenic, ideal for soaking in the peaceful countryside before returning to Appenzell’s charming center.

There is a high concentration of mountain inns and alpine pasture huts in this region, which means we’ll always have a welcoming place to stop, rest, and enjoy hearty local food.

We also have time to visit a cheese factory where we can watch the famous and very tasty Appenzeller cheese beeing made and learn about its secret.
These day is about connecting—with the landscape, the traditions, and each other—while experiencing one of Switzerland’s most authentic regions.

Bike ride about 2- 3 hours
overnight Appenzell

Day 3 + 4 walking in the Alpstein mountains


This two days we will be walking in the Alpstein region and depending on the weather we will decide our route. The Alpstein region offers many treasures, so we can choose anything from a leisurely walk to a strenuous
Over the next two days, we immerse ourselves in the Alpstein mountains. Our exact routes will depend on the weather and the group, giving us the freedom to choose from a wide range of possibilities—from gentle alpine walks to more challenging mountain hikes. The Alpstein is full of hidden treasures, and whichever path we take, the scenery is guaranteed to be rewarding.
One of the joys of hiking here is the abundance of cozy mountain inns. With 27 alpine huts scattered across the region, we’re never far from a welcoming stop. These are perfect places to rest, enjoy the views, and refuel with a hearty plate of Rösti—crispy fried potatoes, alpine-style.
We plan to spend the night at Fählenalp, sleeping on mattresses in a family-run mountain hut. With grazing animals all around, it feels a bit like stepping into a Swiss storybook. For the brave among us, there’s even a cold mountain lake nearby for a refreshing dip. Our hosts will prepare both dinner and breakfast for us, using homemade products from their own cattle—simple, honest food that tastes especially good after a day of walking.
Each day, we’ll walk around 10 km, with approximately 4 hours of hiking, leaving plenty of time for breaks, views, and spontaneous moments along the way.

walking each day about 10km

Day 3 overnight in a hut and Day 4 overnight in St. Gallen

Day 5 visit St. Gallen and famous old abbey library and departure

Today we have a full day to explore St. Gallen at an easy, unhurried pace. Located south of Lake Constance in northeastern Switzerland, St. Gallen is a typically Swiss town that often stays under the radar—and that’s exactly what makes it so charming.
We’ll wander through the old town, where many buildings are decorated with beautifully crafted bay windows, each one different and full of character. The highlight of the day is the Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This remarkable complex brings together several architectural styles, including baroque, and is home to the famous Abbey Library, with its rich collection of ancient manuscripts. The twin-towered cathedral completes this impressive ensemble.
If time and mood allow, we’ll also enjoy a walk around the Drei Weieren lakes, a peaceful area above the town offering wonderful views over St. Gallen and the surrounding landscape. For those interested, the nearby Textile Museum gives insight into the textile trade that once shaped the city’s history.

This is a day for strolling, discovering, and soaking up the atmosphere of a quietly beautiful Swiss town—not always on the list for tourists, that’s why it is so charming

Late afternoon we take our flight back and wave goodbye to another wonderful trip!