Nestled away in a stunning valley lies a stunning and quaint village known as Brülisau. It serves as the starting point of an enthralling and memorable journey to Hoher Kasten, which is known mostly to Swiss people. Hoher Kasten, means high cupboard in English. Hoher Kasten is a mountain located in the Alpstein region, which translates to 'high cupboard'. From its summit, you can enjoy breathtaking landscapes and nature.
Getting There
By car: A 10-minute drive south of Appenzell will bring you to Brülisau, home to the Hoher Kasten cable car station. The car park here can get very crowded on weekends so be sure to arrive early if you don't want to miss out. Remember that Brülisau has two cable cars, make sure you go to the right one - Hoher Kasten.
By public transport: Take the train to Gossau, then another train to Weissbad, then bus 192 to Brüllsau, Hoher Kasten. The bus drops off directly in front of the cable car station.
Things to do in Hoher kasten
1. Take a cable car ride up Hoher Kasten
and get a chance to witness the grandeur of the Appenzell Alps from a bird's eye view. Marvel at the glistening snow-capped mountains, verdant meadows, rustic villages, and serene lakes while you take in this unique experience.
2. Paragliding
Feel the rush of the wind as you soar above the picturesque mountains and experience the ultimate thrill of paragliding. Take a leap and fly away to paradise!
3. Hike up
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not hike up? You can take different trails depending on your fitness level and enjoy the stunning views as you go up!
Head to Hoher Kasten, the entrance to the enchanting Alpsteins hiking trails to discover a range of routes spanning 400km and equipped with 6 cable cars. There's also an abundance of delightful mountain inns that make excellent overnight spots for travelling families on a budget. When planning your hike, make sure to check the weather conditions and dress appropriately, as it can snow as early as September.
For family-friendly walking, Hoher Kasten – Kamor – Forstseeli – Brülisau Trail is an ideal choice. It starts at the cable car and takes hikers along the Kamor mountain ridge. They can then enjoy a peaceful walk through a pine forest before exploring the picturesque Forstseeli Lake.If you're looking for a fun way to wrap up your hike, try having a picnic at the waterside or renting scooters from the Ruhesitz mountain inn to Brülisau. This activity can provide some extra thrill and make your excursion even more enjoyable!
4. Enjoy the view from the revolving restaurant
Treat yourself to an array of delicious Swiss cuisine including fondue, raclette, and rösti, as well as international dishes while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surroundings, and if you are lucky, you can see the five countries - Germany, France, Liechtenstein, Austria, and Italy's Monte di Zocca. The educational outlet outside provides peak identification systems with benches and telescopes for convenience. There is also an alpine garden filled with rare plant species to explore.
All in all, Hoher Kasten in Switzerland is an amazing place to visit for travelers of all ages. With its breathtaking views, delicious food, and plenty of activities, it is the perfect destination for a day spent exploring nature. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a place to explore, Hoher Kasten is the place to go!