Top 20 Huts and Cabins around Gonten
Best huts around Gonten are found in a fog-free high valley west of Appenzell, Switzerland. This area provides access to mountain huts and inns, particularly in the surrounding Alpstein region. The region also features "Toobeschopfe," small wooden huts historically used for peat storage, offering a glimpse into local heritage during hikes through the Gontenmoos.
Best huts around Gonten
- The most popular huts is Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn, a hut carved directly into the rock of the Alpstein Mountains. This establishment is known for its unique setting within a cliff face and cave, near a 400-year-old cave church and prehistoric cave system.
- Another must-see spot is Staubern Mountain Inn, a hut located on the Stauberngrat at 1751 m above sea level. It offers an overwhelming view overlooking four countries and is known for its excellent food and cozy atmosphere.
- Visitors also love Meglisalp Mountain Inn, a hut nestled in the Alpine village of Meglisalp. This establishment has been expanded and renovated, offering a pleasant experience in what is described as the most beautiful village in the Alpstein region.
- Gonten is known for its mountain inns, traditional huts, and historical "Toobeschopfe." Hikers can explore a variety of establishments, from those offering accommodation and dining to small wooden huts reflecting local heritage.
- The huts around Gonten are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2000 upvotes and nearly 2000 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Meglisalp Mountain Inn
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Staubern Mountain Inn
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Ebenalp Mountain Inn
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Valley Station: 867 m above sea level
Mountain Station: 1,590 m above sea level
Elevation Difference: 723 meters
Length of Track: 1,514 meters
Speed: 6 m/s
Ride Time: 6 minutes
Capacity: 40 + 1 people
Carrying Cable Diameter: 42 mm
Train Cable Diameter: 26 mm
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Bollenwees Mountain Inn at Fälensee
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Ebenalpbahn Technical Specifications: Valley Station: 867 m above sea level Mountain Station: 1,590 m above sea level Elevation Difference: 723 meters Length of Track: 1,514 meters Speed: 6 m/s Ride Time: 6 minutes Capacity: 40 + 1 people Carrying Cable Diameter: 42 mm Train Cable Diameter: 26 mm
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Our mountain guesthouse has seen many a proud face after the steep climb. The guesthouse, in its current form, has existed since 1860, making it one of the oldest mountain inns in Switzerland. Pastor Ulmann was the first hermit to live in the hermitage in the Wildkirchli in 1658. More than 20 men followed his example until 1853, shaping the history of the Wildkirchli as hermits and first hosts. Since then, this mystical place has fascinated generations. Stories are told of little wild people who are said to have once lived in the Wildkirchli caves and come to the aid of the herdsmen. The Aescher inspires poets and artists to create new works. Bones of cave bears and stone tools bear witness to the cave as an ancient shelter. Source: https://aescher.ch/
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The Meglisalp is an alpine settlement in the Swiss canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden. It lies at 1517 m above sea level in a flat hollow in the Alpstein region east of the Säntis. In the local dialect it is called [megli'salp]. The alp was already documented in the Middle Ages (1071 Megelinsalpa, ca. 1280 Megilins alpe).[1] The Meglisalp is a popular excursion destination in summer and can be reached from Wasserauen via the Seealpsee, among other places. In addition to the Meglisalp mountain inn, the settlement also has a chapel. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meglisalp
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Berggasthaus Ebenalp Whether you're looking for a short or long hike, a stroll, a paragliding flight, a few turns on the skis in winter, or simply to enjoy the beautiful view and good food, simply unwind and leave everyday life behind in the valley. With us, you've definitely come to the right place. Text / Source: Berggasthaus Ebenalp, 9057 Weissbad (AI) https://gasthaus-ebenalp.ch/
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Bollenwees at 1471 m above sea level is a beautiful mountain restaurant directly at the Fählensee
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Berggasthaus Staubern High above the St. Gallen Rhine Valley, on the eastern ridge of the Alpstein, above Frümsen, stands the Berggasthaus Staubern at 1751 m above sea level. The overwhelming view overlooking four countries (CH - FL - AT - D) is surrounded by intact mountain flora. The panorama on the Stauberngrat is unique in its diversity. On the one hand, the view stretches far across the Rhine Valley to Lake Constance and numerous peaks from nearby countries are within sight. On the other hand, there is a wonderful view of large parts of the Alpstein mountains. Text / Source: Berggasthaus Familie Lüchinger CH-9467 Frümsen https://www.staubern.ch/
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Berggasthaus Ebenalp We are right in the middle of it all. Whether for a short or long hike, a walk, a paragliding flight, a few turns on the skis in winter or just to enjoy the beautiful view and the good food. Just switch off and leave everyday life in the valley. With us you are definitely in the right place. Text / Source: Berggasthaus Ebenalp, 9057 Weissbad (AI) https://gasthaus-ebenalp.ch/
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The Staubernkanzel is a peak with a height of 1860 meters and is located in the Alpstein Mountains in the canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden. The Staubern mountain inn is located on the Stauberngrat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I see near the huts around Gonten?
The region around Gonten offers stunning natural beauty. For example, the Bollenwees Mountain Inn at Fälensee is situated directly on the idyllic Fählensee lake, surrounded by a breathtaking mountain world. Many huts, like the Staubern Mountain Inn, offer overwhelming views across four countries and intact mountain flora.
Are there any historical sites associated with the huts?
Yes, the Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is carved directly into the rock of the Alpstein Mountains and is near a 400-year-old cave church and a prehistoric cave system. It has a rich history, with hermits living in the Wildkirchli hermitage as early as 1658, making it one of Switzerland's oldest mountain inns.
Which huts are family-friendly?
The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is considered family-friendly, offering a fascinating experience with its unique setting within a cliff face and cave, along with the nearby cave church and prehistoric cave system.
What kind of food can I expect at the huts around Gonten?
Many huts are known for their excellent cuisine. The Staubern Mountain Inn, for instance, is famous for its huge and delicious portions, delectable breakfast bread, and selected regional specialties, including an extensive game buffet in autumn. The Meglisalp Mountain Inn also offers good food, including its unique Meglisalp whiskey.
Do these huts offer accommodation?
Yes, several mountain inns around Gonten provide accommodation. The Meglisalp Mountain Inn and the Staubern Mountain Inn are known for offering overnight stays in pleasant rooms.
What are the best times of year to visit the huts?
The Alpstein region is beautiful year-round. While summer and autumn are ideal for hiking to most huts, the region also features historical "Toobeschopfe" (small wooden huts) that offer a glimpse into local heritage during a leisurely winter hike through the Gontenmoos, a raised bog of national importance.
Are there hiking trails near the huts?
Absolutely. The huts are often destinations or waypoints on various hiking trails. For example, you can find numerous hiking routes around Gonten, including moderate trails like the "Restaurant at Hundwiler Höhi – Ridge Trail Hundwiler Höhi loop from Gonten." You can explore more options on the Hiking around Gonten guide.
Are there other outdoor activities besides hiking near the huts?
Yes, beyond hiking, the Gonten area offers cycling opportunities. You can find various routes for touring bicycles and road cycling. For instance, the "Culinary Appenzeller Route" is a popular cycling option. Discover more on the Cycling around Gonten guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Gonten guide.
Which huts offer the best panoramic views?
The Staubern Mountain Inn, located on the Stauberngrat at 1751 m above sea level, provides an overwhelming view overlooking four countries (Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany) and large parts of the Alpstein mountains. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn also offers unparalleled panoramic views from Ebenalp after ascending through the mountain.
What are the 'Toobeschopfe' mentioned in the region?
The 'Toobeschopfe' are small wooden huts historically used for storage and drying of peat. They are found in the former peat extraction area between Gonten and Gontenbad and offer a unique glimpse into the local heritage, particularly during a leisurely winter hike through the Gontenmoos.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly hut tours around Gonten?
While many routes in the Alpstein region can be challenging, there are also easier paths. The Ebenalp Mountain Inn is easily accessible via the Ebenalpbahn cable car, making it a good starting point for shorter walks or simply enjoying the views without a strenuous climb.
How can I reach the huts around Gonten using public transport?
Public transport options are available to reach starting points for hut hikes. For example, the Ebenalpbahn cable car provides access to the Ebenalp Mountain Inn. Specific routes and schedules can be found via local public transport information for the Appenzell region.
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