Zurich: Appenzell Mountains, Lake & Cheese Factory Day Trip

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Zurich that combines breathtaking scenery with a touch of Swiss tradition, this Appenzell Mountains, Lake & Cheese Factory tour might just be worth considering. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, I’ve gathered enough details and traveler insights to give an honest, balanced picture of what to expect.

What I appreciate about this experience is how it blends mountain adventure with culinary treats — from cable cars riding high on volcanic views to cheese tasting that hits all the right notes. Also, the fact that it’s a private group tour keeps things intimate, which is a blessing when you’re exploring such scenic and sometimes challenging terrain.

On the flip side, a small consideration is the length and physicality of the day. You’ll be walking quite a bit, and with some steep hikes and uneven terrain, it’s not suited for everyone. But if you’re comfortable with moderate outdoor activity, this trip offers a lot for your Swiss bucket list.

In short, if you’re someone who appreciates stunning vistas, delicious local food, and a well-organized itinerary, this journey is likely to enchant you. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive experience but don’t want to spend days exploring.

Key Points

• Stunning views from Ebenalp and Lake Seealpsee make this a visual treat.
• The cable car ride offers a scenic and effortless ascent up the mountain.
• Walking through a cave and visiting a chapel adds a touch of adventure and charm.
• Enjoying a meal at a cliff-hanging restaurant provides a memorable dining experience.
• Walking around Lake Seealpsee allows you to soak in alpine tranquility.
• The cheese factory visit introduces you to Swiss cheese-making tradition.
• The tour is suitable for those comfortable with walking and outdoor activity; not ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience: A Deep Dive

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off in Zurich, with the guide meeting you either at your hotel or a predetermined pick-up spot. From there, you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned van for about an hour and a half to the Appenzell region. This part of the journey sets a relaxed tone, giving you a chance to settle in and maybe get some initial glimpses of Swiss countryside rolling by.

Ascending Ebenalp — The Cable Car Ride

One of the highlights is the cable car ride up to Ebenalp, which lasts about 15 minutes. The ascent is smooth, and the views are pretty spectacular if the weather plays along. The ride itself is an experience: you get to see the landscape open up, with rolling green hills giving way to rugged mountain peaks. It’s an effortless way to reach the summit, especially if heights aren’t your thing but you still want those commanding views.

Walk through the Cave and Visit the Chapel

Once at the top, you’ll walk through a cave that’s on the edge of the mountain. This adds a layer of adventure without requiring serious climbing. The cave walk is relatively short but scenic, and it’s often described as a fun and cool experience — literally and figuratively. Afterward, a visit to a small chapel near the cave adds a peaceful stop, perfect for some photos or quiet reflection.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch at a Cliffside Restaurant

The tour’s highlight for many is lunch at a restaurant hanging on the edge of the rock. The setting is pretty extraordinary — imagine eating Swiss cuisine while overlooking the mountains and valleys below. The food is described as delicious, and the experience feels special. It’s a good moment to relax, take in the views, and chat with your fellow travelers.

Walk around Lake Seealpsee

Post-lunch, you’ll hike down to Lake Seealpsee, which is often described as postcard-perfect. Surrounded by towering Alps, the lake offers a peaceful atmosphere. The walk around the lake takes about 2.5 hours, so it’s a leisurely stroll rather than a strenuous trek. Here, you’ll have ample opportunity to snap photos, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and soak up the scenery.

Waterfalls and Forest Passage

On your way back to the van, the route passes through forested areas with small waterfalls, adding to the charm of the landscape. These moments of natural beauty are appreciated by travelers, who often comment on how the scenery seems untouched and pristine.

Cheese Factory Tour

The last stop takes you to a local cheese factory, where you can observe the cheese-making process and sample some fresh Swiss cheese. This part of the tour is both educational and tasty. Reviewers mention that the tour offers insight into traditional cheese-making, making it more than just a tasting session. It’s a nice way to support Swiss artisans and take home a cheesy souvenir.

Returning to Zurich

After the cheese factory visit, you’ll head back to Zurich, arriving roughly around 6 to 7 pm, depending on traffic and the pace of the day. The drive back is a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights and share photos.

Practical Tips and What to Know Before You Go

• Physical readiness: Expect a fair amount of walking, including some uneven terrain and moderate hikes, especially around Lake Seealpsee.
• Clothing: Dress in layers. Swiss weather can change quickly, and mountain temperatures are often cooler than in Zurich.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential — sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes work best.
• What to bring: A camera to capture the incredible views, sunscreen for protection, water to stay hydrated, and perhaps a light snack.
• Not suitable for: Very young children under 10, pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those afraid of heights or vertigo. The tour involves walking on uneven terrain and some exposure to heights.
• Pricing and value: While the total cost covers transportation, cable car, guided walks, and cheese tasting, you should budget for meals and extra expenses. Considering the scenic spots and unique experiences, many find it good value for a full day out of Zurich.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventure-seeking travelers who love scenic landscapes but prefer to keep travel logistics simple. It’s perfect if you’re keen on Swiss culture, cheese, and mountain views without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The private group setting keeps things intimate, but it’s not specifically tailored for families with very young children or those needing mobility assistance.

For solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting a comprehensive day exploring Switzerland’s natural beauty, this tour offers a good balance of activity, relaxation, and cultural insight. Just remember, if heights or strenuous walks are a concern, you might want to evaluate whether this tour fits your comfort level.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our view, this Appenzell Mountains, Lake & Cheese Factory Day Trip delivers a well-rounded taste of Swiss mountain life. You’ll get stunning vistas, a bit of adventure, and a chance to indulge in local flavors. The experience is especially suitable for those who want a structured day that takes in multiple highlights without the stress of self-driving or navigating public transport.

The combination of scenic cable cars, peaceful lakes, and authentic cheese tasting creates a memorable day that’s more than just ticking boxes. If you’re after a curated experience that balances outdoor activity with cultural flavor, this tour ticks most boxes.

But, if you prefer ultra-flexibility, or if you’re not comfortable with walking or heights, you might find some parts less enjoyable. Overall, for its price point and what’s included, it offers quite a lot for a full day outside Zurich.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 9 hours, including transportation, activities, and breaks. The start time varies, so check with the provider.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation in an air-conditioned van, the cable car ride up Ebenalp, guided walks at Seealpsee, and the cheese factory tour. Meals and personal expenses are extra.

Is it suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10, as the tour involves walking on uneven terrain and some heights. Always consider your child’s comfort with outdoor activity.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change unexpectedly.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, bring a camera for the views, pack water and sunscreen, especially for the outdoor walks.

Is the tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The scenic vistas at Ebenalp, Lake Seealpsee, and the mountain ridges are perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Do I get free time during the tour?
The itinerary is structured, but you’ll have opportunities to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and relax at various stops.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of Swiss nature, culture, and cuisine, this trip could be a highlight of your Swiss adventure. Just go prepared for some physical activity, and you’ll come away with plenty of unforgettable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: