Appenzell is a picturesque village situated in the eastern part of Switzerland, within a canton named Appenzell Innerrhoden. It’s renowned for its rolling hills and pastures populated by cows. A spot not overwhelmed by tourists, it’s situated somewhat off the beaten track. Today, I’ll discuss what makes Appenzell noteworthy, highlight fascinating facts about it, suggest places to visit, and introduce flavors to try.
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Appenzell – Fascinating Facts
There’s much to discuss about Appenzell. I undertook two guided tours (also available in English), which I wholeheartedly recommend! This provides the opportunity to converse with a local, ask questions about things that pique your interest, and form new acquaintances. Here, I’ll outline some of the most surprising customs and stories associated with this place.
Appenzell is known for its tradition of Landsgemeinde, an open assembly of citizens where local issues are decided. Votes aren’t cast on paper, but instead, one votes by raising one’s hand in the air. This is an ancient democratic custom that has persisted to the present day. It’s currently practiced in only two places in Switzerland, Appenzell included.
Another unexpected fact pertains to women’s rights. Appenzell Innerrhoden was the last canton in Switzerland to grant women the right to vote at the local level. This milestone was achieved only in 1991, following a national intervention. Intriguingly, until that time, women were tasked with monitoring the voting process.
Appenzell is among the places in Switzerland where a traditional Alpine festival is celebrated, marking the event of bringing cows down from the mountains for the winter. The cows are adorned with decorations, making for interesting parades featuring music and traditional food.
Appenzell Attractions
Let’s begin by clarifying that Appenzell may seem like a village to some and a small town to others. With a population just under 6,000, it may appear minuscule. Nevertheless, irrespective of the label, Appenzell isn’t just a place, it’s an experience. To truly grasp its essence, one must try the local cuisine, listen to the music, and partake in local events. This locale boasts a multi-generational tradition that’s truly remarkable in the 21st century.
My tour started at the Appenzell Museum. Nestled in the town center, this museum offers a comprehensive look into the region’s history and culture. Exhibitions cover topics from traditional costumes and embroidery to music and art.
Interestingly, the historical costumes displayed in the photos are still worn today in Appenzell. Passed down from generation to generation, the cost of such attire is 20,000 francs today. They are reserved for significant events, particularly religious ones. This part of Switzerland predominantly practices Catholicism, so if you visit Appenzell during Corpus Christi, you might witness these uniquely dressed individuals.
A tour of the old town is a must when visiting Appenzell. The old town is exceedingly charming, with its colorful, painted buildings constructed after a fire in 1560.
The first building to receive this distinctive paint job was the pharmacy. It features painted herbs that were used to treat people in those times. These charming houses have been meticulously maintained and restored over the years, allowing them to preserve their original character.
As a result, a leisurely stroll will afford views of colorful house facades at every turn. These drawings often depict scenes from everyday life, characteristic of the buildings or display folklore motifs. Each building tells a different story, contributing to the charm of the place.
As mentioned earlier, Appenzell also offers a chance to discover local culture and traditions. Here, you can sample traditional Swiss disheslike fondue or raclette, as well as local specialties like Appenzeller cheese, a liquor bearing the same name, and wines.
However, the most popular attractions are undoubtedly the mountains! Most tourists come here for this very reason. Appenzell is a haven for hikers. There are numerous well-marked hiking trails, with Mount Säntis – the highest peak in the area – being the most popular. You can either hike to its summit or use the cable car.
Accommodation in Appenzell
Despite being a small village, Appenzell boasts a fair number of accommodations. However, these are often booked well in advance during the peak season or major events.
I personally stayed in the heart of Appenzell village, right next to the renowned square where the elections are held. You can find a hotel with the charming name, Romantik Hotel Appenzell, at this link.
Here, you will find other suggestions in this village.
Booking.comRestaurants in Appenzell
As I mentioned, Appenzell is famous for its exceptional cheese, fine wines, and the iconic herbal liquor (I love the herbal taste, so I savored it).
If you want to sample the local cuisine, I recommend the restaurant at the Romantik Hotel. Here’s what I enjoyed for lunch and dinner:
- Pancake soup (broth)
- Melon with dried ham
- Asparagus, perch with hollandaise sauce, and potatoes (perch in German is “eglifilets”)
- Veal in cream and mushroom sauce with pasta and rösti, accompanied by vegetables
I should note that my visit to Appenzell coincided with the asparagus season, so I savored it at every opportunity. I highly recommend giving it a try.
What else is worth tasting? Local baked goods with the famous cheese, such as those from the Böhli bakery. You can also purchase cakes and cookies there, for instance, with a ginger flavor (they are particularly popular in this area). The family-owned Chäs Sutter Käse store is an excellent place to stock up on cheese.
In conclusion, Appenzell is a place that marries the charm and beauty of traditional Swiss architecture with a rich culture and history. It’s the perfect destination for those who value contact with nature, authenticity, and the tranquility offered by small towns.
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