Introduction 

Nestled in the peaks of Appenzell in Switzerland, the hike to Fälensee offers an unforgettable adventure through some of the most stunning landscapes of the Swiss Alps. This trail is perfect for those seeking a blend of challenging terrain, breathtaking vistas, and serene alpine lakes. Whether you are an experienced hiker or looking to immerse yourself in nature's beauty, this hike promises a rewarding and awe-inspiring experience.

We chose to do this hike over two days for a more relaxed journey. It is possible to complete it in one day, but that would be quite challenging. A link to the trail on Komoot is provided at the end of the post.


The Starting Point: Brülisau

The journey begins in the charming village of Brülisau, which is accessible by public transport from the Weissbad bus stop. Nearby, there are multiple cable cars. The one you want is Sigelbahn Talstation around 3 km from the bus stop. Just ahead of the cable car, there is a very steep hiking route. We decided to take the cable car up and hike down.


The Journey to Fälensee and Saxer Lücke 

After exiting the cable car, the trail descends towards Sämtisersee before ascending again to Fälensee. There is a restaurant near Sämtisersee where you could rest or have lunch, but I recommend holding your hunger until you reach Fälensee and have a break at Berggasthaus Bollenwees. From there, a 1.5-hour hike (and around 1.5 hours back down) to the peak Saxer Lücke awaits you.

During your stay at Berggasthaus Bollenwees, you can enjoy stargazing at night if the weather is good. The next morning, you might wake up early to catch the sunrise, which I didn’t do because I was too tired.


Returning to Brülisau

The return journey from Fälensee to Brülisau can be approached in a couple of ways. We chose the most straightforward route, passing near Sämtisersee and following the trail down. As mentioned, the trail is very steep, so ensure you have grippy shoes, and be extra cautious in bad weather or snow (chains might be necessary). If you prefer public transport, you can take the bus from Weissbad again.


Tips for a Successful Hike

  1. Preparation:

    • Sturdy boots.

    • Weather-appropriate clothing. The weather in the Alps can change rapidly, so be ready for all conditions.

    • Some cash.

    • Snacks.

    • Water.

  2. Cost Approximation:

    • Transportation: Hard to approximate since it depends on the starting point and the route.

    • Cable car one direction: 18 Euro

    • One night at Berggasthaus Bollenwees (breakfast included the next day): 55 Euros (in a shared room with 12 people) Berggasthaus Bollenwees

    •  Lunch and dinner: Around 50 Euros


Conclusion

Hiking to Saxer Lücke and Fälensee is a journey through some of Switzerland's most captivating landscapes. The combination of challenging trails, awe-inspiring views, and the tranquil beauty of Fälensee makes this hike a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or a connection with nature, this hike offers an experience that will leave you with lasting memories of the Swiss Alps’ splendor.


Links

  • Trail on Komoot
  • A blog post describing another possible route, which was also our first planned option. Nevertheless, Berggasthaus Bollenwees warned us against it in bad weather conditions.