Silvesterchlausen
31 December & 13 January
Traditional custom: masked figures in ornate headdresses visit farms with bells and yodelling.
- Where
- Urnäsch and neighbouring villages
- Arrival
- Urnäsch station
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Appenzell Ausserrhoden · Travel guide
Language: GermanCapital: Herisau
Top sights
Säntis
Schwägalp
Cableway access leads to the summit of the Alpstein’s best-known peak, with far-reaching views on clear days. The summit facilities explain the mountain’s weather and geography.
Visitor tip: Check cableway status and mountain weather before travel; conditions can change rapidly.
Plan your visitHerisau
Herisau
Explore the cantonal capital’s historic centre and its traditional Appenzell-region architecture. Local museums and walking routes offer a closer look at the town’s history.
Visitor tip: Consult local visitor information for current museum hours and events.
Plan your visitWitzwanderweg
Heiden–Walzenhausen
This themed route links Heiden and Walzenhausen through rolling countryside and comic panels. The walk combines gentle Appenzell scenery with views towards Lake Constance.
Visitor tip: Check route details and public transport connections before starting.
Plan your visit
Festivals & celebrations
The celebrations Appenzell Ausserrhoden is known for — confirm exact dates on the official agenda before travelling.
Viehschau Gais
October
One of Switzerland's largest cattle shows, with decorated cows, alpine cheese and folk music.
- Where
- Gais
- Arrival
- Gais station
Herisau carnival
February
Lively Guggenmusik parades through the half-canton's capital.
- Where
- Herisau
- Arrival
- Herisau station
Christmas & winter lights
St. Gallen & Appenzell advent markets nearby
December
Small village advent markets in Herisau and Teufen, with the City of Stars in St. Gallen close by.
Dates, programme & ticketsBefore you go
Dates above are typical periods, not confirmed schedules. Check opening hours, admission, age limits and accessibility with the organiser. Book popular concerts and accommodation early; public transport is usually the simplest way to reach busy town centres.
Summer spots
Witzwanderweg
Heiden–Walzenhausen
The Witzwanderweg links Heiden and Walzenhausen with humorous illustrated panels, rolling Appenzell countryside and Lake Constance views.
Visitor tip: Check the route direction and timetable for the return journey by public transport; allow extra time for the panels and viewpoints.
Plan your visitSäntis
Schwägalp
From Schwägalp, the cableway rises to the Alpstein’s exposed summit, where clear days can reveal a panorama across six countries.
Visitor tip: Check live cableway operation and summit weather before departure; wind, cloud and snow can change conditions quickly.
Plan your visitHerisau
Herisau
Herisau’s centre mixes historic streets and traditional buildings with cafés and local cultural venues in Appenzell Ausserrhoden.
Visitor tip: Explore on foot from the station and check museum or event schedules in advance, particularly on Sundays.
Plan your visit
Winter spots
Herisau
Herisau
Herisau’s centre mixes historic streets and traditional buildings with cafés and local cultural venues in Appenzell Ausserrhoden.
Visitor tip: Explore on foot from the station and check museum or event schedules in advance, particularly on Sundays.
Plan your visitAppenzell village museums
Appenzell Ausserrhoden
Appenzell’s museums offer an indoor look at local history, folk art and the distinctive customs of Innerrhoden.
Visitor tip: Check the specific museum’s opening days before visiting, as small cultural venues may have limited winter schedules.
Plan your visitSäntis
Schwägalp
From Schwägalp, the cableway rises to the Alpstein’s exposed summit, where clear days can reveal a panorama across six countries.
Visitor tip: Check live cableway operation and summit weather before departure; wind, cloud and snow can change conditions quickly.
Plan your visit
Check local weather, trail conditions and transport timetables before setting out. Mountain lifts and seasonal attractions may close; snow is not guaranteed.
Quick answers for visitors
- When is the best time to visit Appenzell Ausserrhoden?
- Summer: Gentle hill hikes, cog railways and views over Lake Constance. Winter: Silvesterchlausen folk custom and winter walks.
- Which festivals is Appenzell Ausserrhoden known for?
- Silvesterchlausen (31 December & 13 January) · Viehschau Gais (October) · Herisau carnival (February)
- Is there a Christmas market in Appenzell Ausserrhoden?
- St. Gallen & Appenzell advent markets nearby — December
Have a question about Appenzell Ausserrhoden?
Ask locals and expats in the community forum — from guest cards to festival tips.
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