Best huts around Eichberg are primarily found in the Alpstein massif, located in the Rheintal region of St. Gallen, Switzerland. This area is characterized by its dramatic mountain landscapes and traditional Swiss charm. The region offers a variety of mountain inns and guesthouses, many with historical significance and unique settings. Visitors can explore diverse terrain, from rock-carved inns to tranquil lakeside retreats, all within a natural environment.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Hoher Hirschberg, with restaurant and toboggan run
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What was built here is simply brilliant.
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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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A great cave, with very interesting information. The hiking trail leads directly through the cave.
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Plattenbödeli mountain inn since 1911 at 1284 m above sea level. Unique landscape in the Alpstein. 1911 - Innkeeper Jos. Anton Dörig "Mattle" (great-grandfather of Platte Hans and grandfather of Meglisalp Mile) bought a piece of land at the exit of the Brüeltobel and built a small guesthouse, which he soon handed over to his daughter Franziska Inauen-Dörig. 1917 - Handed over to daughter Franziska Fritsche-Inauen. 1930 - Alfred Fritsche built the current inn. 1934 - Electric light was used for the first time on the Plattenbödeli, powered by a single-cylinder diesel engine and an Örlikon battery. 1958 - Son Hans and Alice Fritsche-Holderegger bought the business. To remedy the water shortage, a 1000m long pipe was laid from the Alp Rainhütte through the lake. The spring is 60m higher than the Plattenbödeli and thus the water flows into the reservoir with counter pressure. The diesel system was enlarged and a dishwasher and a washing machine were installed. 1964 - The mule track through the Brüeltobel is expanded as a road. 1971 - The kitchen is added, the toilet facilities are converted and the restaurant with a self-service buffet is renovated. The main entrance is moved to the sunny side and the terrace is extended. A separate sewage treatment plant is built and the diesel system is renewed. 2022 - Alois and Manuela Inauen Sager purchase the mountain inn. Text / Source: Berggasthaus Plattenbödeli, Manuela and Alois Inauen, Plattenbödeli 1, Brülisau https://www.plattenboedeli.ch/
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former hermit's house / Wildkirchli caves Below the Ebenalp are the world-famous Wildkirchli caves with the former hermit's house and the neighboring altar cave. This place gained world fame due to archaeological excavations that uncovered a large number of cave bear skeletons and tools from the Paleolithic period. Text / Source: Appenzellerland Tourismus AI, Hauptgasse 38, CH-9050 Appenzell https://www.appenzell.ch/de/alpstein/perlen-des-alpsteins/wildkirchlihoehle.html
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An absolutely fantastic place. You have to earn it a little, but it's worth it! Great panoramic view of the mountains and Lake Constance. Two wooden huts invite you to take a rest, and everything is available for a barbecue. If you have a sleeping mat and sleeping bag with you, you could also spend the night here. A few meters further on is the Naturfreundehaus, which welcomes guests at the weekend.
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The region around Eichberg, particularly in the Alpstein massif, offers several unique huts. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is famously carved into a rock face, offering a truly distinctive experience. Another notable option is the Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn at Lake Sämtiser, known for its idyllic lakeside setting and tranquil atmosphere.
For breathtaking panoramic views, the Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn provides unparalleled vistas of the Appenzell Alps and Lake Constance from its terrace. The Hoher Hirschberg mountain restaurant also boasts spectacular 360-degree views of the Alpstein and the Rhine Valley. Additionally, the Kaienspitz Summit Grill and Picnic Area offers great views of the Lake Constance area and towards Alpstein.
Yes, several huts are suitable for families. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is considered family-friendly, with an adventurous path through a cave after a cable car ride. The Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn at Lake Sämtiser is also family-friendly, offering accommodation and activities like swimming in Lake Sämtiser and interacting with donkeys. The Hoher Hirschberg mountain restaurant is another family-friendly option with easy access and good food.
Absolutely. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn has a rich history, existing in its current form since 1860 and originally serving as a home for farmers. Nearby are the Wildkirchli Caves, which were inhabited by Neanderthals 40,000 years ago and later by hermits, with a small chapel built into a cave. The Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn has been a mountain inn since 1911.
The huts are nestled in the stunning Alpstein massif. Near the Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn, you'll find the tranquil Sämtisersee (Lake Sämtiser), perfect for swimming or barbecues. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is located near the ancient Wildkirchli Caves and offers views of the dramatic Alpstein peaks.
The region offers extensive opportunities for outdoor activities. You can enjoy various hiking trails, including routes to the huts themselves. For more challenging adventures, explore the mountain hikes in the Alpstein. The Sämtisersee near Plattenbödeli is popular for fishing brown trout from May to mid-September. In winter, the Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn is part of a prepared circular winter hiking trail.
Accessibility varies. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is reached by a cable car from Wasserauen to Ebenalp, followed by a scenic 15-minute hike. The Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn can be reached via hiking routes or cable cars to Alp Sigel or Hoher Kasten, followed by a mountain hike. The Hoher Hirschberg mountain restaurant is accessible on foot or by car.
Many huts, like the Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn and Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn, serve local delicacies such as 'Chäsrösti' and offer food and drinks throughout the day. The Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn provides various overnight options, including double rooms, nostalgic rooms, and mattress dormitories. The Hoher Hirschberg mountain restaurant also offers accommodation and regional cuisine.
The best time largely depends on your preferred activities. The hiking season typically runs from spring to autumn, offering pleasant weather for exploring the trails and enjoying the views. For a unique experience, some huts like the Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn are also open in winter, providing a romantic setting for winter hiking.
Visitors frequently praise the unique settings and stunning natural beauty. The Aescher-Wildkirchli Mountain Inn is often highlighted for its dramatic rock-carved location and historical significance. The tranquil lakeside setting of the Plattenbödeli Mountain Inn and its friendly donkeys are also popular. Many appreciate the delicious regional cuisine and the warm hospitality found in these mountain inns.
Yes, the region offers various running trails. For example, you can find routes that pass by or lead to areas near huts, such as the 'Hoher Hirschberg Mountain Hut – Restaurant Hoher Hirschberg loop' which offers a more challenging run. These trails provide a great way to experience the scenic landscape while jogging.


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