Embark on an Epic Swiss Alpine Hiking Adventure - Mountain Climbing, Swiss Cheese and More!

A bit about me, Maddy here, I am a Kiwi Indian living presently in Berlin having moved here in May last year with my partner from Sydney. Having lived in 5 countries and travelled to just under 40 countries covering 4 continents featuring numerous solo trips and creating new friendships along the way, I can say with a lot of assurance, you are going to have a great time on my trips. WHY GO? The Alpstein Massif in Switzerland is renowned for having some of the best mountain hiking in the world. The lush Swiss landscape is defined by its towering mountainsides, rich with wildlife and Alpine foliage. The views, the landscapes, and the water features are all stunning to look at. The mountain climbing is epic, steep, and thoroughly rewarding, as it leads from the bottom of the valley to the top of the mountain range, advancing over cliff sides and visiting quaint and delightful mountain huts along the way. The Appenzeller is renowned for its world-famous cheese (and whisky) which you can buy and sample along the way. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS? The Aescher Inn: The undisputed highlight of this area of Switzerland is the Äscher mountain restaurant, which is perched precariously on the base of a 100-meter-high vertical ledge. Originally founded in the mid-19th century, It became internationally famous only when National Geographic put it on the cover of their Destinations of a Lifetime book. Founded next to a magical cave network the inn offers gourmet dishes, and local drinks, all next to a stunning, vertical drop, and view of the valley below. SeeAlpSee: The picturesque Seealpsee is one of the most photographed lakes in Switzerland, at an altitude of 1,143 meters, and surrounded by the enormous mountains of the Alps, and traditional farmhouses. The idyllic location, with clear water and two mountain inns, makes it one of the most popular destinations in the Alpstein, perfect to see the reflection of the entire mountain landscape in its waters. MeglisAlp Mountain Hut: The stuff of fantasies, precariously perched on a mountainside edge, serving rich cheese snacks, fresh lemonade, and hot-piping homemade food all day. At 1520 meters above sea level the hut is nestled in the beautiful mountain world of the Alpstein. Originally built in 1861, the Swiss-styled mountain hut will be your lodgings and rest point for the second night, before you part for the second stage of your journey. The Alpstein Mountain Range: Thanks to its curious rock formations, the Alpsteinmassiv is considered one of the most attractive mountain ranges in Switzerland and a paradise for climbers and anyone interested in geology. Nowhere else in Switzerland is the change from the hilly landscape of Central Switzerland to the craggy Alps so abrupt or impressive as in the Alpstein area. Mighty rock formations up to more than 2,500 meters high tower up as if from nowhere. The Agete Platte: A 1,700-metre overhang, the tight and rugged pass separates the MeglisAlp and Mesmer Mountain Huts and is defined by its narrow, and steep descent, with iron rungs and steps. A highlight in the hiking and mountain climbing trip, it fills your blood with adrenaline and provides some of the best views of the valley below and the impressive and towering Mount Santis that sits above. Wildlife: Along the hike, you’ll see an abundance of wild-roaming Alpine cattle, hawks, marmots, and mountain goats, in addition to high-altitude birds. There is an abundance of farms along the route to purchase the freshest of dairy products, of which the Appenzeller Cheese from this particular region is famous across the world. What is Included? - TripLeader and guide for the entire duration of the trip (Guide can speak German as well). Note: English is the main language spoken on all our trips - Transportation for the entire trip starting from the meeting location to the finishing location - Overnight stay in Zurich hotel - Overnight stay in a Swiss mountain hut (Alpstein mountain hut) with breakfast and dinner included - Guided hikes - Access to a dedicated WhatsApp group for this event to connect with other trip mates, coordinate arrival options & stay in touch (link to WhatsApp group in the ticket) - Access to a shared Google photo album where you can share & view all amazing pictures & videos from the trip (link to google photos album in the WhatsApp group description) Let me know if you have any questions!