Seealpsee Appenzell Switzerland
A magical emerald lake nestled in the Swiss Alps, accessible by a scenic hike, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Seealpsee Appenzell Switzerland
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical emerald lake nestled in the Swiss Alps, accessible by a scenic hike, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful escape.
"The lake is absolutely amazing, beautiful colour of water, mountains surrounding the lake."
Sturdy Footwear is Key
The hike can be challenging with inclines and steps. Wear good hiking shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Paved vs. Mountain Trail
Choose the paved path for easier access, or the mountain trail for a more adventurous route. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Emerald Waters of Seealpsee
The lake itself
A breathtaking alpine lake with vibrant emerald waters, surrounded by dramatic peaks. Pure Swiss magic!
Scenic Hike from Wasserauen
Trailhead at Wasserauen
The journey to the lake offers stunning mountain vistas, green pastures, and charming streams.
Alpine Farms and Local Delights
Farms near Seealpsee
Enjoy fresh dairy products directly from local farms, or relax at a lakeside restaurant with incredible views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Ascent Wisely
Pack for All Seasons
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Sturdy Footwear is Key
The hike can be challenging with inclines and steps. Wear good hiking shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Paved vs. Mountain Trail
Choose the paved path for easier access, or the mountain trail for a more adventurous route. :hiking_boot:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view! BBQ spots are available on the southern shore. :sandwich:
Embrace the Climb
The 300m elevation gain is worth it for the incredible scenery. :mountain_cableway:
Tips
from all over the internet
Sturdy Footwear is Key
The hike can be challenging with inclines and steps. Wear good hiking shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Paved vs. Mountain Trail
Choose the paved path for easier access, or the mountain trail for a more adventurous route. :hiking_boot:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view! BBQ spots are available on the southern shore. :sandwich:
Embrace the Climb
The 300m elevation gain is worth it for the incredible scenery. :mountain_cableway:
Dip in the Lake
Take a refreshing dip in the cool, clear waters on a warm day. :swimmer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Seealpsee for its breathtaking natural beauty, describing it as an idyllic mountain lake with stunning emerald waters and surrounding peaks. The hike, though challenging, is widely considered worth the effort for the incredible scenery and the opportunity to enjoy local farms and lakeside relaxation. Some find the elevation gain demanding, especially if coming from flatter regions.
"Amazing lake! The lake is located at an altitude of 1143 meters above sea level and the elevetion is about 350 meters from the parking area at Wasserauen. There are 2 paths from the parking area - paved path and mountain trail. We chose the paved path. Be aware that the hiking might be challenging.
The scenery along the way was amazing, beautiful mountains, lots of green fields and cows eating fresh grass.
The lake is absolutely amazing, beautiful colour of water, mountains surrounding the lake. We took a nice hike around the lake, took tons of pictures, had a nice lunch with great views and enjoyed the silence there.
There are few farms up there, so you can purchase fresh dairy products directly from them. You can also take a dip in the cool water.
We decided to return by the mountain trail. This path contains many steps and a nice stream along the way."
Nissim Cohen
"Beautiful mountain lake, surrounded by nature! There is a couple of BBQ spots on the southern shore.
Be aware that hiking from Wasserauen can be physically challenging with 300m elevation gain.
There are two trails, one goes on the northern side of the river with an aslphalted road, and the other through woods on the souther side - the latter is a lot more difficult."
Grigor Gevorgyan
"Tough hike with lots of sudden incline - we live in the Netherlands so it’s all flat of course haha - but so worth it! Pirata, our 3 y/o Shih Tzu loved it too 🩷"
Patricia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From the parking area at Wasserauen, you have two main options: a paved, gentler path, or a more challenging mountain trail. Both lead to the stunning Seealpsee. The paved path is often preferred for its accessibility, while the mountain trail offers a more rugged experience with a stream alongside.
Yes, there is a parking area at Wasserauen, which serves as a common starting point for the hike to Seealpsee. It's well-organized for visitors.
While there isn't a direct cable car to Seealpsee itself, you can take the Ebenalp cable car which offers access to the area and nearby hiking routes. From Ebenalp, you can hike down to Seealpsee.
The hike from Wasserauen to Seealpsee involves an elevation gain of approximately 300-350 meters. It can be physically demanding, especially for those not accustomed to inclines.
Yes, the Seealpsee trail is generally dog-friendly. One traveler mentioned their Shih Tzu enjoyed the hike, though it's important to be mindful of the terrain and your pet's stamina.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Seealpsee itself. Access to the lake and the surrounding hiking trails is free.
The primary cost would be for parking at Wasserauen if you drive there. If you opt for the Ebenalp cable car, that will also incur a fee.
Seealpsee is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible at all times. However, the Ebenalp cable car and nearby restaurants have specific operating hours.
Yes, swimming in Seealpsee is permitted and a popular activity on warmer days. The water is known to be cool and refreshing.
Yes, there are a few farms and restaurants located near Seealpsee where you can enjoy food and drinks with beautiful views. You can also find BBQ spots on the southern shore. +1
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for capturing the magical scenery of Seealpsee, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the lake's colors.
The lake itself with its emerald waters and surrounding peaks is the main attraction. Don't miss the charming river near Wasserauen and the panoramic views from the hiking trails. 
Yes, it's possible to hike around the lake, offering different perspectives and photo opportunities. The trails provide stunning views from various angles.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the water and sky.
The classic view of the lake with the mountains reflected in it is iconic. Look for elevated spots along the hiking trails for the most dramatic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
+1 Aim for morning or late afternoon light to capture the best colors and avoid harsh shadows. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Seealpsee: Trails and Challenges
Regardless of the chosen path, the Seealpsee trail is known for its significant elevation gain, approximately 300-350 meters. Travelers from flatter regions, like the Netherlands, have noted it as a tough but rewarding hike.
For those looking for an alternative or a way to shorten the hike, the Ebenalp cable car provides access to a higher starting point. From the top of the cable car, it's a downhill hike to Seealpsee, offering a different perspective and a less physically demanding approach.
Experiencing Seealpsee: Beyond the Hike
+1 Many visitors find the lake to be a perfect spot for a picnic, with several BBQ spots available on the southern shore, allowing you to savor a meal amidst nature's grandeur. A unique aspect of visiting Seealpsee is the opportunity to interact with the local alpine culture. Several farms are situated near the lake, offering visitors the chance to purchase fresh dairy products directly from the source. This is a delightful way to taste the authentic flavors of the Appenzell region.
For photographers, Seealpsee is a dream destination. The interplay of light on the water and mountains provides endless opportunities for capturing stunning images. Whether you're hiking around the lake for different vantage points or simply relaxing by its shores, the Seealpsee Appenzell Switzerland experience is one of profound natural beauty and peaceful immersion.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit