Top 20 Lakes around Appenzell Innerrhoden

The most popular lakes in Appenzell Innerrhoden are primarily found within the Alpstein range. Among them, Seealpsee is highly celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque setting. Fählensee, with its dramatic fjord-like appearance, and Lake Sämtiser, known for its unique subterranean outflow, are also very popular.

The lakes are nestled within the stunning Alpstein range, offering diverse natural features. You'll encounter towering mountain peaks, verdant alpine meadows, and dense forests. The waters themselves are often crystal-clear, reflecting the dramatic surroundings. Lakes like Seealpsee are encircled by meadows where free-roaming cows graze, while Fählensee is characterized by steep rock faces giving it a fjord-like appearance.

Yes, Seealpsee is a very popular choice for families. The hike from Wasserauen to Seealpsee involves a moderate incline and is generally considered accessible. A stroll around the lake itself takes about half an hour, leading through meadows and past farmhouses, making it suitable for an easy family walk. You can also enjoy swimming in its waters on warm days.

The region around the lakes offers a wide range of outdoor activities, primarily hiking and cycling. You can find numerous hiking routes, from moderate to difficult, leading to and around the lakes. For example, there are routes like 'Hike above Lake Seealpsee – Wildkirchli and Äscher' or 'Unforgettable Alpstein views – Seealpsee up to Rossmad and Meglisalp'. Cycling options include gravel biking and touring bicycle routes. You can explore more routes in the Hiking around Appenzell Innerrhoden or Cycling around Appenzell Innerrhoden guides.

To reach Seealpsee, you can take public transport to Wasserauen. From Wasserauen, the lake is accessible on foot, involving an ascent of approximately 300 meters over 3 kilometers, which typically takes about an hour. There's also a less steep mountain path from Wasserauen via the southeastern valley side.

Hiking to Fählensee generally involves a longer and more demanding trek compared to Seealpsee. A popular route starts with a bus from Appenzell to Brülisau, followed by a two-hour walk along an alpine road via Plattenbödeli to the Berggasthaus Bollenwees, which overlooks the lake. Other starting points from cable car mountain stations like Alp Sigel or Hoher Kasten also lead to Fählensee, often involving impressive mountain trails.

Yes, there are guesthouses located directly by Seealpsee. You can find options like Gasthaus Seealpsee and Berggasthaus Forelle, offering refreshments and accommodation right by the lake.

Yes, wild swimming is possible in the lakes, especially on warmer days. The waters of lakes like Seealpsee and Fählensee are clear and inviting, though they can be quite chilly due to their alpine location. Lake Sämtiser also offers opportunities for a refreshing swim.

The best time to visit the lakes in Appenzell Innerrhoden is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During this period, the weather is generally pleasant for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the alpine scenery. The water's color can shift between turquoise and green depending on light, time of day, season, and rainfall, offering varied beauty.

Yes, for Seealpsee, there is a circular walk around the lake that takes about half an hour. This path leads through meadows and forests, offering continuous scenic views. While not explicitly mentioned for all lakes, many hiking routes in the region offer circular options that incorporate lake views.

Fählensee is considered by many to be the most enchanting lake in the Alpstein due to its dramatic setting. It is nestled in a narrow valley between the Hundsteingrat and Roslen-Saxer First, with steep rock faces surrounding it, giving it a distinct fjord-like appearance. Its clear, turquoise waters are striking, and it is the third-largest mountain lake in the canton.

Lake Sämtiser is unique because it has no visible surface outflow; its water flows underground into the Rhine Valley. This characteristic means its water level can fluctuate significantly, and in very hot summers, it can even almost dry out. Despite this, it remains a beautiful spot for nature lovers.