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For three days we walk through this fascinating landscape, whose rock formations are a story in themselves. The climbs are steep, so we adjust our pace to make each stage comfortably manageable.
One highlight is the famous Fählensee, where we can take a refreshing dip before or after our stop at the Bollenwees (so pack your swimming things if you fancy it). The next day brings another steep climb, followed by an equally steep descent to the next lake, where we stop for lunch at a good restaurant. We will need the calories for the following climb, which has a touch of adventure about it.
We spend the night at the Meglisalp, an almost mystical spot, and gather our strength over a good dinner for the ascent of the Säntis – the high point of the tour, in every sense.
Day one
7 km4.5 hrs1,260 m190 m
We have 1,250 metres to climb, but by taking it slowly, keeping the pace in check – and with the first stretch in the woods – it goes surprisingly well. From the Saxer Lücke there is a superb view of the Kreuzberge, a distinctive little range that rises straight out of the meadows, Dolomites-style. It brings back memories of my first climbing trips. The Bollenwees is rather touristy, but with its wonderful view of the Fählensee – and staff who are always friendly and cheerful – it is a fine place to stop and refuel.
Day two
9.6 km5 hrs860 m890 m
After breakfast at the friendly, family-run Hundstein hut (SAC), we set off down to Chalberweid, where the next steep climb begins. There is noticeably less ascent than yesterday, which lifts our spirits. Climbing an ordinary footpath between rock walls, with fascinating perspectives at every turn, makes up for all the effort. On the descent, too, we take our time and reach for our poles. Lunch at the restaurant down by the Seealpsee does us good and sets us up for the direct climb to the Meglisalp – an exciting stretch of path.
Day three
4.8 km3.5 hrs970 m20 m
The Meglisalp has a special aura. It is not just the charming chapel; it is the whole of this little settlement. From here we set off on the last and shortest stage of the tour. If we are an adventurous bunch, we go ‘off-road’ for a while and find out what pathless terrain feels like. At the Wagenlücke the panorama is once again highly photogenic. Shortly before the Säntis we need our hands again; parts of the path are fitted with steel cables. At the top it becomes clear why the Säntis, the highest peak in north-eastern Switzerland, is famous for its panorama. Fortunately the new cable car is finished, so we can float down to the Schwägalp.
Prepare for your hike
What to bring
Rucksack for three days
Mountain boots with ankle support and good grip
Waterproof, windproof and warm layers (hat, gloves)
Sunglasses, sun hat, sun cream
Trekking poles, as you prefer
Food
Lunch and plenty to drink for the first day, plus your own snacks for the whole tour
On day two we have lunch at a restaurant, on day three on the Säntis
Luggage
Personal change of clothes (including a dry shirt for the trail)
Toiletries; a (silk) sleeping-bag liner for the hut is compulsory
CHF 580
per person
Included
Planning, organisation and three days of guiding by Wander-Erlebnis.ch
Overnight stays with half board at the SAC hut and on the Meglisalp
Price varies with group size, SAC membership and choice of room on the Meglisalp
Cable car down from the Säntis to the Schwägalp
Not included
Lunch on days two and three, other food and drink along the way
