Waldhütte Kindhausen

Waldhütte Kindhausen sits at 1,500m in the Appenzell Alps, roughly 90 minutes' walk from Säntis. The hut is accessible via the Säntis cable car from Schwägalp, then a south-facing descent through mixed forest. Come in from the north via the ridge from Säntis if you prefer a full mountain day. The setting is quiet and pastoral rather than dramatic—you're in working alpine meadows, not high peaks.

The hut sleeps 40 across simple dormitories. Meals are available on request; bring your own food or order in advance. Flush toilets work year-round. Water is not piped to the hut—collect it from the spring 50m downhill or melt snow in winter. The hut is open weekends only from October to May, and daily June through September. Expect basic mountain hospitality: this is a working farm building, not a resort hut. The location suits hikers doing day walks across the Appenzell Alps or using it as a base for exploring the Säntis massif.

Contact the hut directly by email to check availability and arrange meals. Summer weekends, especially July and August, fill quickly. Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead. Winter weekends are quieter but confirm opening before you travel.