Gundalpe

Gundalpe sits at 1502m in the Säntis massif region of northeastern Switzerland. The hut is accessible from Urnäsch by a hiking trail that takes around 2 hours. From Appenzell, expect 3.5 hours on foot. You can also approach via the Säntis ridge if you're coming from higher elevations. The location works well as a base for ridge traverses and day hikes across the Appenzell Alps.
The hut holds 31 beds split between shared dormitories. The SAC manages the facility and serves meals daily including hearty evening dinners and packed lunches on request. The hut has basic facilities with toilets and cold water; note that there are no showers. Winter access is unpredictable due to snow and exposure on the approach, so the hut operates reliably only from May through October. A simple sleeping bag or liner is standard. The restaurant area handles meals for both overnight guests and day visitors stopping by on longer hikes.
Phone ahead to book your bed, especially for weekends or July–August. Contact the hut directly for current numbers and opening dates. Weekends fill quickly May through September, so book at least 2–3 weeks ahead. Midweek slots are usually available on shorter notice. The hut is a solid overnight option if you're linking ridges or doing multi-day traverses in the region.