Kulturspur Appenzellerland, Stage 2/6

From Schwellbrunn, you will continue over the rolling hills into the secluded confines of the Wissbach Gorge, taking in a waterfall, a dam and a covered wooden stairway. After reaching the historic settlement of Schwänberg, the oldest in the canton, the route climbs steeply up to the ruins of Rosenburg Castle. Bustling Herisau is your final destination.

From the Schwellbrunn, Dorf bus stop, the route leads through the village and past the Reformed church. Right from the start, it climbs across meadows and pastures to the highest point at around 980 metres. The houses are left behind, and views open up across the rolling countryside of Appenzellerland. Open hilltops and stretches of woodland then alternate.

The yellow-waymarked hiking trail now runs mostly downhill, with occasional gentle ascents and descents. About halfway along, there is a fire pit directly beside the route. Shortly afterwards, the trail reaches Stüdliweiher and follows the water's edge. Beyond the pond, it crosses meadows and passes the first houses on the way to Schwänberg.

In the final third, the route enters the forest once more. Set slightly off the trail on Ramsenstock are the ruins of Rosenburg, also known as Ramsenburg. The houses then become more closely spaced, and the route passes the Engel inn before entering Herisau. From the Reformed church, it is only a few more steps to the destination near the Herisau, Obstmarkt bus stop.