I have had the desire to photograph the picturesque Seealpsee in Appenzellerland for quite a long time.
That morning it was finally time to visit the mountain lake at 1,141 meters in Switzerland. The idyllic location, the clear water and two mountain inns make Seealpsee one of the most popular excursion destinations and one of the most beautiful photo spots in the Alpstein.
When I go to new photo spots and before sunrise, I usually explore the area at least the day before. Unfortunately I didn't have the opportunity to do so this weekend, but that wasn't a problem at all. If you look at the map, you can't miss the Seealpsee starting from the Wasserauen car park, even in the deepest darkness. On the one hand, the sound of the mountain stream accompanies you the whole time and on the other hand, the steep concrete road leads straight to the lake.
At blue hour on the shores of Seealpsee
Four o'clock in the morning, only darkness around me, but the increased adrenaline level is more due to the strenuous and sweaty climb. About an hour and a few drinking breaks later, I finally reach the photo object of desire.
Although I'm there far too early, I can still go to a spot of my choice at my leisure. I stay there, fascinated by this idyllic picture-book landscape, from the blue hour until the first rays of sun hit the mountain ridges of the Alpstein Mountains. This breathtaking natural spectacle is worth every calorie burned.
The first rays of sun hit the mountain ridges of the Alpstein Mountains
Now the next interesting part of my photo tour begins: the circular hike around the lake with great views to the Säntis. The area is absolutely beautiful and there is so much more to photograph and explore. It almost leaves you speechless when you stand at Seealpsee and let your gaze wander over the impressive mountain panorama.
It almost leaves you speechless when you stand on the shore of Lake Seealpsee
Lush, green alpine meadows on the shore nestle against striking rock formations that surround the lake.
The peaks of the Alpstein and Säntis are reflected on the crystal-clear surface of the clean water when they are not surrounded by clouds.
The Säntis is 2501.9 m above sea level. M. the highest mountain in the Alpstein
Halfway around the lake you can buy fresh cheese at the Seealpkäserei. In the summer months from June to August, the Seealp is managed by several dairymen. During this time, cows, goats and alpine pigs have their happy home up here.
Halfway around the lake you can buy fresh cheese at the Seealpkäserei
I admire and study the beautiful reflections and enjoy for a long time the beautiful light that floods the photogenic landscape. What a fantastic morning in Eastern Switzerland!
I admire and study the beautiful reflections for a long time
A view of the eastern shore of the lake
The cows grazing peacefully in the meadows are also a nice distraction and an extremely good reason for numerous photo and breather breaks.
The Äscher inn, which has become known worldwide through “National Geographic”, and the Wildkirchlihöhlen are located approx. 500 m above Seealpsee and are also a destination worth seeing after an approx. 1.5 hour mountain hike.
In an extremely daring construction method, the pub was glued to the foot of a 100 meter high vertical ledge of rock.
However, I will save this highlight for my next visit to Appenzellerland.
Of course, on a sunny summer weekend you are anything but alone up here.
Seealpsee is a popular destination for hiking, barbecuing, boating and swimming.
Nevertheless, I find it very tranquil here because there is a relaxed and quiet atmosphere.
I enjoy a hearty breakfast in the open air in the beer garden of the Seealpsee mountain inn and then make my way back strengthened and satisfied.
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