Lake Fählen is located between the steep rock cliffs of Widderalpstöcke and surrounded by the peaks of Hundstein, Altmann, Saxerfirst, and Kreuzberge, Fählensee (also known as Falensee) is a stunning alpine lake in the Alpstein region of Appenzell, Switzerland.
This nearly black lake is a hidden gem embedded in a dramatic landscape, offering a constantly changing of reflections, which is really fascinating. In this blog we will inform you about how to get to Fählensee and what to expect during your day exploring this place!
Why Visit Fählensee?
Natural Beauty
The Fählensee is renowned for its serene and picturesque environment. The lake’s waters are dark and reflective, creating stunning scenes against the backdrop of cliffs and towering peaks. You can’t stop taking pictures of the lush greenery and the landscape that’s totally different during each season.
Outdoor Activities
- Hiking: A well-maintained trail runs along the northern shore of the lake, providing stunning views and a peaceful hiking experience. The hike from Brülisau to Fählensee took us around 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it accessible for most hikers.
- Fishing: The lake is a popular spot for fishermen hoping to catch some local fish.
- Swimming in lake Fählen: Yes, you can go for a swim in lake Fählensee. During the warmer days of summer, it’s amazing to take a dip in the water, to cool down. Perfect refreshment after a warm hike! We loved it. The waters reach 18°C, so yes quite chilly.
- Photography: The unique reflections and natural beauty make it a paradise for photographers. Definitely make a selfie to later post on instagram.
Stay at the Bollenwees Hut
Located right by the lake, the Bollenwees Mountain Hut is a popular destination for hikers, mountaineers, and fishermen. The hut offers not only phenomenal views but also delicious Swiss cuisine, with their Rösti being a must-try after a two-hour hike.
Staying overnight at Bollenwees allows you to fully enjoy the tranquility of Fählensee and explore the surrounding area. Read more about the hut here.
How to Get to Fählensee?
By Public Transportation or Car
- From St. Gallen/Appenzell: Take a train or postbus to Brülisau.
- From Brülisau: Follow the hiking trail leading to Fählensee, which takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Hiking Routes (definitely checkout all possible routes on the Komoot website, including maps.
There are three routes to reach lake Fählensee, we will describe them below:
- Direct Route from Brülisau:
- Start: Brülisau Bus Station
- Route: Hike past Samtisarsee, another beautiful alpine lake, and continue to Bollenwees and Fählensee.
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Hoher Kasten to Saxer Lücke Route:
- Start: Hoher Kasten
- Route: Hike along the ridge to Saxer Lücke, then descend to Bollenwees before reaching Fählensee.
- Duration: Full day
- Three Lakes Hike:
- Start: Wasserauen
- Route: Trek from Wasserauen to Seealpsee, up to Meglisalp, and over to Bollenwees and Fählensee.
- Duration: Full day
Tips for Visiting Fählensee
- The Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Fählensee is late spring to early autumn for the best weather and trail conditions.
- Overnight Stay: Definitely consider staying at Bollenwees to enjoy the sunset alpenglow and avoid hiking back in the dark.
- Family Friendly: Suitable for children aged 6 and above.
- Pack your backpacks: with rain protection and enough drinks and snacks, we enjoyed a picnic here.
Conclusion
The Fahlensee is a magical place to visit. Beautiful hiking trails lead you to the lake. The hike we inform you about in this blog post takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. The views during the hike are breathtaking and the reward is so worth it.
On warmer summer days, enjoy a fresh swim in the lake. Also take picnic equipment with you to enjoy a full day at this place. We hope you have a lovely time exploring and enjoying everything this place has to offer.
