An ad on Swiss television features three quaint locals who refuse to let a guest from Germany have the recipe for Appenzell cheese. The three chaps could easily sit on one of the park benches around here or in front of one of the handsome farmhouses on the route between Trogen and Appenzell – and you would never know it.

While the Säntis mountain comes closer and closer on the horizon, looking more and more magnificent, you are coasting along the Panorama Bike route through the peaceful forests and fields of this area. There are few single trails. There is more to life that counts.

Stopping at one of the old inns in the area and listening in on the locals is well worth your time. The Swiss German dialect in this region is so striking that even many Swiss can barely understand it. The stage ends in the exceptionally attractive village centre of Appenzell with its multi-coloured homes, artfully decorated and decked out with lots of flowers.