Schwende is a small village between Appenzell and Wasserauen, nestled in the gently rolling hills of the Appenzell pre-Alps. The village has no particular tourist focus but presents a typical picture of the Appenzell region: well-kept farmhouses, colourfully painted houses, cows in the meadows and a stillness that makes a pleasant contrast to more touristy places.

Schwende is a through-point on the route from Appenzell to Wasserauen and the Seealpsee. The village is ideal for quiet walks in the hilly landscape and as a starting point for hikes to the nearby alps. The surroundings are among the finest low-lying landscapes in eastern Switzerland, especially in spring when the apple trees are in blossom.

Schwende is reachable by Appenzellerbahn (stop Schwende-Rüte) from Appenzell in just a few minutes. By car, take the cantonal road from Appenzell towards Wasserauen. Parking in the village.