Switzerland -

“  MOUNTAINS ~ SWISS COUNTRYSIDE ~ ALPSTEIN. ”

MNH ~ Miniature Sheet !

With its distinctive peaks and idyllic mountain lakes, the Alpstein is one of the most popular excursion destinations in the country. Swiss Post is dedicating a miniature sheet to this typical Swiss countryside in the Appenzell Alps.

The Alpstein Massif, which belongs to the Cantons of Appenzell Innerrhoden, Appenzell Ausserrhoden and St Gallen, is not among the highest Alpine peaks, yet none- the-less towers dramatically above the surrounding landscape, creating an extremely impressive effect.

The Säntis reigns over them all. Its peak is “only” 2,502 metres above sea level, but it forms a striking landmark. On a clear day, it can even be seen from the Black Forest. By the same token, no less than six countries are visible from the Säntis: Liechtenstein, Germany, Austria, Italy and France, in addition to Switzerland itself.

Of the three mountain lakes in the region, the Sämtisersee, the Fählensee and the Seealpsee, only the third has an out f above the ground. Most of the water trickles away through cracks, cavities and sinkholes in the limestone massif.

The Seealpsee, which is pictured on the miniature sheet, sits at 1,141 metres above sea level and is a popular destination for day trippers and photographers alike.

Year: 2018.