There is certainly no shortage of lakes in Switzerland, and neither are the trails leading to them. This route crosses three cantons and connects four mountain lakes with a “red line”. Each of them is different, making the hike certainly not monotonous.
Trübsee lake and the Titlis summit
To begin with, Lake Trübsee in the canton of Nidwalden, which we reached by gondola lift from Engelberg. From here you have a view of the well-known Titlis mountain (3’238m), at the foot of which there is a small glacier.
The popularity of this mountain is mainly due to the attractions offered to visitors. Firstly, there is the rotating cable car, which takes passengers up to an altitude of over 3’000m. Secondly, there is a suspension bridge (Titlis Cliff Walk) and an ice cave on the mountain. However, these are attractions for a completely different trip.
There are walking paths at Trübsee Lake (also with a pram), as well as barbecue areas and a playground. And you can go boating on the blue lake.
Jochpass and further lakes
After Trübsee, the trail continues to the Jochpass. This is the most difficult part of the route with an ascent of over 500 metres. Further on, it is much easier and without major ascents.
The next Engstlensee lake is located in the canton of Bern. It is approached via a zigzag path which runs downhill from the Jochpass.
As you continue walking, you pass the historic Engstlenalp Hotel, which dates back to 1892. Apparently, the fourth generation is already running this picturesque guest house. And the hustle and bustle on the restaurant terrace testifies to the fact that the guests are still coming.
After Engstlenalp, the trail climbs up a rocky shelf. From a distance, it looks impressive. But don’t be afraid of huge precipices, as the path is wide, paved and additionally secured with ropes. And at the top you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Gentel valley.
Lake Tannensee and the Alpine cheese factory
Shortly afterwards, you reach Lake Tannensee, the highest lake on the route (1’975 m above sea level). This also marks the entrance to the Obwalden canton.
At the lake, there is a mountain inn and an alpine cheese factory, where cheese, butter and yoghurt are still made in the traditional way. A speciality is Sbrinz cheese, made from the milk of cows that pluck the grass in the Tannalp pastures of Melchsee-Frutt.
After a two-kilometre walk along the shores of Lake Tannensee, you reach the last point on this route – Lake Melchsee. It is undoubtedly associated with a small old chapel and a magnificent mountain panorama.
From Melchsee-Frutt, a gondola lift takes you down to Stöckalp, from where the bus departs.
