Engelberg – paradise on your doorstep
The weekend is just around the corner and the weather forecast for the whole of Switzerland is fantastic. High temperatures and sunshine – ideal conditions for a spontaneous excursion.
The first thing I automatically think of is a youth hostel by the lake. But I can’t find a room for myself and my companion at such short notice. I therefore have to study which youth hostel is otherwise suitable for two adults and a 3-year-old.
Due to a relatively short journey from Zurich, you can choose from the mountain youth hostels in Grindelwald, Valbella and Engelberg. Finally, Engelberg impresses us with the family-friendly Brunni hiking area.
Hiking instead of swimming – the anticipation of the mountain air is great. © Katrin Lippik
We set off for Central Switzerland on Saturday morning. After just over an hour, we reach Engelberg Youth Hostel.
Isabel, the Hostel Manager, has been informed about our early arrival and has already provided us with an envelope with keys and brochures about the region. After moving into our room, getting changed and applying sunscreen, we head for the Brunni mountain lifts (about 20 minutes on foot).
We take the aerial cableway to Ristis and then continue on the chairlift to the Brunni hut.
There we are welcomed by Lake Härzli – a heart-shaped lake – with a 220-metre barefoot trail/tickle trail that enthuses many children.
For young and old alike – the family-friendly Brunni hiking area has something for everyone. © Katrin Lippik
Surprise at lunchtime
Equipped with a children’s carrier rucksack, our first leg begins. We pass the paragliding starting point and enjoy a breathtaking view of the mountains all along the way. Our destination is the Berglodge Restaurant Ristis, which we reach after about 45 minutes. We eat something there and, to our surprise, we are entertained by Globi with an accordion. This can be found on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays around the Ristis. Afterwards, we head to the Alpine playground, which makes children’s pulses race. Climbing wall, trampoline, see-saw, slides, water world, swings and many other playground equipment offer plenty of entertainment for children, and adults can relax in the seating areas overlooking the surrounding mountains.
Oh, and when you visit Globi, childhood memories come to life. © Katrin Lippik
Relaxed return journey and a cosy end
The journey continues into the valley for about one more hour. The trail passes over cow meadows and is a little steeper. We then arrive exhausted at the youth hostel, where in the meantime some families have arrived and are playing in the garden.
After having a shower, we are drawn to town for dinner. Afterwards, when our little girl is already in bed, we end the evening with a glass of wine on the balcony of the youth hostel.
Engelberg’s breathtaking natural surroundings are the perfect place to unwind from everyday life. © Katrin Lippik
The long day in the sun and the fresh mountain air at night let us sleep fantastically, and we look forward to the breakfast buffet in the morning.
After checking out, we head back home, but make a stop at Lake Zug. There we spend another great summer’s day at Hünenberg lido.
Hiking, playing, enjoying ourselves and swimming – lots of activities in a short space of time that therefore doesn’t feel so short.
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