Engstlensee
A stunning alpine lake in Switzerland with vibrant turquoise waters, surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for hiking and fishing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Engstlensee
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning alpine lake in Switzerland with vibrant turquoise waters, surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for hiking and fishing.
"Fabulous lake in Swiss Alps with turquoise water, magnificent and breathtaking views."
🚗 Mountain Pass Fee
Be aware of potential entry/overnight fees for the mountain pass leading to the lake. :moneybag:
🥾 Hiking Boots Recommended
Wear comfortable hiking shoes for exploring the trails around the lake and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Engstlensee Lake
Central Obwalden
Stunning turquoise alpine lake surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for serene walks and fishing.
4-Lakes Hike
Central Switzerland
A scenic trail connecting Melchsee, Tannensee, Engstlensee, and Trübsee, offering diverse alpine landscapes.
Trout Fishing
Engstlensee
A popular spot for anglers to cast a line in the clear, fish-filled waters of the mountain lake.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Access & Fees
Best Footwear & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Mountain Pass Fee
Be aware of potential entry/overnight fees for the mountain pass leading to the lake. :moneybag:
🥾 Hiking Boots Recommended
Wear comfortable hiking shoes for exploring the trails around the lake and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:
🎣 Angler's Paradise
Engstlensee is a prime spot for trout fishing; bring your gear if you enjoy angling. :fishingpoleand_வத:
📸 Breathtaking Views
The turquoise water and mountain scenery offer incredible photo opportunities. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Mountain Pass Fee
Be aware of potential entry/overnight fees for the mountain pass leading to the lake. :moneybag:
🥾 Hiking Boots Recommended
Wear comfortable hiking shoes for exploring the trails around the lake and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:
🎣 Angler's Paradise
Engstlensee is a prime spot for trout fishing; bring your gear if you enjoy angling. :fishingpoleand_வத:
📸 Breathtaking Views
The turquoise water and mountain scenery offer incredible photo opportunities. :camera:
🔔 Hear the Cowbells
Enjoy the unique soundtrack of cowbells ringing in the mountains during your visit. :bell:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Engstlensee's magnificent turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain views, calling it a truly beautiful and serene alpine lake. While some find it busy on weekends, the easy hiking paths and excellent fishing opportunities make it a worthwhile destination for nature lovers and anglers alike.
"Easy hike, but to busy for my likings but okay it was weekend. Easy hike from the parking you can walk close to the water but a lot of fishers will be on the edge as well. Beautiful view, definitely worth your time. You can hike up as well if you like a bigger round. Don't forget to stop on the way before you get to the parking to enjoy the lil mountain waterfalls :)"
Amber Drubbel
"Very nice mountain lake with a lot of walking possibilities. Large parking nearby. To get here you do have to pay entry/overnight sleeping fee. The mountain pass keeper was unfriendly because we came early in the morning, no one present and when leaving the area he supposedly believed we would not pay for our visit."
Arnaud S
"A fabulous lake in Swiss Alps with turquoise water. It is located at an elevation of 1850m not far away from mount Titlis. We had a really great time hiking around the lake. There are lots of cows with bells on their necks, so you will hear a constant ringing in the mountains."
Khrystyna Peryk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Engstlensee is accessible by car via a mountain pass, which may have an entry fee. Public transport options exist, but booking bus routes in advance is advised as they may not be regular. Some visitors mention the drive itself is an unbelievable experience.
Yes, there is a large parking area located nearby the lake, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Engstlensee is a popular destination for hikers, with various trails offering beautiful views. The 4-Lakes Hike is a notable route that passes by Engstlensee.
Meiringen is a nearby town with good connections. From Meiringen, you can drive or potentially take a bus towards Engstlensee, enjoying the scenic mountain route.
Yes, the mountain pass leading to Engstlensee may have an entry or overnight fee. Be prepared for this when planning your journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the lake itself is a natural attraction, there might be an entry or overnight sleeping fee associated with accessing the area via the mountain pass.
Engstlensee is an outdoor natural attraction, so it is generally accessible year-round. However, access via the mountain pass might be subject to seasonal conditions or specific operating hours for any associated services.
For general access to the lake and hiking trails, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to use specific transport services or stay overnight, it's advisable to check and book in advance.
As a natural reserve and popular recreational area, visitors are expected to respect the environment. Specific restrictions might apply to fishing or overnight stays, so it's good to check local regulations.
The exact fee for the mountain pass can vary. It's best to inquire locally or check for signage at the pass entrance. Some visitors have reported encountering unfriendly staff regarding payment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Engstlensee is ideal for hiking, enjoying the scenic beauty, and trout fishing. The surrounding mountains offer more challenging hiking routes as well.
Yes, there are easy walking paths close to the water's edge, making it accessible for a leisurely stroll. For a more extensive experience, longer round hikes are also available.
The lake is known for its beautiful, turquoise, and emerald-colored water, offering a stunning visual contrast with the surrounding mountains.
While the water is inviting, swimming in Engstlensee might be very cold due to its alpine location. It's primarily known for its beauty and fishing rather than swimming.
You'll likely encounter cows with bells around their necks, adding a charming auditory element to the mountain landscape.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire area offers magnificent views. Focus on capturing the turquoise lake against the backdrop of the mountains, especially during golden hour for dramatic lighting.
Absolutely. The combination of the vibrant lake, rugged peaks, and potentially changing weather conditions provides endless opportunities for stunning landscape photography.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the most beautiful light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the colors of the lake and mountains.
Drone usage regulations can vary by region in Switzerland. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over Engstlensee or the surrounding nature reserve.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating mountain peaks or wildlife. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the 4-Lakes Hike for a longer adventure, but be prepared for varying terrain and distances. For a more relaxed experience, focus on the accessible paths around Engstlensee itself. The drive up the mountain pass can also be an exciting part of the journey for children, offering new sights and sounds.
🎣 Anglers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will be captivated by the breathtaking scenery. The vibrant lake, surrounded by majestic peaks, provides a serene environment for photography, contemplation, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the Swiss Alps. The sound of cowbells adds an authentic touch to the natural soundscape.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Photographers
Photographers will find endless inspiration here. The vivid turquoise water, dramatic mountain backdrops, and the play of light throughout the day create postcard-perfect scenes. Aim for golden hour for the most magical shots, and don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 4-Lakes Hike: An Alpine Adventure
This hike is often done as a point-to-point journey, meaning you'll need to arrange transportation to get back to your starting point. Some visitors use two cars, leaving one at the destination, while others explore public transport options. The trail offers a good mix of terrain, suitable for moderately fit hikers, and is particularly stunning during the summer and autumn months.
Along the way, you'll experience the unique charm of the Swiss Alps, from lush meadows to rocky outcrops. The constant ringing of cowbells adds to the authentic alpine atmosphere, making the hike a truly sensory experience. Remember to pack appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots and layers of clothing, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
Engstlensee: A Haven for Anglers
When planning your fishing trip, be sure to check the local regulations regarding fishing licenses, permitted fishing methods, and catch limits. These rules are in place to ensure the sustainability of the fish population and the health of the lake ecosystem. While the lake is beautiful, remember that it's an alpine environment, so conditions can be cool even in summer.
Many visitors combine their fishing excursions with leisurely walks around the lake or longer hikes in the surrounding mountains. The serene environment of Engstlensee provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxing day spent pursuing your passion for angling amidst stunning Swiss scenery.
Navigating the Mountain Pass and Access
For those relying on public transport, it's crucial to research and book bus routes in advance. These services might not be as frequent as in more populated areas, and ensuring your transport is secured will prevent potential disappointment. The journey, whether by car or bus, offers spectacular views, making the travel part of the overall experience.
It's also worth noting that the road conditions can be affected by weather, especially outside of the peak summer season. Always check local advisories for road status before you set off. The effort to reach Engstlensee is widely considered worthwhile for the unparalleled beauty that awaits.


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