Engstlensee - Image 1
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Engstlensee

4.8
·185 reviews·Innertkirchen, Switzerland

A stunning alpine lake in Switzerland with vibrant turquoise waters, surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for hiking and fishing.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Engstlensee - Image 1

Engstlensee

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning alpine lake in Switzerland with vibrant turquoise waters, surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for hiking and fishing.

4.8
(185 reviews)

"Fabulous lake in Swiss Alps with turquoise water, magnificent and breathtaking views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Engstlensee Lake

Engstlensee Lake

Central Obwalden

Stunning turquoise alpine lake surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for serene walks and fishing.

4-Lakes Hike

4-Lakes Hike

Central Switzerland

A scenic trail connecting Melchsee, Tannensee, Engstlensee, and Trübsee, offering diverse alpine landscapes.

Trout Fishing

Trout Fishing

Engstlensee

A popular spot for anglers to cast a line in the clear, fish-filled waters of the mountain lake.

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Planning Your Visit

Access & Fees

Reaching Engstlensee involves a drive up a mountain pass, which may have an entry or overnight fee. Be prepared for potentially unfriendly toll keepers, especially if arriving early. Booking transport in advance is recommended for non-regular bus routes.

Best Footwear & Timing

Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for exploring the trails around the lake. While beautiful year-round, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds, as weekends can get busy with hikers and anglers.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn
Why
Beautiful fall colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mit wem musst du zu diesem See? 🌞🏔️ 📍Ort Engstlensee ✅ Speichere diesen Post für deine Bucket List! 🗺️ #reiseinspiration #reiselust #schweiz #minivlog #engstlensee
reisenmitim
108 likes • 4.2K 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:

🇨🇭Engstlensee - Switzerland 🇨🇭 #switzerland #engstlensee #obwalden
kejtswisstravel
99 likes • 1.6K views
📍 Engstlensee, Switzerland 🇨🇭 Explore one of the most beautiful places on earth ➡️ Switzerland 🇨🇭 #engstlensee #meiringen #engelberg #bern #switzerland #myswizzy #swissalps #swisstravel #swissbeauty #swissmountains #swisslake credits 📽 @aventouro
myswizzy
222 likes • 13.5K views

🎣 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:

4 места в ШВЕЙЦАРИИ 📍Во все места вы можете из большого города рядом — Meiringen, у него хорошее сообщение с Interlaken и Luzern. Ночевали как раз именно в этом городе. ▫️Долина Engstlental и озеро Engstlensee Абсолютно безлюдное место, мое открытие еще 2023 года; Сюда попасть можно, забронировав заранее место в автобусе, так как это нерегулярный рейс. Резервация и вся информация ТУТ — Reservati...
margaritkaaa
6.8K likes • 162.9K views

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

4.8
(185 reviews)

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

Magnificent turquoise water
Breathtaking mountain views
Easy hiking paths

What People Dislike

Can be busy on weekends
Unfriendly pass keepers

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. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is a large parking area located nearby the lake, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

Yes, the mountain pass leading to Engstlensee may have an entry or overnight fee. Be prepared for this when planning your journey. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Engstlensee is ideal for hiking, enjoying the scenic beauty, and trout fishing. The surrounding mountains offer more challenging hiking routes as well. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

The lake is known for its beautiful, turquoise, and emerald-colored water, offering a stunning visual contrast with the surrounding mountains. Reddit+1

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. Instagram

You'll likely encounter cows with bells around their necks, adding a charming auditory element to the mountain landscape. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

Absolutely. The combination of the vibrant lake, rugged peaks, and potentially changing weather conditions provides endless opportunities for stunning landscape photography. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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

Engstlensee offers a relatively easy hike along the lake's edge, making it manageable for families with younger children. The stunning turquoise water and the chance to see cows with bells can be captivating for kids. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities might be limited. Reddit+1

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. Instagram

🎣 Anglers and Nature Lovers

For trout fishing enthusiasts, Engstlensee is a must-visit. The lake's clear waters are known for abundant trout, offering a peaceful and scenic spot to cast your line. Remember to secure the necessary fishing permits and adhere to local regulations to ensure a sustainable experience. Reddit

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Photographers

Engstlensee is a paradise for hikers, offering everything from gentle lakeside strolls to more challenging mountain treks like the 4-Lakes Hike. The diverse trails cater to various fitness levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the stunning alpine landscapes. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The 4-Lakes Hike: An Alpine Adventure

The 4-Lakes Hike (4-Seen-Wanderung) is a popular multi-lake trail in Central Switzerland that includes Engstlensee. This route typically connects Melchsee, Tannensee, Engstlensee, and Trübsee, offering a diverse and rewarding hiking experience. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the alpine scenery, passing by crystal-clear lakes and enjoying panoramic mountain views. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Engstlensee: A Haven for Anglers

Engstlensee is renowned among anglers for its excellent trout fishing opportunities. The lake's pristine, turquoise waters are teeming with fish, making it a sought-after destination for those looking to cast a line in a breathtaking natural setting. The accessibility from a nearby parking area adds to its appeal for fishing enthusiasts. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Navigating the Mountain Pass and Access

Accessing Engstlensee involves driving up a mountain pass, which can be an adventure in itself with its winding roads and dramatic vistas. However, visitors should be aware that there might be an entry or overnight fee associated with this route. Some travelers have reported less-than-pleasant interactions with the pass keepers, particularly if arriving very early in the morning. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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