We swapped our sneakers for hiking boots and headed to the Lucerne-Lake Lucerne Region, following in the footsteps of William Tell, escaping the summer heat, and experiencing Switzerland from above. The climb and the sweat? Absolutely worth it.

In our article, we’ll take you on a short journey between the majestic mountains, serene lakes, and the charming city of Lucerne.

The mountain is calling and we must go

Our tour begins with the third section of the Tell Trail, arguably the most famous long-distance hiking route in Switzerland. It’s a true highlight for passionate hikers but is also accessible to all levels, thanks to the many cable cars and shortcut options available.

We start in the sleepy village of Brunnen, where we take the Urmi cable car to gain some altitude and catch our first glimpse of the sparkling Lake Lucerne. From there, we hike over the Gätterli Pass to Rigi-Kaltbad, then take the cable car to Vitznau and continue by boat to Lucerne.

The ever-changing panoramic views of the mountains, lakes, and valleys are not only breathtaking but also feel legendary – and for good reason. The entire trail is dedicated to the freedom fighter William Tell and his story, later immortalized by the poet Friedrich Schiller in his famous play.

Tell me: All about Tell.

Legend has it that the bailiff of the time, Gessler, had the so-called „Gessler hat“ erected – a hat that anyone passing by had to salute as a sign of submission. But William Tell refused, whereupon the bailiff ordered him to shoot an apple off his own son’s head with his crossbow as punishment.

Tell reluctantly agreed and, fortunately, hit the apple. However, the second arrow in his hand made the bailiff suspicious. Tell explained that it would have been for the bailiff if the first arrow had harmed his son. This was enough reason for the bailiff to imprison Tell for life and transport him by ship to Küssnacht Castle.

During the crossing, a storm broke out, giving Tell the chance to escape. He fled along the steep face of the Axen over a rocky ledge (today’s Tellsplatte) and across the mountains towards Küssnacht, where he shot the bailiff and initiated the country’s fight for freedom.

Today, Tell is still considered a national hero and stands for unbridled freedom – a sentiment echoed in the 156 kilometers of hiking, 7,126 meters of altitude, 6 mountains, and 11 lakes along the trail.

A panoramic hike that can really be SEEN: The 4-lake hike in Engelberg.

Our journey continues by train from Lucerne to Engelberg, where the Titlis Railway takes us up to the first of four mountain lakes: Lake Trübsee. Various paths lead us across blooming summer mountain meadows, past Engstlen Lake, Tannensee Lake, and Melchsee Lake.

As we take in the views, one thing becomes clear: paradise doesn’t always have to be tropical! Lake Tannen, in particular, with its shimmering turquoise-blue color, rivals even the Caribbean. It’s easy to linger here. Along the way, we discover several barbecue sites, with wood provided. Camping above the tree line is allowed in Switzerland, and dogs are more than welcome.

What we especially love is that mountain experiences in Switzerland are accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a passionate long-distance hiker, summit seeker, paraglider, young family, or an older hiking group, there are options for all levels to enjoy the scenery – thanks to the many cable cars and easier routes.

And that? We think it’s great. More about the 4-lake hike here.

Climb up first and then arrive: At the Frutt Mountain Resort.

Whoever thinks you have to forgo comfort in the mountains is mistaken! At the Frutt Mountain Resort, mountain flair and comfort come together seamlessly. We realize this the moment we step into reception – sweaty and slightly red-faced – only to be greeted warmly with a refreshing drink and a cheerful „Now you’ve made it!“

At a proud 1,920 meters, there’s no need to compromise on quality. It’s not either/or, but both/and: hiking on the high plateau & wellness at an award-winning level, pure nature & spacious, modern rooms, traditional alpine feeling & creative culinary delights.

It’s the perfect reward for a strenuous tour – like ours – to treat yourself and your tired legs to something special. It’s also the ideal starting point for day trips, short hikes, and walks around the nearby Melchsee.

More about this special kind of alpine resort: here.

Life is better in the mountains

And we wholeheartedly agree! We had an amazing time and are convinced that mountain experiences truly caress the soul. Looking at the snow-capped Swiss giants fills you with happiness, while simultaneously reminding you of how small you are – yet, miraculously, part of something much bigger.

By the way, if you want to enjoy your mountain adventure with even more ease, we highly recommend the tour operator Eurotrek. They offer daily luggage service, tour planning, and detailed travel documents.

With that in mind, Berg Heil!