Lake Bannalp (Bannalpsee in German) has become my go-to retreat when I need to recharge. Nestled high above the Engelberg Valley at 1,600 meters, this Swiss mountain lake feels like a world away from the everyday rush. Among the many mountain lakes in Switzerland, Lake Bannalp stands out as a true hidden gem—an adventure that takes you far off the beaten tourist track. Despite its breathtaking beauty, this spot remains an insider tip, perfect for those seeking tranquility and escape.
The journey to Lake Bannalp is an adventure in itself, and as a day trip from Zurich or Lucerne, it’s incredibly rewarding. The cable car ride up from Oberrickenbach offers panoramic views over the Engelberg Valley, setting the stage for what feels like a private alpine getaway. When you arrive, the sight of crystal-clear water reflecting the rugged peaks and lush green meadows feels like stepping into a postcard.
What I love most is how untouched and peaceful it remains, even during peak seasons. Whether I’m hiking scenic trails, enjoying a quiet picnic by the lake, or simply sitting on the shore soaking in the calm, Lake Bannalp gives me space to reset. It’s a place where nature reigns, a personal alpine sanctuary that recharges your spirit. If you’re searching for an off-the-beaten-track destination that combines serenity with adventure, Lake Bannalp is your answer—a timeless treasure in Central Switzerland.
How to Get to the Bannalp Valley Station in Oberrickenbach
By Public Transport
Start your journey by taking a train to Lucerne, where you’ll hop on the Zentralbahn headed toward Engelberg. When you reach Wolfenschiessen, switch to the yellow post bus. The Fell-Chrüzhütte cable car station (blue cable car) is conveniently located right next to the bus stop. If you prefer to head directly to Lake Bannalp (Bannalpsee), walk a short distance to the Fellboden cable car station (red cable car), about a 2-minute walk away, and take the cable car from there. The entire journey from Zurich to the valley cable car station typically takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes.
By Car
Drive along the A2 motorway towards Gotthard, and take the Stans-Süd exit. Follow the signs towards Engelberg, and once you reach the village of Wolfenschiessen, turn left in the direction of Oberrickenbach. As you approach the village, drive almost to the end of the road and park in the small lot next to the first cable car station you see, Fell-Chrüzhütte.
The Cable Car Ride from Oberrickenbach to Chrützhütte (Blue Cable Car)
My adventure to Bannalpsee began with a ride on the blue cable car from the Fell station up to Chrützhütte. The journey itself is short, lasting about eight minutes, but it offers stunning panoramic views along the way.
Although the cable car is scheduled to run every 30 minutes, it operates more frequently during busy times to accommodate the influx of visitors. Each cable car is small, with a capacity of only 5-8 people, making for an intimate and scenic ascent.
Hiking from Chrützhütte to Bannalp Lake
Upon arriving at the Chrützhütte mountain station, where you can also grab a bite to eat or enjoy a drink, the hike to Bannalp Lake begins. The trail, which takes about 15-20 minutes downhill, is narrow in some spots and slightly rocky, but overall, it’s an easy and enjoyable walk.
As you make your way down, the trail rewards you with breathtaking views, with the lake gradually coming into sight as you approach the final stretch. The first glimpse of Lake Bannalp, reflecting the surrounding mountains, is truly a sight to behold.
At the lake, you’ll find a charming chapel, a cozy restaurant, and a playground for children, making it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers alike.
Exploring the Circular Route Around Lake Bannalp
The 3.5 km circular trail around Bannalpsee is perfect for a leisurely hike. It takes about an hour to complete, but I found myself taking much longer as I stopped frequently to admire the stunning scenery and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
At the delta where a mountain stream flows into the lake, there are barbecue pits stocked with firewood, making it a popular spot for picnics. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself sharing the area with cows grazing in the meadows during the summer months.
For those looking to cool off after the walk, a refreshing dip in the lake is a great option. Swimming is allowed, but keep in mind that the water is often quite chilly. And if you’re up for it, the hundreds of little fish in the lake might give you a free, natural “massage” as you swim!
For Kids: Dwarf Theme Trail (Zwärgliweg)
If you’re visiting with children, the interactive Dwarf Theme Trail (Zwärgliweg) is a delightful experience. This engaging trail, which features seven stations with picture boards, narrates the enchanting story of children searching for a magic crystal, protected by friendly dwarfs. Each station offers something fun for the kids to play with, making the walk both entertaining and educational. The theme trail begins at the Chrützmatte top station and winds through different scenic spots around the lake. It’s a fun, easy walk that takes about an hour to complete.
Other Hikes in the Area: The Walenpfad Trail
For experienced hikers seeking more adventure, the Walenpfad Trail is a must-do. Renowned as one of the most beautiful high-altitude hikes in Switzerland, this diverse trail leads from Bannalp to the Brunni area above Engelberg.
The journey begins at the Chrüzhütte top station of the Bannalp cable car, at an elevation of 1,718 meters. From there, you’ll descend to Restaurant Urnerstaffel (1,693 meters) and head westward, passing the stunning Bannalpsee toward Walegg.
The trail then traverses the Walen basin, leading you across the Spissegg ridge at 1,673 meters. As you cross the western slopes of the Walenstöcke, you’ll arrive at Sädelegg, where the path continues horizontally to Brunnihütte (1,867 meters).
This challenging but rewarding hike spans approximately 10 kilometers and takes about 4 hours to complete, offering breathtaking views and a memorable experience for those up to the challenge.
The Cable Car Ride from Lake Bannalp to Fellboden (Red Cable Car)
The return journey from Bannalpsee was both different and unexpectedly interesting! Upon arriving at the Bannalpsee cable car station, conveniently located near the restaurant, I noticed a red cable car already waiting.
Initially, I assumed I’d arrived too early and would need to wait for the scheduled departure. However, two fellow hikers informed me that all we needed to do was use the service phone to contact the valley station. They were right! The operator instructed us to step into the gondola, and before I knew it, we were smoothly on our way back down, without any delay.
Cost of Visiting Lake Bannalp
A round-trip ticket for the cable cars to Bannalp Lake costs 23 CHF per adult. This ticket is valid for both the Fell-Chrüzhütte and Fellboden-Bannalpsee cable cars, offering flexibility in your travel plans.
Best Time to Visit Lake Bannalp
While Lake Bannalp is a stunning destination year-round, my favorite times to visit are during the summer and fall. In these seasons, the region bursts with vibrant colors, from the rich Alpine flora in the summer to the golden hues of autumn.
However, winter at Bannalp is equally enchanting, offering unforgettable experiences like skiing on well-maintained slopes served by two lifts, or snowshoe hiking through untouched, snowy landscapes. No matter the season, Bannalp is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Fell-Chrüzhütte cable car operates every 30 minutes, with more frequent trips during busy periods. This cable car runs throughout the winter, although there is typically a maintenance break in November and December. I recommend checking their website for the most up-to-date schedule: Bannalp Cable Car Schedule.
The Fellboden-Bannalpsee cable car operates less frequently but offers a unique and convenient service. To use it, simply call the base station via the provided service phone when you’re ready to depart.
The operator will typically ask how many people are in your group, and if there are at least three, they will usually run the cable car immediately. Note that this cable car operates only during the summer months, from mid-May until the end of October.
Where to Eat at Lake Bannalp
Lake Bannalp offers several delightful dining options to suit your preferences, whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed picnic or a hearty meal at a cozy mountain restaurant.
For a more rustic experience, you can grill at the picnic area located by the river that flows into the lake. This area is well-equipped with tables, multiple fire pits, plenty of firewood, and a play area for kids, making it a perfect spot for a family cookout.
If you prefer dining with a view, head to Berggasthaus Bannalpsee, a charming restaurant with a beautiful terrace overlooking the lake. During my visit, the menu featured regional specialties such as Alpine macaroni, Alpine Rösti, and a delicious Meringue with whipped cream—perfect for savoring after a day of hiking.
During the summer season (mid-June to mid-October), you can also visit Alpwirtschaft Chrützhütte, a quaint mountain café known for its homemade cakes and excellent milk coffee. They also serve refreshing cold drinks, including their homemade elderflower soda, as well as beer and wine. However, since the staff at Chrützhütte also tends to the animals on the alp, you might occasionally find the door closed. But don’t worry, you can always find refreshments at their house kiosk.
Where to Stay at Lake Bannalp
For those looking to extend their visit, Bannalp offers comfortable accommodations that cater to both families and groups.
Berggasthaus Bannalpsee (https://www.restaurant-bannalpsee.ch) provides cozy lodging options, accommodating up to 70 guests in private rooms and shared dormitories. The on-site restaurant is child-friendly, making it an ideal choice for families exploring the beautiful Bannalpsee area. To book your stay, call +41 41 628 15 56.
Another excellent option is Alpwirtschaft Chrützhütte (www.chruezhuette.ch), a welcoming guesthouse located right on the Walenpfad trail. It features a self-catering kitchen, made-up beds, heated group rooms, a play area, a fire pit, and two comfortable lounges. During the summer, the restaurant is open, and you can arrange for dinner and breakfast upon request. The guesthouse is conveniently situated next to the ski lift and just a five-minute walk from the cable car. To book a bed, send an email to [email protected] or call +41 76 461 18 02.
Conclusion
Bannalp Lake is one of my favorite mountain lakes in Central Switzerland—a hidden gem that perfectly blends tranquility, adventure, and natural beauty.
Picture yourself hiking along quiet trails, stopping to enjoy a picnic with a view, or just sitting by the water, taking in the majestic scenery.
No matter the season, this hidden gem will have you itching to return. So grab your gear, tie up your boots, and prepare to fall in love with one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets.
