While most of Switzerland’s ski resorts are located along the Italian, French or Austrian border, Engelberg stands alone in the centre of the country. The picture perfect village counts about 3500 inhabitants and is nested in the Obwalden Alps. In its early days, Engelberg’s activities revolved around its monastery, established in the 12th century, which was considered a great place of knowledge. Winter sports started to develop in the late 19th century, shortly after the first hotel was built.

In summer, the Engelberg-Titlis mountain cable-ways don’t stay still! In fact, they allow skiers and boarders to enjoy their sport even in the heart of summer, on the Titlis Glacier. All kinds of sport lovers can also enjoy their favourite summer activities, and there are plenty: Mountain bikers of all levels will find suiting challenge on one of the 14 mountain biking trails (from beginner to expert level). The Via Ferrata network offers five routes to choose from, and one has been designed for the whole family to be able to discover this alpine activity. While the Via Ferrata demands a good overall physical shape, the Seilpark (rope park) is accessible to most, given that they are not afraid of heights. The six trails are comprised of hanging bridges, Nepal walkways and exciting Tyroleans. For those of us who prefer having both feet on the ground, numerous opportunities of Nordic walking as well as hiking are offered and the Golf Club Engelberg-Titlis (18 holes, 5505 m, Par 71), with its fantastic panorama, is the perfect spot to combine sport, nature and well-being.

In winter, ski at an altitude ranging between 1000 and 3000 metres above sea level. The resort of Engelberg-Titlis has 82 kilometres of runs and 24 transport installations to offer, so one can expect perfect skiing enjoyment on blue, red and black slopes. Engelberg is definitely the place to be for snowboard enthusiasts, in winter or summer, since the offer is very complete here: a fun park on the Joch Pass during winter, on the Titlis glacier in summer and all of its runs. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, all winter activities usually found in European ski resorts are also found here: telemark, cross country skiing, sledding, Nordic walking, hiking, snowshoeing, etc. For sport events enthusiasts, the FIS ski jump world cup is held here in December and the Swiss Snow Walking Event in March. During both this events, think about booking your accommodation ahead because Engelberg hotels and apartments fill up quite quickly.

The impressive Benedictine monastery is still operational today, with more than 30 monks in residence. Visits are possible Wednesday to Saturday from 10AM to 4PM and typical regional cheese (ladled by hand into a mould by the monks) can be purchased in the boutique (open daily) located in the monastery.