Sometimes it's the simplest experiences that linger longest in the memory. Taking off your shoes, feeling the cool grass beneath your feet, walking over pebbles, wood, and water – all while letting your gaze wander across an impressive Alpine landscape. That's exactly what awaits visitors at Härzlisee above Engelberg.
The small mountain lake in the Brunni hiking area is much more than just an idyllic rest stop. With its barefoot path, spectacular views, and proximity to one of Switzerland's most important pilgrimage sites, it uniquely combines nature experiences, relaxation, and history.
A heart-shaped mountain lake with a surprising history
Lake Härzli lies at an altitude of approximately 1,860 meters below the Rigidalstock in the Brunni area above Engelberg. Although it appears today to be a natural mountain lake, it was only created in 2000 as a water reservoir for artificial snowmaking on the ski slopes.
It owes its name to its almost heart-shaped form. The small lake has since blended harmoniously into the alpine landscape and is one of the region's most popular destinations. The Brunnihütte, a mountain hut belonging to the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC), the Kräuterhütte (herb hut), and the chairlift's mountain station are located directly on its shore.
The tickle path – wellness for the feet
The biggest attraction around the lake is the 220-meter-long tickle trail. The circular path invites visitors of all ages to take off their shoes and explore the ground with bare feet.
Wood, stones, gravel, bark, water, and meadows alternate, providing ever-changing sensory experiences. What initially appears playful is simultaneously beneficial for the foot muscles and promotes blood circulation.
Special stations make the circular route a small wellness experience:
- In the tickling pot, warm jets of water gently massage the feet.
- In the Chrüselitrog , the arms are alternately immersed in warm and cold water – a simple but refreshing Kneipp treatment in the middle of the mountains.
The circular route is almost level, takes only about ten minutes and is ideal for families with children as well as for hikers who want to enjoy a little relaxation after a tour.
Picnic with Alpine panorama
Those wishing to stay longer will find ideal conditions around Lake Härzli. Five fire pits with seating invite visitors to barbecue and relax. While children play by the water or explore the barefoot path, adults can enjoy the peace and quiet and the view of the surrounding peaks.
Especially on warm summer days, the place unfolds its special charm: The water glitters in the sun, alpine flowers line the paths and over everything lies the relaxed atmosphere of the Engelberg mountains.
Between nature and spirituality
Engelberg is not only known for its mountains. The valley has had a close connection to the religious history of Central Switzerland for centuries. The famous Engelberg Abbey is located just a few kilometers from Lake Härzli, while Einsiedeln, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe, is situated a little further north.
Between these places, a centuries-old tradition of pilgrimage continues to this day – and with it, numerous legends.
The Consecration of the Angels – a legend that moved Europe
Among the best known is the so-called Angel Consecration Legend of Einsiedeln.
According to tradition, the newly built monastery chapel was to be consecrated by the Bishop of Constance in 948. However, the night before the ceremony, the bishop had a vision: Christ himself, accompanied by angels, apostles, and the Virgin Mary, had descended from heaven and already consecrated the chapel.
When the bishop wanted to perform the consecration the next morning, an angel appeared to him and said:
“Brother, stop! The chapel has already been consecrated by God.”
The formal consecration ceremony was subsequently cancelled.
Whether a historical event or a medieval religious legend, the story had an enormous impact. The Benedictines of Einsiedeln spread it throughout Europe. Thousands of pilgrims subsequently made their way to central Switzerland. In the 15th century, up to 130,000 people are said to have visited Einsiedeln during the Feast of the Consecration of the Angels – a number almost unimaginable for that time.
Even today, the Feast of the Consecration of the Angels is celebrated every year on September 14th and commemorates a story that has shaped the pilgrimage site for centuries.
An excursion for all the senses
Lake Härzli impressively demonstrates the diversity of the mountain landscape around Engelberg. Here, nature, activity, and relaxation meet living history and ancient traditions. While the sensory trail playfully engages all the senses, the surrounding mountains invite hiking. At the same time, the nearby monasteries and pilgrimage sites serve as a reminder that this region has attracted people for centuries not only for its scenery but also for its spiritual significance.
Those who visit Härzlisee experience far more than just a beautiful mountain lake. It is a place where alpine nature, family fun, and the fascinating stories of Central Switzerland are uniquely intertwined.
