Engelberg is a premier ski destination in central Switzerland, conveniently accessible from major cities like Zurich and Basel, making it particularly appealing for weekend getaways. Nestled in a vast mountain valley and boasting an impressive vertical drop of over 2,000 meters, Engelberg is especially favored by adventurous skiers for its extensive off-piste opportunities and challenging runs.
As one of the top ski resorts in Switzerland, Engelberg offers a thrilling mix of adventure and accessibility. Here's a practical guide we've put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Engelberg ski holiday. You'll discover everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best spots to grab a bite or relax after skiing. At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.
Let's get started!
Engelberg, Switzerland - overview
- Where is Engelberg?
- Engelberg the resort
- Engelberg ski area
- Skiing in Engelberg
- Engelberg ski season dates
- Engelberg snow history
- Restaurants in Engelberg
- Things to do in Engelberg
- Engelberg apres ski, and nightlife
- Engelberg town map
- Practical information
Where is Engelberg?
Engelberg is located in the canton of Obwalden in central Switzerland. It's nestled in a wide mountain valley 35 kilometers south of lake Lucerne, and 85 kilometres south of Zurich.
For a detailed view of Engelberg's location, you can explore it on Google Maps.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
Engelberg the resort
- Resort elevation: 1050 m
- Population: 4000
Engelberg combines traditional Swiss charm with grand, town-like architecture, reflecting its status as a longstanding resort. Home to about 4,000 residents, it is framed by majestic mountains that rise up to 2,000 meters, creating a breathtaking backdrop. The village features a blend of traditional wooden chalets and impressive Swiss structures. Although it may lack the quaint aesthetics of Zermatt or Wengen, Engelberg’s welcoming ambiance, along with its historic Benedictine monastery—a cornerstone since the 12th century—provides a unique mix of ancient heritage and modern resort conveniences. The resort’s pioneering spirit is highlighted by the Rotair cable car, which offers a rotating journey up to the Titlis glacier. This provides not just ski facilities but also panoramic views and a tunnel through the ice at its summit.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
| High altitude skiing | Not the most lively après ski |
| Off-piste heaven | Becomes busy on weekend powder days |
| Huge vertical | Quiet nightlife |
| Great snow record | |
Here is how Engelberg looks like
Watch Engelberg on YouTube .
Back to top
Engelberg ski area
- Summit elevation: 3030 m
- Kilometres of pistes: 82 km
- Vertical drop: 2000 m
- Ski lifts: 19
Engelberg's ski area, renowned for its dramatic Alpine vistas and varied ski terrain, spans over 82 km of pistes connected by a modern and efficient network of 19 ski lifts. The area is divided into three main ski sectors:
- Titlis: This sector is Engelberg's centerpiece, offering the most extensive and challenging skiing in the region. It is home to the impressive Titlis Glacier, accessible via the Rotair cable car, which brings skiers to an altitude of over 3,000 meters. From here, you can enjoy long descents, such as the famous 12 km trail back to the village, spanning a vast vertical drop. The area is known for its steep, off-piste runs and challenging red and black pistes, ideal for advanced skiers.
- Brunni: Located on the sunnier, south-facing side of the valley, Brunni offers a more relaxed skiing experience, making it perfect for families and beginners. The slopes here are generally gentler, with several short, scenic, tree-lined intermediate pistes. It's also home to a popular children’s snow play area and provides easier blue runs ideal for those just starting out or looking to enjoy a leisurely ski day.
- Jochpass: This sector connects with the Titlis area and offers a mix of terrains that cater well to intermediates and advanced skiers. The Jochpass area is less crowded than Titlis, providing a quieter skiing experience with beautiful long runs that descend into the valley. It’s also known for its excellent conditions for freeriding and has several blue and red pistes that intermediates will find delightful.
Skiing in Engelberg
Beginners
Engelberg offers ideal conditions for beginners with dedicated nursery slopes located in the village, Trübsee, and on the sunny Brunni side. The Brunni area, in particular, is favored for its south-facing, gentle slopes which are perfect for first-timers.
Intermediates
Engelberg offers adventurous intermediates a variety of challenging runs, particularly in the Brunni area across the valley. Most pistes are situated above 1,800 meters, ensuring excellent snow coverage and featuring a mix of enjoyable blue and more challenging red runs.
Advanced
Engelberg is a haven for advanced skiers, with its steep and challenging black runs, as well as extensive off-piste opportunities in the north-facing Riscone area and on the Titlis glacier.
Snowboarding
The Jochpass area boasts wide-open pistes perfect for carving and features a terrain park when conditions allow, making it a favorite spot for snowboarders and freestyle enthusiasts.
Off-piste
Known for its superb off-piste options, Engelberg boasts iconic routes like the Laub, offering a vertical drop of around 1,000 meters on a wide, steep slope.
Cross-country skiing
Engelberg caters to cross-country enthusiasts with approximately 35 km of trails spanning across the valley, with longer routes available in Gerschnialp and around Trübsee lake.
Engelberg ski season dates
The ski season in Engelberg for 2024/25 is expected to start on November 29th and run until May 10th, though dates may vary depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Engelberg this season, be sure to explore our Engelberg ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Engelberg snow history
Engelberg offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 32 cm and 34 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.1 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall increases to 27 cm and it occurs more frequently, averaging 3.3 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the second week of January, traditionally the snowiest week in Engelberg, with an impressive 47 cm of snow over 3.4 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 25 cm of snow over 3.0 days.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|
| December | 32 cm | 3.3 days |
| January | 34 cm | 3.1 days |
| February | 27 cm | 3.3 days |
| March | 29 cm | 3.4 days |
| April | 25 cm | 3.0 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Back to top
Restaurants in Engelberg
Mountain restaurants
- Fürenalp: known for serving traditional Swiss dishes, here you can experience a genuine, local dining experience amidst stunning alpine scenery.
- The Panorama: true to its name, The Panorama boasts sweeping views of Engelberg's snow-covered slopes.
- The Skihütte Stand: situated directly on the ski slopes, this ski hut offers a hearty local cuisine.
- The Jochpass: positioned at the Jochpass summit, this restaurant offers a menu featuring both local and international options.
Resort restaurants
- The Alpenclub: located in the heart of Engelberg, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with a menu that featuring traditional Swiss culinary specialities.
- The Yucatan: known for its lively ambiance, the Yucatan is a bar and restaurant that serves a variety of international dishes.
- The Moonrise: this contemporary restaurant offers an eclectic menu in a stylish setting.
- Restaurant at the Hotel Waldegg: this restaurant provides a luxurious dining experience with stunning views of Engelberg.
Things to do in Engelberg
- Titlis suspension bridge
- Glacier cave
- Ice flyer
- Spas and relaxation
- Shopping
- Sports centre
- Cultural tours (Engelberg's 12th century Benedictine monastery)
- Paragliding
- Cinema
- Horse-drawn carriage rides
- Ice skating
- Swimming pool
- Toboganing
- Revolving cable car
Engelberg apres ski and nightlife
- The Old Monk Bar: located in the Hotel Central, this bar is known for its excellent cocktail offerings
- Core Irish Bar: a favorite for its authentic atmosphere and live music sessions
- Ski Lodge Bar: this bar at the Ski Lodge Engelberg is known for its vibrant parties and welcoming atmosphere, especially during busy weeks.
- Yucatan: well-known for its dynamic après-ski scene, it offers a lively environment where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a festive end to their skiing day.
- Gletscherspalte: known for its late-night disco vibes
- Chalet après-ski bar: situated at the base of the primary ski lift, this bar is known for its charming ambiance
- Spindle Nightclub: for those seeking night-time excitement, Spindle offers a fun and energetic atmosphere perfect for enjoying an evening out with friends.
Back to top
Engelberg town map
Download Engelberg resort map here
