Brunni Engelberg – 9 Exciting Ideas For Families

Many people have heard of Titlis in Engelberg – one of Switzerland’s most famous tourist destinations. But on the opposite side of Titlis rests this sunny mountain with breathtaking views of Titlis. It is called Brunni. 


Brunni Engelberg sits 1,850 meters above Engelberg in the canton Obwalden. The cable car from Engelberg and the 3-person chairlift from Ristis lead to it. Engelberg’s sunny side is the perfect destination for families and mountain lovers. This article discusses 9 exciting ideas for families when they visit Brunni, Engelberg.

Overview of Brunni Engelberg

Age GroupAll ages
CategoryNature, Hikes, Playground
Expected DurationFull Day
CostCHF 0 to CHF 44 depending on age and ticket
AddressBrunni, Engelberg
Websitehttps://brunni.ch/
Opening HoursOpening Hours vary depending on the season. Check the website for more detailed information.

If open:
- Starts between 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM
- Ends between 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM

Here are 9 exciting ideas for families when they visit Brunni Engelberg.

1. Globi’s Alpine Playground

Image of Globi’s Playground and Toboggan Run by SwissPlayground.com

Globi’s Alpine Playground is a must-see for families. The nearby mountains provide the perfect backdrop for a thrilling playground. Some of the playground features include:

  • A summer toboggan run
  • Small rope park with climbing elements
  • A marmot slide
  • An alpine hut
  • A ball track
  • A water playground
  • A milking cow and cow bells
  • A playhouse

2. Playground at Berglodge Restaurant

This is another playground very close to Globis Alpine Playground. You’ll find it next to the Berglodge Restaurant in Ristis. Even though this playground is smaller than the Globi one, it does have some really cool play features.

Among their play elements are the following:

  • Eagle Nest
  • Trampoline
  • Sandpit
  • Swing
  • Climbing wall
  • Slide 

Globi’s Visits

During the school holidays, Globi (the mascot) will be here on Wednesdays. He also visits on Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 PM, weather permitting. 

3. Summer Toboggan Run

Toboggan runs (Sommerrodelbahn in German) are only 660 meters long, but it’s a fun family activity. Right by Globi’s Alpine Playground, the toboggan run is such a thrilling experience for children (and even adults!).

Children can ride by themselves as early as 8 years old. Under 8 and they must go on the toboggan with an adult or another child who is at least 12 years old.

The price per trip starts at CHF 1. However, the price drops as you buy more tickets. 

Reservations for groups and schools are recommended.  It is open only in dry weather. 

4. Globine’s or Globi’s Treasure Hunt

Image of the Treasure Chest by SwissPlayground.com

The treasure hunt is an exciting adventure for young treasure hunters. The treasure chests are scattered all over the place between June and October. You can get the treasure maps at the shop on Ristis or the Kräuterhütte near Härzlisee. 

Kids as young as 3 years old will enjoy the treasure hunts (about 3.5 kilometers). Older children, starting at age 7, will enjoy the longer treasure hunts (about 4.5 kilometers). The shorter route can be done with a stroller, but the longer route is not suitable.  The start of the treasure hunt is either Ristis or Kräuterhütte near Härzlisee. 

For one treasure hunt group, CHF 5 is needed. This also includes a gift.

5. Tickle Path on Härzlisee

Image of people walking around Härzlisee Lake by SwissPlayground.com

There is a short but enjoyable tickle path that circles the Härzlisee Lake on Brunni. The path is 220 meters long and very easy to walk, even with small children. If a warm summer day is present, you may want to do it more than once. 

Since it was first opened in 2001, it is a pleasant experience to walk it, feeling the cool water and smooth stones under your feet. Stones are not the only thing included. The variety of materials also includes sand, wood shavings, asphalt, shingles, and loam. There is even a water tub with jets that will tickle your feet. The path is also dotted with various plants along the way, with their names to assist you in identifying them. 

In addition to the benches on the side, there are also resting areas. Those who want a place to sit, eat, or simply relax can take advantage of nearby fireplaces or the surrounding grassy areas. 

Härzlisee is not for swimming in or throwing stones into.  

6. Barefoot Hiking Trail

Image of the Barefoot Hiking Trail by SwissPlayground.com

This Barefoot Hiking Trail was added in honor of the Härzlisee Tickle Trail’s 15th anniversary. The trail starts at Alp Hüttismatt and ends at Brunnihütte. Additionally, you can do it in the other direction. There are ten stations in all. Despite its short length, the trail is really enjoyable for both adults and children.

The Barefoot Hiking Trail is open from June until October depending on the snow situation.

7. Via Ferratas

Image of the climbing area near the Härzlisee Lake by SwissPlayground.com

Brunni features 4 Via Ferratas (climbing routes) for climbing enthusiasts of all levels. 

Brunni has a wide array of climbing routes. Once you get the hang of it, you can do much more. 

Via Ferrata Access and Ascent

The Via Ferrata can be accessed by following the marked path called the “Brunni pathway” from Brunnihütte’s top chairlift station. The path leads to Rugghubelhütte toward the southeast. You will then find an Information Board. After this, turn left and you will reach the starting point of the Via Ferrata. 

Via Ferrata Descent

You can descend by following the marked trail from Schonegg back to Brunnihütte. 

8. Climbing Garden


In addition to the Via Ferratas, Engelberg also offers climbing gardens!

The terrain of Brunni Engelberg is ideal for climbing. New climbing paths were redesigned with families in mind during its renovation in spring 2016. Families, children, and beginners can now climb with the help of local mountain guides on specially-designed routes. 

The following climbing gardens are available in Brunni Engelberg:

  • Climbing garden Brunnihütte
  • Climbers learning path Bettlerstock
  • Climbing garden Betterlerstock South 
  • Climbing garden Betterlerstock West

9. Walen Pathway

Image of the various hiking trails including the Walenpfad by SwissPlayground.com

Among the many sights that can be seen from Engelberg is the Walen pathway (Walenpfad in German). It begins in Brunni and ends in Bannalp, just above Oberrickenbach. Alternatively, you can do the tour from Bannalp to Brunnihütte.

During this varied high-altitude hike, 11.2 kilometers are covered (561 meters ascent, 671 meters descent). Along the way, there are picnic and grill areas.

Visit www.walenpfad.ch for more information. Please note that biking on this path isn’t recommended.

Summary

In the summer as well as in the winter, Brunni Engelberg offers many different activities. We have included only those which are suitable for families, especially those with younger children. There are even more things available, such as paragliding in summer and airboarding in winter. The truth is, I could just go on and on… 

Regardless of what you decide to do, we hope you and your family enjoy your time in Brunni Engelberg! 

Your Swiss Family Adventure Awaits!

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