The alpine heights and valleys of central Switzerland are beautiful year-round, and you don’t need snow to enjoy them. Engelberg, a scenic high-valley village, is best known for its ancient monastery, which is still home to a community of working monks. Visitors are welcome to tour the monastery’s exhibition cheese dairy, making Engelberg an ideal stop on any agrotourism route through the countryside.
There’s plenty to do in every season. Take a glacier excursion to Mount Titlis aboard the rotating cable car for dramatic views, or enjoy a peaceful hike along the Kneipp Trail around Härzlisee Lake. For a taste of local cuisine, try Alplermagronen (a traditional Swiss macaroni and cheese served with apple sauce) at Mountain Hut Flühmatt, and if the timing is right, follow it with a moonlit torchlit descent back into the village. Comfortable lodging options include the tranquil, elegant Hotel Spannort. Engelberg is conveniently located less than an hour by train from Lucerne.
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