7 reasons we can't get enough of Engelberg-Titlis
Ask any Swiss local what their favourite ski resort might be, and they’ll likely answer with Engelberg-Titlis. In a country full of mountains, it’s one of the all-time best for skiers and snowboarders.
Very simply, it has everything going for it - from the amount of terrain to explore all the way through to the length of the season, the off-snow activities and the little quirks scattered throughout town.
We’ve got the full list for you below on all the reasons you’d love visiting this hidden gem of Switzerland.
1. It’s easy to get to
Zurich is the main international gateway airport, and is just 85km north of Engelberg. Jump on one of those famous Swiss trains to get to the slopes; it’ll take you just under two hours to get there, and you’ll travel through the beautiful ancient town of Lucerne, surrounded by panoramic mountain views and a sparkling lake.
You can also go via Geneva, which takes about four hours by train and lands you right into the stunning car-free village of Engelberg.
2. A lengthy ski and snowboarding season
Thanks to the Engelberg glacier, the resort opens in October, with the season stretching all the way through to May. The mountain also has a snow guarantee from December through to April - no snow, and you get your money back.
Expect 600cm of the white stuff per season, and with the high altitude of over 1800m, you’ll enjoy taking full advantage of those crisp, fresh groomers.
3. Plenty of terrain to enjoy
As the largest ski area in central Switzerland, you know your legs are going to get a workout. There are 82km of runs to be explored, serviced by 23 lifts. And with the longest of the runs being up to 12km, get ready for that thigh burn.
Everyone from beginners to expert skiers and boarders are covered for terrain, although the resort is particularly famous for its off-piste runs. Those keen on freeriding and powder hunting will be in their element exploring the 2000m of vertical and terrain park. And they can continue to do so well into the night, with night skiing here open until 9pm.
4. The most picturesque of ski villages
Upon arrival, you’ll be walking into a postcard, complete with the local Benedictine Monastery, which was founded in 1120 - and where monks still live, work and make the local cheese.
The pedestrian town means restaurants and shops are easily accessible, especially for families who prefer everything to be within walking distance.
And with comfortably furnished holiday apartments available to rent via Skimax, you can cook up a storm at home or venture out to try one of the local delicacies.
Speaking of which…
5. The food
One word for you: Älplermagronen. It’s a local favourite, a Swiss pasta dish layered with cheese and potato, then topped with caramelized onion - and every bit as delicious as it sounds. Every restaurant in Engelberg serves one up, so you can turn your tastebuds to sampling a different one every night.
The local alp cheesemakers in town also have a lot to offer; known as the Sälmi, they provide restaurants all around town with the most delicious options to create dishes such as Cordon-Bleu.
6. Lots to do off the slopes
If you already thought Engelberg was sounding pretty good, we’ve got more for you. There’s so much here for sightseers, let alone skiers and boarders.
Such as the TITLIS Rotair, the World’s first revolving aerial gondola. The incredible gondola cabins rotate 360 degrees during the five minute journey, allowing you to take in the best views of the mountains that surround you.
There’s also the glacier cave, an ancient blue ice cave formed by glacial ice from prehistoric times. Or Europe’s highest suspension footbridge, the Titlis Cliff Walk, which sits over 3000 metres above sea level, and swings 500 metres off the ground.
The Igloo Village is also a great find - choose from a romantic igloo for two or bring the whole family to explore a four or six person igloo. The igloos have roaring wood fires and the village has an open air hot Jacuzzi for soaking under the stars. Sustainable and stunning all in one.
Or go tubing, winter hiking, sledding, ice skating to name just a few - the adventures are ready and waiting for you.
7. Great for the eco conscious
Skiers and snowboarders are a climate-conscious bunch, considering we want to be skiing and boarding on our beloved mountains for many years to come.
You’ll rest a bit easier in Engelberg-Titlis knowing how continuously committed they are to the efficient use of energy, climate protection, renewable energies and environmentally friendly mobility.
The village is committed to covering its own electricity requirements from 2022, with 100% renewable electricity, and from 2030 additionally with 50% green electricity.
Engelberg has also carried the ‘Energiestadt’ Label since 2011 – a European energy award for municipalities that exemplify and implement a sustainable energy policy.
As a destination, it makes Switzerland that little bit more tempting - knowing you can make the most of your ski holiday, while still caring for the planet.
