Lake Trübsee, Mount Titlis, Engelberg

With a population of just over 4000, Engelberg is a small yet leading mountain resort renowned for snow-filled fun in winter and all sorts of summer activities (paragliding, climbing, biking, hiking to name a few). Originally famous for its monastery before it became a top mountain sports resort, we decided to make the most of the sunny weather and visit for a wander.

As we were nearing Engelberg, we frustratingly slowed to a halt in traffic; soon it was clear why when we witnessed dozens of cows being escorted past us on the other side of the road, all with giant bells on them signalling their presence. I had to smile at what we were seeing; it felt so surreal and somehow Swiss, and I couldn't help but feel happy we'd actually stumbled across this tradition, where the cows are escorted back to their farms in autumn - after more than three months in the mountains producing cheese.

Finally we arrived and headed to the cable car reception. While I am used to the crazy high Swiss costs, I was slightly disappointed at the price for a return pass to travel to the top of Titlis; at 89 Swiss Francs (about £57), we decided to opt for a cable car pass to just over halfway up instead - to the beautiful Trübsee - for a more reasonable 30 Swiss Francs (£19). I was keen on a nice hike in the sun rather than a stomp in the snow anyway to be honest!

Trübsee is a mountain lake 1796 m above Engelberg at the foot of the famous Mount Titlis (3239 m). After the very steep but scenic journey on the cable car up, we hopped off and made our way around to the lake situated a few minutes' walk from the lift. There's a lovely viewing point from the side of the mountain where you can see the whole of Engelberg in all its pretty glory...

In the sunshine and with the snow-capped peak of Titlis on one side of us, the lake was bloomin' stunning, and one of the main things that stuck with me was the peace and quiet up there. Being so high up meant the noise pollution of everyday life below was far away, and while there were other people walking around, the lake is big enough to accommodate a fair few visitors before it feels crowded. I felt a world away from the hustle and bustle of inner-city Basel.

We sat on a secluded bench beside the lake and had a mini picnic in the sun, before hopping into one of the rowing boats for a leisurely ride around. Again, as you can see, it was big enough for us to row out, settle the oars and lie in the sun, silently thanking our lucky stars to have such beautiful places to visit on our doorstep.

This amazing reflection in the water just goes to show how peaceful it was as we sat in the boat.

Here's a few more pictures I couldn't resist sharing...

After returning home, we sat on our balcony and watched the sunset; a perfect way to end the day.

Where do you go to get away and escape the norm? Have you visited Switzerland before? I'd love to hear your comments below.

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