Brunnihütte – Alpine Hut & Family-Friendly Hiking Base

The Brunnihütte is a popular and welcoming mountain hut located above Engelberg, in the Canton of Obwalden. Set on sunny alpine pastures with expansive views toward the Titlis and the surrounding Central Swiss Alps, it is best known as an accessible hiking destination and a comfortable base for day hikes, family outings, and relaxed overnight stays. The hut prioritizes enjoyment of the alpine environment over technical mountaineering.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Above Engelberg, Canton of Obwalden, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 1,860 m

  • Type: Mountain hut / alpine inn (seasonally served)

  • Capacity: Approx. 40–45 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: typically June to October (weather-dependent)

  • Management: Local / alpine association

• Access & Approaches

  Access is straightforward and well suited to a wide audience.

  • Primary access:

    • Cable car to Brunni / Ristis, followed by hiking

  • Alternative:

    • Hiking up from Engelberg (longer)

  • Hiking time (from lifts): ~1.5–2.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~400–600 m

  • Terrain: Well-marked alpine paths, meadows, gentle slopes

  • Difficulty: T2

  This makes the Brunnihütte suitable for families and less experienced hikers.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Comfort is high compared to classic alpine huts.

  • Dormitories and private rooms

  • Restaurant with hot meals

  • Drinking water available

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity and lighting

  The hut is designed for day visitors and overnight guests alike.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is relaxed and lively.

  • Traditional Swiss mountain cuisine

  • Popular stop for day hikers and families

  • Social, friendly ambiance, especially on sunny weekends

  The terrace is a highlight, offering wide views over the Engelberg valley.

• Routes & Alpine Context

  The Brunnihütte is an excellent base for:

  • Day hikes in the Brunni / Bannalp area

  • Family-friendly alpine walks

  • Scenic balcony trails above Engelberg

  • Linking hikes toward other Central Switzerland routes

  It is not intended for glacier travel or technical alpine objectives.

• When to Go

  • Best season: June to September

  • Conditions: Generally stable; afternoon storms possible in summer

  • Main risks: Minimal—standard mountain hiking awareness

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Hikers of all levels

  • Families with children

  • Casual alpine walkers

  • Visitors seeking comfort with mountain scenery

  • Not suitable for technical mountaineering or glacier routes

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 1,860 m, the Brunnihütte offers one of the most enjoyable and approachable alpine experiences in the Engelberg region. Its combination of easy access, good food, and panoramic views makes it an ideal introduction to mountain huts—proof that alpine culture is not only about extremes, but also about welcoming landscapes and shared enjoyment.