This is Lungern
Lungern is a holiday resort on Lake Lungern, popular with families and hikers. It lies in Central Switzerland, in the canton of Obwalden, at the foot of the Brünig Pass.
Discover Lungern
Lungern's landmark is its old church tower. Climb 78 steps to enjoy views across the lake. The tower is all that remains of a church that was once filled with debris up to its windows by a stream following a thunderstorm. For safety reasons, today's parish church stands on a hill at the other end of the village. Its colourful stained-glass windows were designed by the artist Albin Schweri.
Lake Lungern
Lake Lungern is known for its emerald-green colour. Fine mineral particles in the water reflect green light, depending on the angle of the sunlight. In the 19th century, the lake level was lowered through a tunnel to create farmland. Today, the lake serves as a reservoir, with its water powering a hydroelectric plant in Giswil. In summer, cool off at the lakeside bathing area.
Turren hiking area
High above Lake Lungern lies the peaceful Turren hiking area. A cable car takes you up in 6 minutes. At the top, the Butterfly Trail begins, leading through flower-filled meadows down to the Kaiserstuhl district. Along the way, 17 information boards introduce you to the many butterflies living on the slopes. In winter, follow snowshoe trails across snow-covered Alpine pastures to Berghaus Schönbüel at around 2,000 metres.
Around Lungern
Beyond the Brünig Pass, the Bernese Oberland begins with Lake Brienz. Above the lake rises the Brienzer Rothorn, which you can reach from Turren in around 4 hours on foot. From June to October, a steam-powered cogwheel railway takes you down from the Rothorn to Brienz. Nearby, the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum displays more than 100 original historic buildings from across Switzerland. Inside, craftspeople demonstrate traditional techniques.
Experience Lungern for less
Stay at least one night in Obwalden and you'll receive the
Obwalden Guest Card by email. It offers discounts on mountain railways and museums, including the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum. With the
Lucerne Travel Pass, you can enjoy unlimited travel on trains and mountain railways for several days, including the cable car to Turren.
