After a leisurely warm-up over the Reuss plain of Uri to the tranquil village of Attinghausen, things get brutal: the ascent to Brüsti is steep, zigzagging along old sunk into the meadow. Once we’ve overcome the altitude difference of around 1,000 metres, the reward awaits at the top: a wonderful view of the Reuss plain, Lake Uri, the Schächen valley opposite and the two Windgällen mountains.

While the first section was mostly tough, the route now becomes more exciting – and narrow. Following the ridge with its rich Alpine flora, we hike towards the Surenen Pass, which is almost always in sight. The passage through the Chräienhöreli rock formation is particularly spectacular. The terrain drops sharply and the shaly path gives way to a set of steps, ending on a grassy knoll. Thanks to chains and ropes, though, the descent is quite safe. The trail crosses Alpine meadows and a few small, perennial snow patches to reach the pass almost 2,300 metres above sea level. Here, another stunning mountain view awaits: the eye wanders over the Schächental Alps and the Titlis with its imposing limestone face.

With that peak in sight, we descend on a beautiful path across green meadows. The view from the Blackenalp basin includes the impressive, craggy rock formations of the Gritschenbänder. With a bit of luck, we may be able to watch marmots and glimpse the occasional ibex or chamois in the distance. The trail follows the Stierenbach stream as it winds its way into the valley, until the Fürenalp cable car station. Our route to Engelberg railway station takes us past the Benedictine Monastery, founded in 1120.