The sun-drenched upland plateau of Melchsee-Frutt is situated at the heart of Switzerland. The quiet and unspoilt scenery of this area around the former spa resort can be enjoyed to the full on a snowshoe trail. Starting at the Melchsee-Frutt mountain station, the trail leads in a south-easterly direction to Melchsee lake and past the chapel, which is situated on a peninsula. In the Distelboden area you bear right and make your way up a steep climb to the Gumm. The effort is well rewarded: at the top there is a superb view of the Melchsee-Frutt upland valley, down into Gental valley and onto the Bernese Alps.

On the ridge, the trail branches off to the right and makes a detour to the Erzegg mountain station. If you like, you can take the chair lift back to Distelboden from here. And if you prefer not to gain so much altitude in your snowshoes, of course you can start your trek at the mountain station – this is a popular option. After some gentle uphill and downhill stretches at the start, the route described here takes you downwards along the ridge: you pass the cross atop Mount Erzegg and continue via the Fachshubelhütte cabin to the idyllic settlement of Tannalp. In the summer the latter is used for cattle-breeding and cheese-making. And although the name suggests otherwise (Tanne means fir tree), there is not a single coniferous tree to be seen here. The name probably dates back to the Middle Ages when pine trees would still have existed here. At that time, the Alps were extended by means of deforestation.

Immediately adjacent to the hamlet there is an idyllic little lake with a chapel. The lake is called Tannensee and is popular among ice fishers. If you are lucky and happen to be there at the right time, you can see them pursuing their hobby. From Tannalp back to Melchsee-Frutt, your route follows the winter hiking trail. On arrival in the village, you will find your way back to the mountain station past hotels and holiday homes.