Emmenuferweg Stage 1: Brienzer Rothorn–Sörenberg

The hike begins with great views – on the highest peak of the canton of Lucerne, the Brienzer Rothorn. Once at the top, it is worth pausing for a moment and taking in the panorama. The view stretches north over the Waldemmental. In clear weather, the view extends over the Napf and the lakes beyond to the Black Forest. On the other side, Lake Brienz glistens in the depths, above which the snow-covered peaks of Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau, and up to 690 other mountain peaks tower.

Past the viewpoint begins the descent towards Eisee. The small mountain lake lies at the foot of the Arnihaaggen, embedded in a mosaic of scree slopes and green meadows. The lakeshore invites for a first break. Those who dare can cool their feet in the icy cold mountain lake before tackling the descent towards Emmensprung. The path snakes further downhill in several switchbacks until the Emmensprung is reached at 1465 m altitude. As if from nowhere, the spring water bubbles out of the ground and finds its way into the valley, where it finally flows into the Waldemme. Just a few meters further, you will discover two waterfalls in the middle of a small forest, where water gushes down moss-covered rocks.

Over gentle meadows, the route follows the branched streams into the valley. On the descent, you immerse yourself in the UNESCO Entlebuch Biosphere with its unique river and moor landscapes, cozy floodplain forests, and scattered settlements. From the valley station of the aerial cableway, you can look forward to the comfortable part of the stage. Without major ascents or descents, the hiking trail leads along the Waldemme to the village of Sörenberg.