Gotthard Crystal Trek: Stage 4

The fourth hiking day starts in Rueras and initially leads in the shadow of Uaul Flurin, before the strenuous ascent to Alp Caschlé begins. After 1,000 meters of elevation gain, you reach the “Platta dil Barlot,” a rock where, according to legend, witches danced. The path leads over a mountain ridge to Lai dalla Stria, also called Hexensee. The blue and white markings are initially hard to see, but a GPS helps with orientation. The fantastic view of the lake and a refreshing swim in the ice-cold water reward the effort. After a short descent, there is another climb to the Mittelplatten, where most of the elevation gain is completed. The view stretches to Lake Lucerne – a surprising highlight. The descent requires concentration, but at the end awaits the Etzlihütte, where you can end the day in the heated, bubbling hot pot.