High up and down below – a 6-day trek in a mountain lake paradise
Discover the Gotthard Crystal Trek – an impressive 6-day long-distance hiking route through the Swiss Alps in the Andermatt and Disentis Sedrun region. The route is characterised by varied stages, crystal-clear mountain lakes, quiet mountain passes and spectacular views. It is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the high Alps away from the beaten track and discover unique natural scenery.
The first stage of the Gotthard Crystal Trek leads from Andermatt along the Reuss River to Hospental and up to the Gatschola Pass at 2,528 m a.s.l.. The steady ascent is rewarded with impressive views of the Furka Pass and the glaciers of Damma and Galenstock. After the pass, the Valetta and Orsirora lakes invite you to take a break or enjoy a refreshing swim. Passing the turquoise Lake Lucendro, the stage ends at the Gotthard Pass.
Stage highlights
Panoramic views from the Gatschola Pass
Swimming in Lake Valetta or Orsirora
Visit to the Museo Nazionale del San Gottardo or Sasso San Gottardo
From the Gotthard Pass, the route first leads to the picturesque Sella Reservoir. It then follows a little-used trail up to the striking Gloggentürmli. The blue-and-white marked alpine trail requires sure-footedness and continues to the plateau “Im Vorderen Loch”, home to three idyllic mountain lakes. After the final ascent to the Gfallenen Pass, a panorama with up to nine additional lakes opens up. The varied descent ends at the welcoming Vermigel Hut.
Stage highlights
Pass crossing at the Gloggentürmli
“Im Vorderen Loch” plateau with three mountain lakes
Famous Vermicelles dessert at the Vermigel Hut
The stage begins with a descent from the Vermigel Hut to the Lolen Pass, a hidden gem with 47 switchbacks and a moderate gradient. After a break at the Maighel Hut, the route climbs to Piz Cavradi, offering spectacular views. The descent towards Lai da Curnera leads to the charming village of Tschamut. Following the golf course in Selva, the first golf course on the Rhine, the hike continues gently to Rueras.
Stage highlights
The quiet and little-used Lolen Pass
Panoramic views from Piz Cavradi
View of the historic Pontaningen castle ruins
Starting in Rueras, the trail leads through the shaded Uaul Flurin forest before climbing towards Alp Caschlé. After around 1,000 metres of ascent, you reach the legendary Platta dil Barlot, where witches are said to have danced. The route continues to the picturesque Witches’ Lake, followed by a short descent and a final climb to the Mittelplatten. From here, an unexpected view opens up towards Lake Lucerne. The descent leads to the Etzli Hut, where a hot tub awaits for relaxation.
Please note: The Etzli Hut will be closed in summer 2026 due to renovation work. For alternative accommodation options along the route, please contact our tourist information offices:
Andermatt Tourist Information: info@andermatt.swiss | +41 41 888 71 00
Tourist Information Disentis Sedrun: info@disentis-sedrun.ch | +41 81 920 40 30
Stage highlights
The picturesque Witches’ Lake
Surprising views of Lake Lucerne
Relaxing in the hot tub at the Etzli Hut
Stage five begins directly behind the Etzli Hut with impressive views of Witenalpstock and Oberalpstock. After a short ascent, you reach Lake Spillau at 2,300 m a.s.l., one of the highlights of the entire trek. An optional descent to the lake is possible. The route continues over the Pörtlilücke, offering wide alpine panoramas, before a demanding descent leads to the Tresch Hut, the lowest SAC hut in the Alps.
Stage highlights
Idyllic Lake Spillau with its rock island
Stunning views from the Pörtlilücke
Overnight stay at the Tresch Hut
The final stage leads from the Tresch Hut up to the Fellilücke. The ascent takes around two to three hours and offers beautiful views as well as small crystal finds along the trail. From the Fellilücke, the iconic lighthouse on the Oberalp Pass comes into view. A relaxed high-level path leads to Lake Luter, perfect for a refreshing break. The descent to the Oberalp Pass and a leisurely walk along Lake Oberalp mark the end of the trek.
Stage highlights
Crystal finds on the way to the Fellilücke
Lighthouse at the Oberalp Pass
Well-earned refreshment at Restaurant Alpsu
Packing list for your long-distance hike
Are you well prepared for the Gotthard Crystal Trek or other long-distance hikes around Andermatt, Sedrun and Disentis? Our handy packing list will help you remember everything you need – ideal for saving or printing out for unforgettable days in the Alpine mountains.
