Klewenalp
Nidwalden
Klewenalp is a mountain pasture and a prominent holiday resort located above the municipality of Beckenried in the canton of Nidwalden, Switzerland. Situated at about 1,593 meters above sea level on a landscape terrace and mountain slopes south of Lake Lucerne, it is part of the larger Beckenrieder Alp area. The region is characterized by its alpine meadows, extensive grazing lands, and the dominating Klewenstock peak. Klewenalp is accessible by the longest cable car in central Switzerland, connecting Beckenried with the alpine area. The resort is popular for both winter and summer tourism, offering a ski area with 13 lifts and two main downhill runs, reaching elevations up to approximately 2,000 meters. In summer, the area transforms into a hiking paradise with trails such as the Alpenblumenweg around Klewenstock and sections of the Via Urschweiz and Bärfallen-Panorama-Weg. The alpine environment is also protected, featuring dry meadows designated as nature reserves of national importance. The combination of natural beauty, outdoor sports, and cultural heritage makes Klewenalp a unique destination in central Switzerland.
Plan your trip to Switzerland with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to use the cable car connecting Beckenried to Klewenalp for convenient access. The ski lifts operate during winter and summer seasons, allowing for year-round activities. The best time to visit depends on interests: winter for skiing and snow sports, summer for hiking and alpine flora exploration. Purchasing tickets in advance for the cable car is recommended during peak seasons. Several hiking trails start from the mountain station, suitable for various skill levels. Discounts may be available for families, seniors, and groups.
Interesting facts
- •Klewenalp is part of the Beckenrieder Alp, which includes 22 alpine farms for summer cattle grazing.
- •The cable car connecting Beckenried to Klewenalp is the longest in central Switzerland.
- •The ski area includes 13 lifts and two main downhill runs reaching elevations up to about 2,000 meters.
- •Several dry meadow areas in Klewenalp are designated as nature reserves of national importance.
- •The alpine area lies within the protected landscape region of Lake Lucerne with surrounding mountains, recognized nationally for natural and cultural heritage.
History
The Klewenalp region has been used as alpine pastureland for centuries, managed traditionally by local alpine cooperatives.
The area was historically part of the extensive estates in the Beckenried municipality, which traces its origins back over 2,000 years to Alamanni settlers.
The development of tourism infrastructure, including the cable car system, began in the 20th century to promote the area as a recreational destination.
The ski area expanded notably with the addition of new lifts such as the gondola between Emmetten and Stockhütte, inaugurated in 2007.
Conservation efforts have preserved the natural alpine meadows, recognized nationally for their ecological value.
Place Guide
Klewenalp Cable Car Station20th century
The main access point to the Klewenalp alpine area, this station connects Beckenried village with the mountain resort via a large gondola cable car system capable of transporting 80 people per cabin. It offers panoramic views of Lake Lucerne during ascent.
Ski Area and LiftsExpanded in 2007 with the Emmetten-Stockhütte gondola
Klewenalp features a winter sports area with 13 lifts and two main downhill runs, including a gondola connecting Emmetten to the Stockhütte ski station. The ski slopes reach elevations up to approximately 2,000 meters, providing varied terrain for skiers.
Alpenblumenweg (Alpine Flower Trail)
A scenic walking trail around the Klewenstock mountain showcasing the rich alpine flora of the region. This trail is accessible from the cable car mountain station and is ideal for summer visitors interested in nature and botany.
Protected Dry Meadows and Nature Reserves
Several areas around Klewenalp are designated as dry meadows and alpine pastures protected for their ecological significance. These areas are part of the federal inventory of dry meadows and pastures of national importance, preserving biodiversity.