July 2026 – Crossing the Alps – Day 2: From Ehrwald to the Fernsteinsee

This morning I set off from Ehrwald in the rain. Luckily, I was well prepared for it, so the weather didn't bother me at all. Over the course of the day, it actually got nicer and nicer. Today's stage followed the Five Lakes Trail – and as the name suggests, it passed several beautiful mountain lakes.

During the hike, the same thought kept coming back to me: how nice it would be to simply jump into one of these lakes right now. Honestly, I hadn't expected that this wish would still come true today.

All the greater was the surprise when I arrived at the Fernsteinsee. Right next to the hotel, there is a bathing meadow with access to the lake. I had barely set down my backpack before I was in the water. I've already swum a few laps and will certainly go in again shortly.

It is a very special feeling to swim in an Alpine lake between the mountains and to be able to enjoy this moment almost entirely to yourself. The water is pleasantly fresh, and the temperatures could be a bit higher overall, but that is exactly what somehow defines this place. After today's hike, I couldn't have imagined a more beautiful end to the day.

For this evening, I've set my sights on a Kaiserschmarrn. After that, I'll let the day wind down and look forward to the next stage tomorrow.