A spectacular 4.7 km ridge hike from Klingenstock to Fronalpstock in Stoos, Switzerland. The trail offers panoramic views of up to 10 alpine lakes, dramatic drops, and a thrilling walk along a narrow ridgeline. Rated moderately difficult, it requires surefootedness and a head for heights. Accessed via the world’s steepest funicular (110% gradient), this hike is a true alpine highlight.
I thought a dog harness might be suitable for the kids here, but in the end, they managed really well without.
Mountain lakes and rivers often appear turquoise due to fine glacial sediment called "rock flour" that scatters sunlight. The clear, cold water contains little organic matter, allowing light to penetrate deeply and reflect blue-green wavelengths. Combined with minimal algae and strong sunlight, this creates the striking turquoise colour.
In the Lucerne region, especially near Mount Pilatus, spring water is bottled by companies like Wald Mineral Water, known for its high-quality content of calcium, magnesium, and potassium. The city of Lucerne also promotes sustainable water use through over 200 public fountains offering clean drinking water.
Cows are good at climbing. In 2011, a cow climbed onto a roof in Germany, and the fire department had to lift it down with a crane."
I have always carried the tools of MacGyver. Now also the boys have theirs. Straightly from the factory in Ibach, near Stoos. It is always interesting which model people choose and why. Especially would you choose a corkscrew or a Phillips screwdriver, and whether you want the big one with everything, or the small one that always fits in your pocket and stays with you.
The Swiss Army Knife was invented by Karl Elsener, a Swiss cutler who began producing knives for soldiers in 1891 in Ibach, Switzerland. His goal was to create a compact tool that combined essential functions for military use, like opening canned food and maintaining rifles.
In 1897, Elsener introduced the Officer’s and Sports Knife, which added a second blade and a corkscrew. This version became the blueprint for the Victorinox Spartan, the most traditional model today.
Swiss army officers didn’t need the awl or heavy-duty tools of infantry knives. Instead, they benefited from: blade for general cutting tasks, corkscrew for wine but also opening corked bottles of medicine or hygiene products, and lastly can opener & screwdriver for field meals and basic gear maintenance.
Victorinox later acquired its longtime competitor Wenger in 2005, becoming the sole supplier of Swiss Army knives. With over 500 million knives produced, Victorinox is now a global icon of precision, versatility, and Swiss design.
But what tools MacGyver used?
He used various models depending on the episode’s needs, but the Tinker, Spartan, and Recruit were his signature trio. Always ready to save the day with a bit of clever thinking and a lot of improvisation.
The Tinker versions are my favourites.
Schwyz.