Lucerne Lakes and Mountains

Fly into Zurich, Bern or Geneva then continue by train to Lucerne (1, 2 or 3.5 hours).

Lucerne has long been popular with visitors. With an impressive mountainous backdrop and clear lake waters running through its center, it’s easy to see why. Visit the famous Chapel Bridge, the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Wander to the Lion of Lucerne, a poignant rock relief commemorating Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution. Or simply enjoy a glass of Swiss wine in a lakeside bar and watch the world go by.

Begin your day in Lucerne before quickly leaving the bustle behind, following scenic lakeside paths and quiet country trails through forests and open pastures dotted with grazing cows. Pass through the village of Adligenswil for a refreshment stop, then continue past traditional farmhouses and flower-filled balconies as sweeping views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding peaks unfold. Midway in Küssnacht, take time to enjoy lakeside cafés or sample local Swiss chocolates before continuing along panoramic trails, finishing with a rewarding descent into the picturesque village of Weggis.

Set on the shores of Lake Lucerne and surrounded by mountain scenery, Weggis is a charming Swiss village known for its mild climate and relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely two-night stay with lakeside promenades, scenic views of Mount Rigi, and a peaceful setting that is perfect for recharging between hikes.

Hiking Options: 5, 9 or 13 miles (8, 14 or 21km)

Ascent/Descent 600/600m (1,969ft/1969ft)

Begin your day with an unforgettable ascent from Weggis, combining a cable car to Rigi Kaltbad and a classic cogwheel railway ride to the summit of Rigi Kulm at 1,797m/5,896ft – an iconic journey showcasing Switzerland’s world-renowned mountain transport.

At the top, take in sweeping panoramic views over 13 lakes and distant alpine peaks before enjoying a drink or bite at the summit restaurant. The easy-going hike then descends along scenic mountain trails through farms, alpine cafés, and the villages of Rigi Klösterli and Rigi First, before returning to Rigi Kaltbad for the cable car back to Weggis.

Ascent/Descent: 130m/450m (427ft/1,476ft)

Begin your day from Rigi Kaltbad on an easy-going trail along the famous Rigi Panorama Route, following a historic railway line toward Rigi Scheidegg. A short ascent near the peak rewards you with a stunning panorama - sweeping views of Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and the surrounding Alpine peaks. At the top, perhaps linger at one of the two traditional mountain restaurants to enjoy Swiss classics such as Rösti or a local cheese platter.

Continue with a steady descent through pine-scented forests, hillside pastures and farms, where the tinkle of cowbells and sounds of mountain streams drift across the landscape. After your hike, take the cable car to Vitznau and enjoy a scenic ferry across Lake Lucerne to Beckenried.

Ascent/Descent: 150m/1186m (492ft/3,891ft) please note that this includes the cable car down

Today, experience the longest cable car ride in Central Switzerland from Beckenried to Klewenalp! Pass Brisenhaus, a mountain hut located at 1753m/5,751ft. Descend on a rocky path, arriving in Niederrickenbach, a quaint hamlet only accessible to the general public by cable car or on foot. Explore the small Cloisters area and the lovingly kept garden. Return to the cable car for the trip back to Beckenried, or for those who still have the energy, follow the easy woodland trail to Stockhuette.

Hiking Options: 5 or 16km (3 or 10mi)

Ascent/Descent: 118/438m (387ft/1,437ft) or 812m/822m (2,625ft/2,625ft)

Leaving Beckenried, follow quiet country roads and hillside trails as you gradually climb through traditional farming hamlets toward the valley town of Stans, with views across the lake and surrounding green landscapes. If time permits, enjoy the round trip cable car from Stans to the summit of Stanserhorn (1,898m/6,227ft), a unique open-top ride offering panoramic alpine views.

Continue by train to Alpnachstad before boarding the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, an unforgettable ascent through alpine meadows, rocky tunnels, and dramatic mountain scenery. Arrive at Pilatus Kulm and check into your unique mountain hotel in the clouds, where you can enjoy an included dinner and relish the peaceful mountain atmosphere after the day visitors have departed. With sweeping summit views, this evening is a truly memorable alpine stay.

Ascent/Descent: 467m/452m (1,532ft/1,483ft)

Included Dinner: Pilatus-Kulm

After a hearty breakfast, take time to explore the short hikes around the summit, where sweeping views stretch across the surrounding lakes and Alpine peaks.

Descend by cable car to Fräkmüntegg and follow well-marked trails through forested slopes toward Kriens, enjoying a gentle downhill hike with opportunities to pause for refreshments along the way. From Kriens, either take a short bus ride or continue on foot back into Lucerne, completing your journey where it began.

Ascent/Descent: 103/1078m (338ft/3539ft)

After breakfast, check-out of your hotel and make your onward journey.

If you are planning a longer Swiss tour, the Bernese Oberland combines perfectly with Lucerne, contact us for more info.