Uncover the magic of Lucerne, Switzerland

5 Shares

The city of Lucerne, a gateway to central Switzerland, continues to captivate visitors from around the globe with its picturesque mountains, stunning lakeside and charming alpine villages. This article explores just a few of the highlights which this idyllic city has to offer, from crossing the Reuss River via the flower-lined Chapel Bridge to embarking on a ferry ride along Lake Lucerne.

Lucerne, Switzerland

Mount Pilatus

Ascend Mount Pilatus via the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to delight in panoramic scenery of the magnificent Swiss Alps, 7000 feet above sea level. Extending from Alpnachstad to Pilatus Kulm, the cogwheel railway winds through lush meadows of edelweiss, past sparkling mountain streams and fascinating rock faces. Opt to hike further to the summit of Mount Pilatus for breathtaking views.

Pilatus

Chapel Bridge

Touted as the oldest wooden bridge of Europe, this landmark of Lucerne is beautifully adorned with flowers and ceiling paintings which serve to provide a rich depiction of Swiss history. Spanning the Reuss River from St. Peter’s Chapel to the Water Tower, the historic bridge is encircled by quaint alleys and medieval architecture. Together with its octagonal Water Tower, Chapel Bridge is one of the most photographed monuments in Lucerne.

Chapel Bridge

Lion Monument

Praised by Mark Twain as ‘the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world’, Lucerne’s Lion Monument commemorates the heroic death of the Swiss Guards, hired to protect the King of France during the French Revolution. The mournful sculpture is inscribed with the names of the martyred soldiers alongside Latin words meaning the Loyalty and Bravery of the Swiss. The Lion Monument is set amidst tranquil foliage and a gently rippling pool, providing an idyllic setting for reflection.

lion monument

Lake Lucerne

Embark on a scenic ferry ride of Lake Lucerne, encircled by popular excursion mountains such as Rigi, Pilatus and Klewenalp. The 144 square metre lake has been christened as the heart of Switzerland due to its location amidst majestic steep peaks and lush hillsides, meadows and valleys. A 35 kilometre walkway called the Swiss Path, built in commemoration of Switzerland’s 700^th anniversary, extends around the circumference of the lake.