Lucerne summer holidays

Holidays in Lucerne

Lucerne is one of the cultural hubs of central Switzerland. Picture a fairy-tale town and this is probably what you’d come up with; the Renaissance and Baroque architecture, lakeside setting and mountainous surroundings make this one of the prettiest towns in the land. To really appreciate the setting, take the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to the top of the Pilatus for a panoramic view of 73 alpine peaks or look over the water from the medieval Kapellbrucke or the water tower. There’s a lot going on here in the summer – including the annual festival of classical and contemporary music which usually features big names from around the globe.

Highlights: • Rigi, Pilatus & Stanserhorn mountains • Visit the famous Lion Monument • Water sports on the lake

Lucerne Walking

There’s walking and hiking to the east and west of this gorgeous lakeside city, making it a great base from which to launch excursions. At Mount Pilatus the expansive slopes are dotted with trails - our favourite route begins in Kriens, climbs up to Frankmungtegg before turning into a steep ascent through a ravine to the summit at Pilatus Kulm. Taking about 4 hours it’s demanding but rewarding, and from the ravine you’ll get spectacular views back over Lake Lucerne. To explore the rest of the mountain there are gondolas from Kriens, Brunni or a cog railway from Alpnachstad, all designed to get you above the treeline and onto the trails. In the opposite direction and across from Lake Lucerne is Mount Rigi, which has 120km of hiking and walking trails, split into 15 hikes. We love the views of the Jungfrau and the Eiger on the Rigi National Treasures walk.

As well as providing easy access to the mountain tracks, Lucerne itself is a great destination for walking. Founded in 750, the city has a rich cultural heritage, represented by the architectural blend of Hapsburg, Catholic and modern day Swiss influences. The city’s landmark, the Chapel Bridge originally built in 1333, is renowned for its octagonal Water Tower. Part of the Musegg old city wall can be walked along and there are three towers which can be explored. Outside of the city walls, walkers can try the routes around the lake.

Lucerne Cycling

Lucerne is a top spot for access to loads of regional and national cycle trails. Two-wheeled exploration is one of the best ways to take in the beautiful green countryside and the Vierwaldstattersee (Lake Lucerne). The 57km route to and from Aurau is a national stage on the North-South route and it’s a brilliant easy/intermediate level ride. The Rothenburg and River Reuss are the highlights and you’ll get a good feel for the area before trying some more testing tracks. The best mountain views are on the uphill leg of the ride to Brunnen, climbing up with the Rigi above you before cruising along a meandering lakeside stretch.

If you’re mountain biking, there are some fantastically long regional routes including a 140km trip through the Emmental valley to Bern via the Napf summit and the Langnau hills. Closer to home, you’ll find some awesome trails on the Rigi massif.

Make the ride altogether easier by hiring a Swiss Flyer E-Bike – there are some fantastic rides touring lakes like Zug and Lauerz before returning to Lucerne and the helping hand of battery power gives you more energy to enjoy the wow factors along the way.