My first overseas holiday was in Switzerland so it always has a special place in my heart.
We alighted at Zurich and took the train to Lucerne (Luzern), just an hour south. Everything functions precisely … on Swiss time … from the moment you get off the plane, to the driverless train with the mooing cow. Travelling between neighbouring cities on the super fast trains is easy. You can get a 1, 2, 3-day rail pass or longer depending on the duration of your stay.
Nestled in the foothills of the Swiss Alps, this picturesque location is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. It is a small city with proud and polite people.
Main attractions
Kapelbrucke
The famous Kapelbrucke or Chapel Bridge spans the River Reuss. Covered with a moss canopy and fringed with flowers, this historic 700-year old bridge has survived the ravages of age and fire.
Hofkirche Cathedral
The lovely old Gothic cathedral stands tall with its twin spires. It is within walking distance of the station and Lake Lucerne.
Lion Monument
The Lion Monument pays tribute to the Swiss guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution.
Glass factory in Hergiswil
Watch the glassblowers as they create some incredible products which make great gifts.
Day trips to the mountains
A trip to one of the mountain peaks is a must. Mt Titlis, Mt Pilatus, Mt Stanserhorn are a couple of hours away. You can visit them as a day trip from Lucerne.
We took the aerial cableway from Engelberg Valley to the glacier’s summit and magical views of the Swiss Alps. You can visit the Glacier Cave and ride in the Ice Flyer chairlift. It was an exhilarating feeling in the open chairlift but it was freezing. Seeing snow for the first time ever on Mount Titlis was one of the highlights for me.
Dining
Dine on a traditional Swiss meal and enjoy a cultural show at one of the local restaurants. You can partake of the local fare … fondue, with a variety of cheeses and sausages, washed down with Swiss lager and some yodelling.
Lake cruise
Embark on a cruise of Lake Lucerne (German name: Vierwaldstättersee). We boarded a paddle steamer at Ennetburgen, a bit further away from Lucerne.
For a couple of hours, it felt like we were in a mobile art gallery. At every turn of the head, you are presented with nature’s canvas of lush greenery and cascading falls. Low clouds bring misty rain over the quaint houses with their hanging flower baskets. William Tell, the legendary archer, is believed to have escaped here. A monument has been built in his honour.
Road trip
Head south to Milan which is a short distance across the border. Using the Gotthard Pass, you can drive past Lake Como and Lugano on winding roads, overlooking some stunning scenery.
Shopping
Buy a Swiss watch and Swiss chocolate, which I did! Or a cuckoo clock, which I regretfully did not.
My cousin resides here and I was grateful for her invitation to visit. Waking up to magical views of the lake and mountains while sipping coffee on the balcony is the ultimate treat. This place is beautiful in summer. If you’re into skiing, you will love it in winter.
Lucerne’s incredible natural beauty leaves a lasting impression and will make you want to return.
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