Holiday in Lake Lucerne

What makes Lake Lucerne special as a destination?

Lake Lucerne, also known as the Lucerne Lake, is the quintessential Swiss lake — fjord-like in shape, surrounded by steep mountains, steeped in history and myth. According to legend, the Swiss Confederation was founded on its shores in 1291, Wilhelm Tell is said to have escaped from the bailiff Gessler here, and the Rütli meadow on the western shore is considered the birthplace of Switzerland. No other Swiss lake connects nature, culture, and national identity as impressively. Lucerne, the pearl by the lake, delights with the iconic Chapel Bridge (the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe from the 14th century), the Water Tower, the dying Lion of Lucerne, and the KKL (Culture and Congress Centre), a masterpiece by Jean Nouvel. The old town with its painted facades and the Musegg Wall with nine towers offers medieval charm right by the water. Five historical paddle steamers and modern motor ships operate on the lake, accessing the most spectacular shore sections. The journey from Lucerne to Flülen at the southern end passes the Tell Chapel, the Rütli meadow, and through narrow rock passages reminiscent of Norwegian fjords. The Bürgenstock, high above the lake, offers an adrenaline kick with the Hammetschwand Lift — the highest outdoor elevator in Europe — and breathtaking views. The Rigi, the Queen of the Mountains, and the Pilatus (2,128m) frame the lake and are accessible by cogwheel train, cable car, and the steepest cogwheel railway in the world. Lake Lucerne is the heart of Switzerland — in both geographical and emotional senses.