Bürgenstock: The Best Views in Lucerne?

Perched above Lake Lucerne, the Bürgenstock is one of Switzerland’s most scenic spots, offering panoramic views of the lake, the city of Lucerne, and the surrounding Alps. At the heart of the experience is the Hammetschwand Lift, the highest outdoor elevator in Europe, shooting you up 152 meters to a breathtaking viewpoint.

How to Make the Most of Your Day

If you’re starting at the Bürgenstock Resort, you’re in for a treat. This luxury hotel is known for its top-tier restaurants, spa, and of course, its incredible views. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can visit their free viewing terrace and soak in the sights of Lake Lucerne, particularly stunning during sunset.

Most visitors head straight for the ridge hike – a well-marked trail that hugs the cliffside and leads directly to the Hammetschwand Elevator. It’s the perfect blend of nature and adventure, offering unforgettable views along the way. Once you reach the elevator, you can take a quick ride to the top (CHF 15 one way, CHF 18 round trip), where even more stunning scenery awaits.

If you’d prefer a different route, you can also hike directly to top of the elevator without taking the ridge trail. This alternative path brings you past the famous Hotel Villa Honegg, with its legendary infinity pool looking out over the mountains – a great photo opportunity if you’re looking for that Instagram-worthy shot.

Getting to Bürgenstock: Your Options

Ferry and Funicular: For the most scenic journey, start with a ferry ride from Lucerne across the glistening waters of Lake Lucerne. The ferry is modern, sleek, and offers amazing views. After the boat ride, hop on the funicular up to the Bürgenstock Resort. The round trip costs CHF 90 but if you have the Swiss Half Fare Card, you only pay half that.
Train and Bus: If you’re traveling on a budget, take the train from Lucerne to Stansstad and switch to Bus 321. This option costs under CHF 20 round trip, but keep in mind that it’s less scenic than the ferry.
By Car: You can also drive directly to the Bürgenstock Resort, with parking available at CHF 4 per hour. This gives you flexibility to explore the area at your own pace.

Hammetschwand Elevator: What You Need to Know

The Hammetschwand Elevator is the highlight of most trips to Bürgenstock. It’s Europe’s tallest outdoor elevator, and the quick ride to the top is absolutely worth it for the views alone. You can take the elevator one way for CHF 15 or get a return trip for CHF 18. If you prefer hiking, the trails up and down are free and offer equally amazing views.

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Practical Information: Covering everything from transportation and weather to safety tips, this guide ensures a smooth and stress-free trip.
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Best Time to Visit

The ridge hike and Hammetschwand Lift are typically open from late April to early November, depending on the weather. The elevator operates from 9:30am to 6:00pm, so plan your day accordingly. If you’re visiting outside these months, don’t worry – the Bürgenstock Resort and its terrace are open year-round.

Tips for Your Visit

Comfortable shoes are a must. While the trails are generally well-maintained, some sections can be uneven, so make sure to wear shoes that can handle a bit of terrain.
Check the weather before you go. The Hammetschwand Lift can close due to bad weather, so be sure to check conditions ahead of time to avoid any surprises.