A Cruise On The Waters Of Lake Lucerne
Lake Lucerne is not just one of the huge alpine lakes that line the entire territory of Switzerland. It is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful and wide, since its waters bathe up to four cantons of the Helvetic Confederation. In short, navigating it is an unmissable experience for all those who travel to Lucerne and want to make an excursion from this beautiful city.
Some facts about Lake Lucerne
There are an estimated 7,000 alpine lakes throughout Switzerland, all of them of glacial origin. In other words, they are millions of years old. Well, one of the most attractive is Lake Lucerne, with its 140 km² area. A surface that reaches about 30 kilometers long by more or less 20 wide.
And as we have said, this lake bathes four cantons : Lucerne and Uri, Unterwalden and Schwyz. By the way, the name of Switzerland comes from the latter toponym, so it could be said that here is the origin of the country.
The lake is fed by the waters of the Reuss River, which runs through Lucerne itself and which has one of the most photographed bridges in Europe at the famous Kapellbrücken. A few meters from there the river flows into the lake and its waters extend to the southeast.
The historic cruises of Lucerne
Knowing the age of cruises on Lake Lucerne, we can already understand the presence of the attractive steamships in the area. Some boats in which their vintage appearance draws attention, since they move thanks to the movement of the huge wheels with paddles that they carry on their sides.
From the lake you can admire forests and alpine peaks, some with perpetual snow. Thus, the experience of sailing in these boats is fascinating. Even more so on sunny and windless days, when the lake becomes an immense mirror in which the mountains are reflected.
Of course, it is an immense pleasure to enjoy these views while enjoying Swiss food in the salons of the elegant boat.
However, they are not the only boats on Lake Lucerne. You can also opt for other faster panoramic yachts. Without a doubt, a great option for travelers in a hurry and less time.
A cruise on Lake Lucerne plus excursion through the surroundings
On the docks of Lucerne there are numerous possibilities for boarding. There are different types of tourist boats, as we have already seen; different schedules; there is the possibility of having lunch or dinner, etc.
In addition, there are cruises that go to the end of Lake Lucerne in Flüelen and return. Others go to some of the most beautiful towns on its shores. And some of them propose combined excursions that include the ascent to some of the surrounding mountains. There is a lot to choose from:
Excursion to mount Rigi
To do this excursion we will have to disembark from the cruise on Lake Lucerne in the port of Vitznau. Here begins the first rack railway, which was launched back in 1871.
The ascent to the highest point is wonderful. But even more so are the views from its almost 1,800 meters high. A location that allows you to enjoy an extensive panoramic view of the mountain range.
Excursion to Mount Pilatus
This other excursion takes us to a higher peak, more than 2,100 meters high. For this reason, it has the steepest rack railway in the world, with a 44% incline. And this is complemented by a cable car. And all this to get to the mountain where legend has it that the remains of Pontius Pilate are.
Discover William Tell
Speaking of legends, the tour of Lake Lucerne and its surroundings serves, above all, to learn about the famous story of William Tell. The great national hero escaped from the tyrant Gessler by sailing on this lake. Then he would kill him with his superb aim for archery.
In short, taking a cruise on Lake Lucerne is the best way to spend a day in this corner of Switzerland. An area that, wherever you look, is always spectacular.
