Burgenstock Excursion: Ferry & Funicular – Complete Guide & Review
Alright, so, if you’re checking out Switzerland, then you’ve definitely gotta give Mount Burgenstock a shot. That mountain is, like, super impressive, and the way you get there, with the ferry and that uphill train car called the funicular, is quite special. This isn’t just a way to get up a high peak, mind you, it’s a pretty scenic ride with some beautiful sights to see along the way. Actually, I found the mix of sailing over smooth waters and riding almost straight up a mountain really a total blast.
The Appeal of Mount Burgenstock
Mount Burgenstock, located near Lucerne, has very classy hotels, fancy dining choices, and awesome views looking out across the clear lake waters. The whole place feels both peaceful and extravagant, so it’s really very popular with all types of travelers. The mountain is really up there as one of the fanciest locations in Switzerland, a total contrast to other hiking-only destinations. People actually go there to relax in elegance or for business trips as much as to get out into the nature. That mix is, like, what makes Burgenstock especially attractive, since you get the luxury but it is surrounded by awesome views and hiking opportunities. That’s very smart.
Starting with a Ferry Ride
The first part of getting to Mount Burgenstock is hopping on a boat that takes you right across Lake Lucerne. Now, this isn’t any old boat trip, the ride itself provides fantastic views of the lake and the surrounding alps. The ferries tend to be really modern and pleasant, with spots to sit inside if the weather gets poor and places outside to get sunlight if it is nice. Apparently, the journey offers that cool vibe as you get closer and closer, looking up at Mount Burgenstock. Actually, for most, the ferry ride starts their visit off on a positive note, letting people unwind as they travel very quickly away from the craziness of town. By the way, I just sat there with the alpine breeze, letting my thoughts wander around as the shoreline slid on past. Good stuff.
The Thrill of the Funicular
When you get off the boat, there’s a train that goes up the steep mountain, a funicular, is how you continue that ride up to Burgenstock. By the way, this little railcar isn’t just any average ride; the funicular there is so classic and neat, dating all the way back to the late 1800s. Just sitting inside that polished old wood and fancy decor feels almost like traveling backwards in time. And actually, as you go up, things get really steep so the views that increase down over the lake are simply phenomenal, quite the reward, I felt. So, you might think the train ride up is purely a transportation method, yet the journey itself becomes part of what makes going up to Mount Burgenstock a super experience.
Activities and Experiences on Mount Burgenstock
Once at the top, Mount Burgenstock actually offers all kinds of things for those visiting. You might have an interest in fancy hotels with pools looking out on the horizon, or, maybe a little hike would be the most interesting for you. As a matter of fact, the hotels there deliver service to the richest, pampering to pretty much every comfort possible. Also, for people who want to relax, then the spas will seem appealing. Plus there’s trails up there if seeing some more local scenery might suit you better. To be honest, I enjoyed the walk called the Cliff Walk which juts off of the rock to get awesome views. Whatever the plan, the area ensures you have a pretty fulfilling day.
Dining on the Mountaintop
There’s plenty of chances to eat and drink well when you’re at Mount Burgenstock, so too. There, they offer places that focus on native dishes and ones offering flavors hailing from far outside of Switzerland. That fact is the mix adds extra charm up there. Plenty feature patio areas perfect to see that massive view as you down food, while there also exist locations more tucked away for more intimate gatherings, should that be what you need. I really remember my one dinner sitting outside, so too. The sunset that evening cast those golden rays upon the mountains and gave the lake almost this sparkling surface. Really picturesque!
Tips for Visiting Mount Burgenstock
Should you be thinking of a trip up to Mount Burgenstock, here are some things you may have an interest in learning beforehand: Obviously you’re going to watch that weather prediction. The weather, after all, there can affect what the trip would be, even whether you’ll even want to be outside on any of those patios. Additionally, getting your boat and train car ride booked is helpful to just minimize hold-ups, very useful since there can sometimes happen large tour groups. Check that schedule, that’s a heads up, because timing could change sometimes. Just check online before. Finally, definitely bring those cameras along, you could be missing shots all day.