Free travel on all mountain railways with the Swiss Travel Pass!

Mount Rigi, known as the "Queen of the Mountains", is surrounded by three lakes: Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and Lake Lauerz. Its panoramic views, accessible trails, and charming villages make it a favorite destination for visitors looking to explore the Swiss Alps.

Rigi is easily accessible by the historic cogwheel trains from Vitznau or Arth-Goldau, or by cable car from Weggis. The journey to the summit, Rigi Kulm, is an experience in itself, offering breathtaking views along the way.

By the way, the cogwheel train from Vitznau is Europe's oldest mountain railway and started operating back in 1871.

At the top, you’re greeted with 360-degree views of the surrounding lakes, rolling hills, and the snow-capped Alps. There’s a restaurant at Rigi Kulm where you can enjoy a meal or a warm drink while soaking in the scenery. In summer, the area is perfect for hiking, with well-marked trails catering to all skill levels. In winter, Rigi transforms into a snow paradise, offering sledding, snowshoeing, and winter hiking.

For a scenic walk, the Rigi Panorama Trail is a popular choice, connecting Rigi Kaltbad to Rigi Kulm. It’s an easy hike with stunning views, making it accessible for families and casual hikers. For a shorter stroll, the path from Rigi Staffel to Rigi Kulm is a quick and rewarding option, offering some of the best vistas in the region.

Seraina’s Tip: For a classic experience, combine a boat ride from Lucerne with the cogwheel train from Vitznau. Whenever I go to Mount Rigi, I try to also catch the boat as it's just a stunning ride. Also, if you own a Swiss Travel Pass, both the boat ride and the mountain railway rides to Rigi are included.