Mount Rigi: routes, things to do and tickets explained

• Attraction type: Scenic trip, By train;
  Natural site, Mountain top, By train
• Escort: independent (no guide)
• Region: Lake Lucerne (Central Switzerland)
• Duration: 1 day or less

What to expect at the Rigi

The Rigi is a mountainous area near Lucerne, between Küssnacht am Rigi, Goldau and Gersau. It's a typical Swiss green landscape with meadows, forests and grazing cows. The views over Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains are wonderful. 

Since 1871, the area is well connected by cogwheel trains and cable cars. There are many routes between villages in the valley (like Weggis, Vitznau and Arth-Goldau) and several stations in the Rigi hills.

Rigi Kulm is the highest point (1798 m) and offers great views of Lake Lucerne, the Alps in the south and the plains in the north, all the way to Germany. There's a restaurant at the top.

'Queen of the mountains Round Trip'

The 'Majestic Round Trip' or 'Queen of the Mountains Round Trip' is just one option to explore Rigi. Take the boat from Lucerne to Vitznau. Change to the cogwheel train to Rigi Kulm and enjoy the view on the top. Then get back via Arth-Goldau.

'Classic Round Trip'

Take the boat from Lucerne to Vitznau. Change to the cogwheel train to Rigi Kulm. Then take the cogwheel train down to Rigi Kaltbad and change to the cable car down to Weggis. Walk over to the boat (15 minutes) to return to Lucerne.

Hiking

Hiking is one of the main reasons to visit Rigi. There are many cable car and train stations, so you can choose from plenty of routes. There are benches, picnic spots and fireplaces for breaks along the way. Some suggestions:

• We recommend the beautiful panorama trail between Rigi Kaltbad and Rigi Scheidegg. This easy broad path follows the route of a former cogwheel train that once connected both places. 
• You can walk down from Rigi Kulm to the village of Rigi Kaltbad and continue by train from there.
• You can walk from Rigi Staffelhöhe to Freibergen.

Spa experience at Rigi Kaltbad

Rigi Kaltbad is located above the village of Weggis and can be reached by cable car and cogwheel train. Not only is this a picturesque mountain village, it also houses a modern mineral bath and spa, designed by the famous architect Mario Botta. The complex includes a heated outdoor pool with magnificent mountain views. You can spend the night here as well.

Preparation

Check the weather forecast to make sure it will be clear enough to enjoy the view from Rigi Kulm. Also check the timetable. If you plan to hike, make sure you prepare your route and that you have appropriate gear.