In this part of the world every new place seems just a little more picture postcard perfect than the last and so it was in the city of Lucerne.  Surrounded by snow-capped mountains even when the temperature was in the 30’s and nestled around one of the prettiest lakes in Switzerland it is breathtaking.

Lucerne was a whirlwind as we should have expected with Sabine as our guide. We called her the Energiser Bunny.  After collecting us from Lucerne station on Friday afternoon we had a picnic at Sabine’s kayaking club on Lake Lucerne.  Jim and Sabine went kayaking while I went for a long walk around the beach area of the lake.

 

On Saturday we took the Hammetschwand Elevator to the top of Mt. Bürgenstock.  The tallest outdoor lift in Europe, the lift rises from an underground boarding station to the top of the mountain in less than a minute. First built in 1905, the elevator has survived world wars, the elements, and a modern, safer conversion to give passengers one of the best views of the Alps in Switzerland. With its wall of glass looking out from the cliff-face it is an exhilarating ride. But first there is a fairly gentle half-hour hike up to the lift platform. The views down to Lucerne and the surrounding lakes and mountains from the track were stunning and the effort was well-rewarded.

Despite a strong gale and impending storm we had lunch and took lots of photos at the top. Looking around we realized that pretty much everyone except us had left the summit presumably to beat the storm.  We decided to race the looming storm to the bottom. With lightning flashing and thunder, rain and wind urging us on we made it down wet and wind-blown but unscathed. There’s not much that’s more fun than a good thunderstorm.

 

On Sunday we had a quieter day checking out the historic centre of Lucerne. Cobbled streets, medieval covered bridges and the colourful and busy streets were a highlight. Lucerne is a vibrant city in an ancient setting of natural beauty. Its people are so proud of their heritage and this shines out from every side. The streets are tidy, there is no unsightly graffiti but plenty of modern outdoor art installations. New buildings such as the Lucerne Concert Hall blend gracefully with their old world surroundings and on this day, everyone was out and about enjoying their city.

Although sad to come to the end of our visit with Sabine in Lucerne we were also excited to be going over the Alps to Italy on Monday morning. Thanks so much Sabine for showing us what is now your city.  Your love for Lucerne and pride in the city is obvious to all. Thanks also for your hospitality, for cooking for us and for trusting us with your car for the next leg of our journey. See you soon!