Lucerne (Switzerland). Lucerne is a city and lake in Switzerland. Lake Firvaldstätt Cruise schedule on Lake Firvaldstätt

The settlement (Switzerland) is located in the central part of the country on the Swiss plateau and is the administrative center of the canton with the same name. On the site of the modern city, the first settlements appeared during the heyday of the Roman Empire. However, the official date of formation of the settlement is 1178. Until this moment, Lucerne was a large village. The city of Lucerne is located on the shores of a picturesque lake; it is called the cradle of Switzerland. There are three cantons here, whose representatives entered into an agreement in the summer of 1291, which marked the beginning of the creation of one of the most successful states in the world.

General information

The city of Lucerne in Switzerland arose in the 8th century in the northern part of Lake Firwaldstät, where there used to be a Benedictine monastery. The settlement was the first to enter the region; today it is a small resort town with excellent European infrastructure, where tourists from all over the world like to come. Lucerne is rightfully considered the most interesting and beautiful city in Switzerland. This is a great place for those who do not like and do not know how to relax away from civilization.

This is interesting! Lucerne received the status of a gateway to central Switzerland. A huge number of local legends and fairy tales are associated with this city. Mention of the settlement occurs in stories about William Tell.

Tourism appeared here in the 19th century; Mark Twain loved to come here; after visiting Lucerne, the writer called for the return of the tourist trade and souvenir business to him. Fortunately, the writer’s opinion was listened to, and thanks to this, the town is developing and thriving.

Considering that Lucerne is a resort town, there are many shops here. The most popular souvenir shop is Kazanrande; they sell everything that Switzerland is famous for - watches, knives, chocolate. There is a SBB Rail City shopping center next to the train station. Traditional work schedule:

on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday – from 9-00 to 18-30,
on Thursday and Friday – from 9-00 to 20-00,
on Saturday – until 16-00,
Sunday is a day off.

Lucerne, photo of the city.

Attractions

Lucerne is a small town located on the shores of a picturesque lake and is rightfully proud of an exceptional number of historical, architectural and natural attractions. It is here that the most modern Transport Museum is located, as well as the unique Glacier Garden, where you can see that Switzerland was once part of the tropics and many other interesting places.

On a note! Lucerne is a compact city, so all the sights can be explored on foot. When planning a trip, be sure to make a list of attractions in Lucerne with photos and descriptions.

At an altitude of just over 2 km, tourists are offered a large selection of entertainment. Pilatus is a wonderful holiday destination for those who want to experience the splendor of the Alps, but do not want to give up city life.

Interesting to know! Translated, Pilatus means felt hat.

There are several ways to get to the top:

by train - this route is the most exciting, the journey takes about 30 minutes, a round-trip ticket will cost 72 francs;
take trolleybus No. 1 from Lucerne to Kriens and take a cable car to the top of the mountain, the route takes 30 minutes;
physically fit people can climb the mountain on foot, it will take about 4 hours.

Good to know! At the top there is a lot of entertainment - a rope park, a snow park, a Powerfan attraction, rock climbing. Restaurants are open and hotels accept tourists.

On the map of Lucerne attractions, the legendary lake with its unique cross shape occupies a special place, as it is considered a symbol of Switzerland. To admire the view of the lake surface, it is best to climb to Pilatus Peak. You can also take a cruise ship cruise on the lake. While relaxing in the city, you should definitely walk along the picturesque embankment, visit a cozy cafe and look at the beautiful swans.

On a note! Lake Lucerne is also called the Lake of the Four Cantons because it is located in four regions of Switzerland.

The best period to visit the lake is August 1. On this day, in honor of the founding of Switzerland, a fireworks display was organized on the lake. The cost of cruise tickets varies depending on the duration of the trip - from 20 to 50 CHF.

Mount Rigi

Locals call it the Queen of the Mountains; in the mid-19th century, a mountain cogwheel railway was launched here, which connected the peak with the station in Vitznau. From the top point you can see the central part of Switzerland.

How to get to the top of Riga:

on the Weggis cable car;
trains from Art-Goldau station;
trains from Vitznau.

The duration of the climb is 40 minutes. The cost of a round-trip ticket is from 55 francs. You can purchase a day ticket. Prices depend on the availability of additional services included in the ticket. All prices and schedules can be viewed on the official website www.rigi.ch/en.

Entertainment in Riga:

toboggan run;
skis;
hiking;
thermal baths.

Kappellebrücke Bridge

This landmark of Lucerne in Switzerland is named after St. Peter's Chapel; it is from here that the history of the development and formation of the city began. The chapel is located in the old part of the city, next to an ancient wooden bridge built in the mid-14th century.

The Kappellbrücke Bridge is not just a landmark, but a symbol of the city, its calling card. Its length is 202 meters. The bridge is decorated with unique frescoes that date back to the 17th century. There are no other similar frescoes in Europe. A water tower was built at the edge of the bridge, which over the years was used as a dungeon, a treasury, and today there is a souvenir shop.

Transport Museum

The Swiss Transport Museum in Lucerne is the best interactive museum in all of Europe. More than three thousand exhibits occupy an area of 40 thousand square meters. Here you can clearly trace the history of the development of all types of transport - urban, rail, air and even space.

On a note! The museum especially attracts children, because here you can try to drive a locomotive and find yourself on a space station. One exhibition is located outdoors.

Lidostrasse 5.

You can visit the museum:

in summer – from 10-00 to 18-00;
in winter – from 10-00 to 17-00.

Ticket prices:

adult – 32 francs;
student (up to 26 years old) – 22 francs;
children (up to 16 years old) – 12 francs;
Children under 6 years of age enter free of charge.

Old city

Weinmarkt

This is the most atmospheric part of Lucerne. Every building here has its own history. Be sure to take a walk along the northern bank of the Reuss River, appreciate the beauty of the medieval facades, and visit the small church of St. Peterskapelle. A hundred meters away are the old public market and the city hall. Moving west, you will find yourself at the Weinmarkt, where important ceremonies used to take place.

Hofkirche Church

On the right bank of the Reuss River, the neighborhoods form the Kleinstadt region, which used to be an outpost of the city. Nearby stands the Jesuitenkirche, decorated in the Rococo style. To the west is the Knight's Palace, and behind it is the Franciscan Church. Moving along Pfistergasse street, you can come to another ancient attraction - the Spreuerbrucke bridge, nearby is the Historical Museum. Be sure to visit the Hofkirche, which was built on the site of the city's first monastery.

This is interesting! The ancient part of the city is surrounded by hills, fortified by the Museggmauer fortress wall. One of the nine towers is decorated with a clock that is constantly late. Only three towers are open to the public.

Monument to the Dying Lion

This landmark of Lucerne is one of the most famous in all of Switzerland. Located at Denkmalstrasse 4. A monument was erected here in honor of the soldiers of the Swiss Guard who bravely defended the Tuileries Palace and Queen Marie Antoinette.

The attraction is a figure of a lion carved into the rock. The animal is defeated by a spear and covers the coat of arms of Switzerland with its body. An inscription is carved under the monument - for the devotion and courage of the Swiss.

A unique attraction featuring paintings by Picasso. In addition, the collection includes works by cubists, surrealists, fauvists and abstractionists.

You can visit the attraction at: Pilatusstrasse 10. Schedule:

from April to October – from 10-00 to 18-00;
from November to March – from 10-00 to 17-00.

Ticket prices:

full – 18 CHF;
for pensioners – 16 CHF;
children and students – 10 CHF.

Despite the rather unsightly name - the Waste Bridge - the attraction attracts millions of tourists. It is the second oldest bridge in Europe, built in the early 15th century. In the 16th century, the landmark was destroyed by flood and completely restored.

The bridge is located on the Reuss River, next to the Kappelbrücke bridge. On its roof you can see unique frescoes from the Middle Ages, the most famous being the Dance of Death. Not far from the bridge, a chapel was built in honor of the Virgin Mary.

An un-Swiss refined and luxurious Jesuit church, built in the Baroque style in the mid-17th century. The attraction is located next to the Kappelbrücke bridge. At the end of the last century, a new organ was installed in the temple; you can listen to its sound by attending a concert on a holiday.

Note! Tourists love to just sit on the steps at the entrance to the church and relax after a walk around the city, dipping their feet in the river.

The attraction can be visited daily from 6-30 to 18-30.

For Switzerland, this is a rather rare attraction, since in other cities of the country most of such structures have been destroyed. The length of the wall is 870 m, it connects nine towers from the Middle Ages, but only three can be visited. The appearance of the fortress has remained virtually unchanged. The top of the Manly Tower is decorated with a figurine of a soldier, and the Lugisland Tower was a watchtower.

You can visit the towers from 8-00 to 19-00, from November 2 to March 30, the attraction is closed for safety reasons.

The attraction is dedicated to the geological and geographical history of Lucerne. Here you can visit a subtropical garden that grew on the territory of modern Switzerland 20 million years ago; glaciers have been recreated.

The exhibition clearly demonstrates how the topography of the city and country has changed; models of the most famous natural formations and landscapes of Switzerland are also presented.

Guests walk through the picturesque gardens and go up to the observation deck. The Mirror Maze is of great interest.

The attraction is located at: Denkmalstrasse, 4. Schedule:

from April to October – from 9-00 to 18-00;
from November to March – from 10-00 to 17-00.

The garden is open seven days a week and on holidays.

Ticket price– 15 francs for adults, 12 for students and 8 for children from 6 to 16 years old.

The main temple of the city, built in the mid-17th century on the site of a Roman basilica. The building is decorated in German style, with an altar of the Virgin Mary built inside, which is decorated with black marble. The outside of the temple is surrounded by a gallery of arches and statues of saints. One of the altars of the Hofkirche temple is consecrated in honor of the Holy Spirit.

You can visit the church every day from 9-00 to 12-00 and from 14-00 to 16-30. It is located at: Adligenswilerstrasse, Dreilinden, St. Leodegar im Hof (Hofkirche).

It is included in the list of the most modern and original attractions of the city. The building was built in 2000. Inside there is a concert hall with the best sound in Europe, an art museum, a congress hall and exhibition spaces.

The structure is divided into three parts, with the Roys River flowing between them. Thus, the architect wanted to emphasize the analogy of the structure with a ship. At the Center you must:

visit a unique hall decorated with maple;
view the exhibits of the Museum of Art;
relax on the terrace.

The attraction is located at: Kultur und Kongresszentrum, Europaplatz, 1.

Center opened from 9-00 to 18-00, admission to the foyer is free.

Kornarkt Square

The ancient square, which is the heart of Lucerne. You can get here via the Kappelbrücke bridge. Each house on the square is a luxurious monument of medieval architecture; the facades are decorated with frescoes and original inscriptions. The most notable attraction is the City Hall.

Note! A huge number of shops and boutiques are concentrated here, so shopping lovers come here to do their shopping.

Where to stay

The city is popular among tourists, so in high season it is better to book a hotel room in advance. If you want to save money on accommodation, the best time to go to Lucerne is in the fall.

There are many hotels in the city with different levels of comfort. Of course, the cost of living is quite high, but this is not surprising, given the high standard of living in Switzerland.
Prices for accommodation in three-star hotels:

Aparthotel Adler Luzern

Aparthotel Adler Luzern – located in the city center, a room costs from 104 francs.
Seeburg Swiss Quality Hotel – located 2.5 km from the center, price for a double room – from 125 CHF.
Hotel Fox – 900 m from the center, room costs from 80 CHF.

Cost of living in hostels in Lucerne:

Bellpark Hostel

Bellpark Hostel – located 2.5 km from the city center, a bed in a dormitory room for 5 people costs from 28 CHF (breakfast included), a private room – from 83 CHF.
Luzern Youth Hostel – located 650 m from the center, cost of a bed from 31 CHF (breakfast included).

Find out PRICES or book any accommodation using this form

Where to eat and how much it costs

The city's network of restaurants and cafes is undoubtedly a landmark of Lucerne. The idea of the resort will be incomplete without getting acquainted with the local cuisine.

Interesting fact! There are about 250 of the best restaurants in Switzerland in Lucerne.

The best cheap places to eat in Lucerne

Name	Address	Peculiarities	Average bill for 2 people, CHF
Bolero at the Cascada Swiss Quality Hotel	Bundesplatz 18, near the center	The menu features Mediterranean, Spanish and Mexican cuisine. Visitors are given interactive tablets with descriptions and photos of dishes. Be sure to try the paella.	80-100
La Cucina	Pilatusstrasse 29, city center	The restaurant specializes in Italian, Mediterranean and European cuisines. There is a menu for vegetarians. We recommend trying the carpaccio soup and chocolate mousse. It is better to book a table in advance.	80-100
Mamma Leone	Muehlenplatz 12	Italian restaurant. They serve delicious pasta and pizza here. Children are offered pencils and sketchbooks as entertainment.	60-80
GourmIndia	Baselstrasse, 31	Restaurant serving Indian and Asian cuisines, there is a menu for vegetarians. Colorful, authentic interior in Indian style. It is located far enough from the center, so it is calm and not crowded.	55-75

Helpful information! A meal at a fast food restaurant will cost 14 Swiss francs. Coffee costs on average from 4.5 francs, water 0.33 - 3.5-4 francs, a bottle of beer - from 5 to 8 francs.

All prices on the page are for January 2018.

How to get to Lucerne from Zurich

Lucerne train station

The easiest and fastest way to get from Zurich to Lucerne is by train. Over the course of an hour, 4 trains depart towards the resort. Average travel time is 45 minutes. Ticket prices depend on the class of carriage and route - from 6.00 to 21.20 euros.

You can get to Lucerne with transfers:

one transfer in the city of Zug (the journey takes 1 hour);
two transfers - in Zug and Thalvil (the journey takes 1 hour 23 minutes).

It is better to check the schedule and ticket prices in advance on the official website of the railway station.

Compare accommodation prices using this form

Chapel Bridge

Finally, we bring to your attention a detailed map of Lucerne with attractions in Russian. Print it out and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this unique Swiss city.

High-quality filming, including from the air - watch the video to better understand what the Swiss city of Lucerne looks like.

There is a wonderful place in Switzerland - Lucerne. This toponym names the German-speaking canton of the state, a beautiful medieval city and a marvelous lake. The ancient city is the capital of a canton with a population of almost 60,000 German speakers and the heart of Switzerland. Lucerne is considered the essence of this northern country and its soul.

Switzerland, or rather its central part, where the ancient town is located, is incredibly popular among tourists. There are a lot of impressive entertainments here: boat cruises on the lake, excursions to historical and natural monuments, romantic walks, panoramic views, evening shows in clubs, restaurants and other entertainment venues.

City location

In the center of the country, along the coast of Lake Firvaldstät, at the source of the Reuss River, numerous streets of Lucerne are spread out. The city in Switzerland, surrounded by picturesque hills and mountain ranges, the peaks of which are covered with snow-white caps, is filled with the amazing attributes of the country. Some of them are full of greatness, others - charm, others - joy and fun.

City symbols

Here, ancient relics are perfectly preserved, harmoniously merging with the rich infrastructure of modern times. Winding cobbled streets are lined with ancient houses painted with intricate patterns, pictures and family trees of the families who live in them. This is an ideal place where travelers come to relax from everyday life.

Lucerne (Switzerland) is dotted with parks and wooden bridges built in ancient times. It has preserved an ancient fortress, from the walls of which amazing views of the Riga and Pilates mountain ranges open. Here, buildings with unusual, trendy designs look great against the backdrop of ancient buildings erected several centuries ago.

In Lucerne, the narrow streets of the old quarter, free of cars, smoothly flow into modern squares with shops and boutiques, the windows of which are filled with exquisite goods: Swiss souvenirs, exclusive watches, jewelry, stylish accessories and other branded products.

Tours to Lucerne

It is not without reason that Switzerland (Lucerne) enjoys the reputation of an attractive travel destination. A tour to the capital of the Swiss canton leaves an indelible impression. The embankment of the ancient town is ideal for all kinds of pleasant entertainment. Vacationers ride on a sailboat or boat, windsurfing boards, and water skis.

They leisurely stroll along the coasts, have picnics in special areas, have a snack in restaurants and cafes, admiring the picturesque views from the windows and terraces of cozy establishments, and join carnival processions. Tourists enjoy having fun at the first-class golf center and winter skating rinks. Travelers are delighted with the Center for Fishing Lovers. They offer equipment rentals and organize fishing trips.

Lucerne is famous for its vibrant nightlife. Switzerland and all its resort towns (including the capital of the canton) are replete with grandiose entertainment venues. The colossal casino is the center of tourist attraction in the ancient city. Here guests indulge in excitement and enjoy enchanting concerts and shows. In clubs run by famous DJs, vacationers explode the dance floor during mind-blowing discos.

Lake Firvaldstätt

Lake Lucerne is a legendary body of water in Switzerland, which also has other names. It is often referred to as Lake Firvaldstätt. The first name is given in honor of the area where it is spread out - the canton of Lucerne. Switzerland is a country of majestic northern mountains. A picturesque reservoir with clear blue waters is surrounded by famous mountain ranges - these are Rigi and Pilat.

The incredible blue of the crystal clear waters gives it a fabulous look and incredible beauty. The lake, framed by emerald forests, is formed by four basins connected through narrow straits. Its basin arose as a result of the collapse of ancient gigantic glaciers, sliding down from the majestic mountain peaks. The Roys River, the Aare branch, flows into it. Thanks to the river, the waters in the lake are flowing.

Fun on Lake Lucerne

The shipping company regularly transports passengers and organizes interesting cruises on the water body for tourists. The wonderful Lake Lucerne (Switzerland) is the most picturesque body of water in the state, its calling card. Old steamboats and new beautiful boats ply along it and the Royce River.

The lake offers views of stunning mountains and embankments of cities with unforgettable Swiss buildings. Travelers enjoy the stunning architecture of luxurious villas, the Habsburg residence, the statue of Jesus and the city's coastal landscapes, leaving them with ecstatic feelings. Pedal races and steamship parades are held on the lake. In short, here every traveler will find entertainment to his liking.

Lake Vierwaldstättersee Literally from German it means “Lake of the Four Lands” or “Lake of the Four Cantons”. This name was given because the waters of this lake wash the shores of four cantons at once. Although tourists often call it simply Lake Lucerne- according to the most popular and largest city on the coast.

This lake is often called the fjords of Switzerland - its winding shores are so picturesque. In fact, Lake Firvaldstätt consists of four basins connected by narrow straits, and the basin was formed by ancient glaciers descending from the mountains. The clear, deep blue water warms up to 18 - 20 degrees in summer.

The best time is August 1 to watch the fireworks on Lake Lucerne in honor of the founding of Switzerland. After all, it was on the shores of Lake Firwaldstätt that the eternal treaty of alliance was signed, which became the origin of Switzerland.

Villa Senar and Rachmaninov

Thanks to the natural barrier to the cold northern winds in the form of, the area around the town of Weggis has developed its own subtropical microclimate - palm trees, figs and magnolias grow naturally. So this place is a wonderful summer resort, popular among the respectable public.

In this area, in the town of Hertenstein, commune of Weggis, composer Sergei Rachmaninov built his villa Senar. In it, with views of Mount Pilatus and Lake Firwaldstätt, he lived in the summer months from 1932 to 1934, and then completely moved to this villa and lived here until 1940. The layout of the villa and the two-story manor house is completely for the nostalgic reasons of the emigrant corresponded to the estate he left in Russia in Ivanovka (Tambov region), a similar garden was laid out with the same trees - apple trees, maples and chestnuts. In this villa, the composer wrote “Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini,” one of his most famous and frequently performed works in the 21st century. Rachmaninov wanted to be buried here, but due to the outbreak of war he was forced to move to the USA, where he died and was buried.

By 2013, the Senar estate had preserved original furnishings, furniture, musical instruments, a Steinway grand piano, donated to the composer by V. Steinway, unique items of cultural heritage of S. V. Rachmaninov - diaries, sheet music, correspondence, archive. At the moment, the issue of buying the villa from the heirs of the Russian Federation and turning it into a museum of the composer is being discussed. The issue price is about 18 million Swiss francs.

Cruises on Lake Firvaldstätt:

A cruise across the entire Lake Firwaldstätt takes about 4 hours one way (from to). The cruise to Vitznau lasts about 1 hour. Ships operate all year round, but there are fewer trips in winter. There are themed circular cruises.

Cruise schedule on Lake Firvaldstät:

Winter cruise schedule from December 11, 2016 to April 13, 2017
Cruise schedule in the spring from April 14 to May 24, 2017
Summer cruise schedule from May 25th to September 10th, 2017
Autumn cruise schedule from September 11th to October 22nd, 2017
Winter cruise schedule for the period October 23 – December 9, 2017

Cruises from Lucerne:

Map of cruise routes on Lake Firvaldstät:

Ticket prices for cruises on Lake Lucerne:

Tickets available for cruises on Lake Vierwaldstätt: Generalabonnemente, n. In this case, you do not need to pay anything extra.

You can get a 50% discount on a lake ticket with tickets:

Children 6 - 16 years old - 50% tariff.

Children under 5 years old inclusive are free.

Cost of one-way 2nd class tickets per adult:

Cruise Lucerne - Weggis: CHF 19.60
Cruise Lucerne - Vitznau: CHF 27.00
Cruise Lucerne - Beckenried: CHF 31.00
Cruise Lucerne - Brunnen: CHF 39.00
Cruise Lucerne - Rütli: CHF 41.00
Cruise Lucerne - Sisikon: CHF 43.00
Cruise Lucerne - Tellsplatte: CHF 44.00
Cruise Lucerne - Fluelen: CHF 46.00
Cruise Lucerne - Alpnachstadt: CHF 27.00
Cruise Lucerne - Küstnacht am Rigi: CHF 27.00

Tagesbillett (all day):

Adults: CHF 72.00 / CHF 108.00 2nd and 1st class respectively
With Halbtax, children: CHF 36.00 / CHF 54.00 2nd and 1st class respectively
Upgrade from 1st to 2nd class: CHF 18.00

Ticket for Panoramic Yacht Saphir (1-hour circular cruise from Lucerne)

With halbtax: CHF 15.00
Without halbtax: CHF 25.00
With t GA / Swiss Travel Pass / InterRail / Eurail and children 6 – 16 years old: CHF 12.50

Spazier- und Stadtschiff (hopp on, hopp in the Lucerne part of the lake) - for the whole day:

With halbtax: CHF 12.00
Without halbtax: CHF 24.00

Tell-Pass for Central Switzerland:

Free travel on trains, buses, ships and mountain lifts

2 days CHF 170.00 / CHF 100.00
3 days CHF 200.00 / CHF 130.00
4 days CHF 220.00 / CHF 150.00
5 days CHF 230.00 / CHF 160.00
10 days CHF 280.00 / CHF 200.00
Kinder-Tell-Pass (fixed price for 2 - 10 days) CHF 30.00 / CHF 30.00

Hiking around Lake Firvaldstätt:

Around Lake Firvaldstät there are many beautiful hiking routes with excellent views and all levels of difficulty. In good weather, this is an ideal place for a walk. For example, to the Rütli meadow, where the agreement on “Eternal Peace” was signed by representatives of the three forest cantons, and thus Switzerland was born.

The route along the shore of Lake Lucerne is very easy, even children can handle it. In order to enjoy panoramic views of the lake, it is worth climbing the mountains. A wide panoramic view opens from. You can generally enjoy the views from the panoramic windows of the Riga Kaltbad thermal baths. From Pilatus the view is spectacular due to the jutting teeth of the rocks, but not as panoramic. An excellent view of the lake also opens from Bürgenstock.

Rigi (1797 m)

In summer:

From either side: 41 CHF one way, 66 CHF both ways. Day ticket - 66 CHF.

In winter:

Skis and snowboard (full day and day ski pass from 11:45):
Adults: 47 CHF/ 42 CHF
Children 6 - 16: 23 CHF / 19 CHF
students: 36 CHF/ 33 CHF

Sled:

adults: 47 CHF
children 6 - 16: 23 CHF

Location: Central Switzerland
Regions: Uri, Schwyz, Lucerne, Obwalden, Nidwalden
Height above sea level: 434 m
Square: 113.8 km²
Greatest depth: 214 m

There is an ancient legend: when God created the world, he sent an angel to pour water into all the lakes. Flying over the Alps, the angel held a vessel of water in his hands, but accidentally touched one of the mountain peaks, and the water spilled onto the valley. At this place a lake of extraordinary beauty appeared, the shape of which resembles a cross.

Basic information

Lake Firvaldstät is also known as the Lake of the Four Cantons. Previously, there were four cantons on its banks: Schwyz, Uri and Unterwalden. Therefore, in guidebooks it is also called Lake Lucerne. Later, Unterwalden was divided into two semi-cantons: Nidwalden and Obwalden, but they did not rename the reservoir.

This lake is located in the central part and is one of the main attractions that constantly attracts tourists. Thanks to this, it became a state property. Concerts are held here every year for a select audience. One interesting fact is worth mentioning: Beethoven’s “Moonlight” sonata received its name after music critic L. Relshtab compared it with the moonlight over Lake Firvaldstätt.

It is conveniently located at an altitude of four hundred and thirty-four meters, in an intermountain tectonic depression that was formed during the Ice Age, and occupies part of the foothills in the territory. The lake consists of four basins, which are connected to each other by rather narrow - up to one kilometer - straits. Its area is 113.78 km², and its maximum depth is 214 meters.

In spring, the lake’s water reserves are replenished thanks to the runoff of melted Alpine glaciers. The Reuss River flows through the lake, so it is a flowing lake. Tourists are always attracted here by the sky-blue water, which is so transparent that it reflects the mountainous terrain of the shores. If you dream of swimming in the blue expanses, then it is best to visit the lake in the summer, when the water warms up to twenty degrees and the comfortable and modern beaches begin to open.

Sights and excursions

Here you can tour the mountain ranges, admire the sights of the Swiss Alps, and visit the zoo, which has collected all the flora and fauna of the reserve. Tourists will find entertainment for every taste: ride a toboggan, be a climber in a rope park, ride a bike along the lake, be impressed by the picturesque nature, and visit historical monuments.

Lake Vierwaldstätt in Switzerland is navigable; there are both regular transportation provided by the shipping company Schifffahrtsgesellschaft des Vierwaldstättersees, and cruises. There are also several small companies that run scenic boat trips, and there is a car ferry service between Gersau and Beckenried.

Major resorts

Speaking about holidays on Lake Firvaldstätt in Switzerland, I would like to mention four main resorts:

Bürgenstock. It is the oldest and most famous European mountain resort, which is located secluded and at the same time close to civilization. This unique place has crystal clear and slightly rarefied air that can have healing properties. It has been noted that it helps with prolonged depression and chronic insomnia, relieves stress and fatigue, restores strength and heals the body.
Weggis. A small town located on the shores of Lake Firvaldstät. It is the very heart of Central Switzerland and is located at an altitude of four hundred thirty-five meters above sea level. This resort has a mild climate, sheltered from the wind and lush greenery, making it ideal for a relaxing family holiday.
Vitznau. This is a harmonious and calm city on the shores of Lake Lucerne in Switzerland, which is located at the foot of Mount Rigi. The peculiarity of the resort is the amazing beauty of the area and the combination of various opportunities - it is a sports and family holiday in the lap of wild nature. In addition, you can visit the top of Mount Rigi using cable cars or explore one of the city's attractions - the artillery fortress, which keeps the secrets of the Swiss army.
Brunnen. A charming town located on the shores of Lake Firvaldstät, which has the most convenient geographical location and is famous for its amazing landscapes. This ideal place will especially please those who are tired of the hustle and bustle of mass tourism and want to have a varied and fulfilling holiday.

How to get there?

The most convenient way for tourists to get to Lake Firvaldstätt is from

It may be difficult for some to remember this German name, but the lake itself will not be forgotten: in former times it was destined to become the unifier of the Swiss lands, its surroundings remember the march of Suvorov’s army, and today it is a center of elite tourism, high-class music festivals and original shows .

BY THE NEGLIGENCE OF AN ANGEL

Legend has it that an angel, flying over the future Switzerland, was supposed to fill the lakes of the country by divine order. Clinging to an alpine peak, he spilled water, and it filled the valley and foothills, taking the shape of a cross - as if blessing the inhabitants for a happy life. This is how Lake Firvaldstätt appeared.

One of the most important lakes in the history of Switzerland, around which the territories of this free country gradually began to form, is located in its central part. It covers the Swiss plateau and the foothills of the Alps. Lake Firvaldstätt is located in a large depression of the plateau, left over from the ice age of the Pleistocene era (about 700 thousand years ago) and creating a shape reminiscent of a cross. With its sharp southeastern end, this water cross rests on the northern slopes of the Alps, located on the territory of the German-speaking canton of Uri. Further, the lake unites flat (400-600 m above sea level) cantons, also German-speaking: Nidwalden stretches along the southern shore of the central part, part of the coast belongs to Obwalden, and the northern slopes are divided by Schwyz and Lucerne, the latter got the northwestern part of the lake (or upper end of the cross).

It was here, on the picturesque shore of Lake Firwaldstät, that the inhabitants of the cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden (later divided into Nidwalden and Obwaldei) entered into an alliance on August 1, 1291, according to which they promised to support each other in the fight against numerous enemies who had repeatedly tried to appropriate such picturesque places for themselves. . At that time, in comparison with the more politically active lands in the regions of the Jura and Upper Rhine mountains, the so-called “forest cantons” on the lake shore seemed almost “abandoned” territory. And yet these lands did not leave the sphere of interests of the royal house of Habsburg. The union of "forest cantons" was concluded on the Rütli meadow. Soon the canton of Lucerne joined them - so the lake united four provinces around itself. This place is marked with the national flag. A national holiday is held here every year. Schwyz gave the name to the whole of Switzerland, and the number four is still heard in the name of the lake (vier - from German “four”: the name of the lake can be literally translated as “Four forest cantons by the lake”), although Unterwalden was divided into two parts.

The lake consists of four basins, which are connected by rather narrow (up to 1 km) straits. The glacial origin determined the rather significant depth (about 200 m) and the elongated shape of not only this, but also other Swiss lakes. Water reserves are replenished by melt runoff from alpine glaciers, so in summer there is a rise in the lake level (on average up to 1 m). The water has a blue tint and is highly transparent, complementing the picturesque mountainous shores. The southern part is called Alpnach, and the most extreme point from the east is Urner.

The first settlements around the lake appeared more than 2000 years ago. Cities grew in their place: for example, Lucerne, which gave the lake its second name - Lucerne. Despite the legendary Swiss neutrality, the lake still went down in military history.

From 1230 the land of the current cantons of Schwyz. Nidwalden. Obwalden and Uri became transit points: European transport flows passed through them and the most important Alpine pass of Saint Gotthard. That year, the “Devil’s Bridge” was built at the pass, a wooden crossing over the Reuss River, which flows into Lake Lucerne. The struggle for control of the Alpine trails caused constant conflicts. With the growing role of the pass, cattle breeding and servicing of travelers began to take place in the area of the lake. Professional guides through the mountains, “zoymers,” appeared. The lake itself was used for transportation - “associations” of shipowners arose. The labor force not involved in agriculture turned into a military one: the number of hired soldiers grew. Local residents were accustomed to providing for themselves and living independently.

The coastal cantons are literally blessed with a cross-shaped lake
for a prosperous life. In order to preserve the beauty and ecology of Lake Firvaldstät, local residents are ready to spend significant amounts of money. Nature did not remain in its debt: a beautiful lake with clear blue water is included in all tourist routes and provided the region with a stable influx of tourists, including high-income ones.

HISTORY IN THE LAKE REFLECTION

The quiet waters of Lake Firvaldstät have always attracted revolutionaries, creative bohemians and many other historically and culturally significant characters.

It is no coincidence that the first Swiss union of 1291 was born on the shores of the free Lake Firvaldstätt, which five centuries later found itself on the path of A.V. Suvorov (1730-1800) when he crossed the Alps in 1799. Having walked along the coast, overcome the Saint Gotthard Pass and survived the battle with the French at the “Devil’s Bridge”, the great Russian commander hoped to go to the city of Schwyz (the capital of the canton of the same name) to reunite with the troops of the commander A. M. Rimsky-Korsakov (1753 -1840). The cards deceived the Generalissimo: a rock stretched from Altdorf (the capital of the canton of Uri) to Schwyz. Through the Roshtok ridge, the Russian army from Altdorf reached the lake from the side of the valley of the Muota River, which flows into the lake near the city of Brunnen. At the pass, the national museum tells about the battle between the Russians and the French, and the monument to Suvorov (1999) by the sculptor D.N. Tugarinov is tragically and realistically designed: the field marshal is presented in the form of an exhausted horseman, whose horse is led by conductor Antonio Gamla. In the village of Muotatal there is a house with an inscription saying that Suvorov stopped here, and on Swiss maps some paths are marked like this: “Suvorov’s path in 1799.”

On the eve of 1917, these places attracted Russian revolutionaries: in 1915, the Zinoviev couple vacationed in the village of Hertenstein and gladly exchanged cherries for mushrooms with the Lenin family, who were visiting Zerenberg. From 1932 to 1939, in the same Hertenstein at the Senar villa (from the first letters of the names of the Rachmaninovs - Sergei and Natalya), where there was a flower garden of a thousand varieties of roses, the family of the outstanding Russian composer lived. Goethe, Wagner, Tolstoy, Turgenev, Balmont, Chagall, Chaplin, and Picasso drew inspiration from the shores of the lake.

During World War II, bunkers were established on the rocky shores of the lake, as well as in mountainous areas throughout Switzerland. More than 700 of them were subsequently written off and went on sale. Some find very original uses: in a bunker at an altitude of 2500 m in the area of St. Gotthard, an expensive hotel “Claustra” is equipped, and in the Fürigen bunker near the town of Stanstad (canton of Nidwalden) the historical reality show “Alpine Fortress - Life in a Bunker” is filmed, participants which must, within 21 days, experience first-hand the conditions of life and service in Switzerland during the Second World War.

The peace-loving Swiss try to resolve everything diplomatically. So the looming environmental problem associated with the huge cargo flow (more than one million trucks cross the country’s mountain passes every year) was resolved amicably: the longest and deepest railway tunnel in the world is being built under the St. Gotthard massif. The decision cost 10 billion Swiss francs. But the cargo flow can be increased to 40 million tons per year, the journey from Zurich to Milan will take only two hours by train, the ecology of the cantons will not suffer, and the birds will receive artificial islands for nesting, specially built for them on Lake Vierwaldstätt - from part of 25 million tons of rock removed during construction.

Along the shores of the lake they engage in agriculture, organize carnivals (Luzerner Fastnacht, cheese, television Rose d'Or), elite concerts, festivals (Lucerne Festival of classical music, jazz, blues), climatic resorts (Bürgenstock) and carefully preserve the sights of ancient cities (Lucerne, Weggis, Vitznau, Brunnen, etc.) - such as, for example, the Chaff Bridge in Lucerne, along which pilgrims passed on the way to Santiago de Compostela, rushing from the northern lands to Spain, to the relics of St. James.

FUN FACTS

■ The name “Moonlight” has been attached to Beethoven’s sonata since 1832: it was then that the music critic Ludwig Relstab compared this music to moonlight over Lake Firwaldstät.

■ According to legend, the Tiber, Rhone and Lake Geneva “refused” to accept the body of Pontius Pilate, who, having crucified Jesus, committed suicide. The soul of Pilate settled on the mountain that now bears his name, and frightened the inhabitants of the surrounding area, until one warlock “agreed” with it that it would come out only once a year. But most likely, the name of the mountain is based on the Latin pilleatus (“in a felt hat”): this could be the name for the cap of clouds that enveloped the peak. An amazing railway leads to the top of Pilate: the slope is so steep that the cogwheels “roll” along the cogwheel rail, “pulling” the train.

■ Victorinox Swiss army knives are produced in the canton of Schwyz.

■ In the Middle Ages, residents of Lucerne considered lions as pets.

ATTRACTIONS

■ Saint Gotthard Pass, Muota Valley and Suvorov Bridge; "Schiller Stone";
■ Lucerne: Old Town, Wasserturm Tower and Kapellbrücke Bridge (1365), Wagner Villa, Culture and Congress Center (architect Jean Nouvel, 1999), sculpture by B. Thorvaldsen “The Dying Lion”
(1821), section of the medieval wall of the Museggmauer (circa 1400), Knight's Palace. Transport Museum; a collection of works by P. Picasso in the Am-Rin-Haus (1618), Rothenburgerhaus - the oldest residential wooden building in Switzerland (c. 1500); Ice Fossil Park and Ice Age Museum;
■ G. Brunnen: Bundeskapelle (1632), convent and institute of the Sisters of Charity of the Holy Cross (founded in 1856), ancient bridge (1595).

Atlas. The whole world is in your hands No. 94