Switzerland has always been on our bucket list. There are many beautiful parts to visit, but we wanted to minimize travel time within the country. The area around Lake Lucerne has everything we're looking for: abundant hiking, breathtaking views, small Swiss villages, historic towns, great restaurants, and efficient public transportation.
Our tentative plans are outlined below. Probably changing every few days or weeks.
The town of Brunnen looks like a good base. It is on the opposite side of Lake Lucerne from the city of Lucerne (Luzern). About a 25 minute drive, 50 minute train ride, or 1 1/2 hours ferry ride.
I'm still trying to determine when hiking season starts. I believe sometime between early May and the beginning of June most of the cable cars, funiculars, and lifts will be open. Seven to eight days should be enough time in the area to hike, explore, and chill.
Vacations are more relaxing when I don't have to do any driving. Buses, trains, and boats are frequent and reliable around the area, stopping within walking distance of trailheads, or cable car stations. Of course, rental cars are available should we decide to drive somewhere.
Sightseeing (this list will grow)
Lucerne (Luzern)
Einsiedeln Abbey
Lake Lucerne Boat Ride
Hiking
We're interested in storybook-looking hikes. Alpine meadows, traditional Swiss homes, and, of course, cows.
I'm in the process of identifying those storybook hikes that also meet most of the following criteria:
- Easy to moderate skill/effort level
- 1 to 4 hour duration
- Accessible (to and from) via public transportation
Also, it would be nice if the hikes had a restaurant and/or kiosk/honor-fridge along the way. Examples:
Hike List (this list will grow)
Stäubifall
Brunnen - Sisikon [4 hours]
Getting from Zurich Airport to Brunnen
Notes
The Ever Changing Budget
Hotel rooms: Estimate US$250 - US$300 per night
Example: Hotel Weisses Rössli Brunnen
Airfare: $1,000 to 1,500 / per person - round trip