Overview
Rising to 2,128m south of Lucerne, Mount Pilatus is steeped in dragon legends. The world's steepest cogwheel railway (48% gradient) climbs from Alpnachstad to the summit, while gondolas and cable cars ascend from Kriens. At the top, a 360-degree panorama takes in 73 Alpine peaks. The 'Golden Round Trip' — boat, cogwheel train, summit, gondola, bus — is the ultimate experience. Golden Round Trip about CHF 72 (50% off with Swiss Travel Pass). About 1 hour by boat from Lucerne station to Alpnachstad.
Opening Hours
Cogwheel railway: May-November (08:10-17:40); gondola: year-round (08:30-17:00).
Travel Tips
The Golden Round Trip is the way to go: boat, cogwheel train, summit, gondola, bus. Picking a clear day is essential — check the webcam beforehand.
Hotels near Mount Pilatus
Hotels and guesthouses in Lucerne, Pilatus, Lucerne
