Nestled amongst the calming blue waters of three beautiful Swiss Lakes, Mount Rigi, Switzerland is a unique and extraordinary destination. It is also known as the Queen of Mountains, mainly due to its stunning panoramic views and majestic beauty.
Thanks to its central location, Mount Rigi is a breeze to reach from major cities like Zurich and Lucerne. This proximity is one of the many reasons that make it a popular day trip among visitors.
During the winter months, the beautiful mountain is adorned with snow-covered peaks. This makes it an ideal spot for winter activities as well, such as skiing, snowshoe hiking, and much more.
In this travel blog, we will cover all the things you need to know to plan a day trip to Mount Rigi including the best time to visit, the top things to do, and how to get there and make the most of the Lucerne region.
Where is Mt. Rigi
Mount Rigi is not as famous as the Matterhorn, but it is still a great place to visit in Switzerland. Why? Because it is in the middle of the country, so you can get there easily from any big city. For example, it is only 22 kilometers (14 miles) away from Lucerne. It is one of the best day trips in Switzerland for tourists who want to see some amazing views of three Swiss lakes, including Lake Lucerne.
If you go to the top of Mount Rigi, which is called Rigi Kulm and is 1779 meters high, you can see almost all of Switzerland and 19 different lakes on a clear day. That’s pretty impressive!
Mount Rigi is also a fun place to go in winter, when it is covered with snow. You can go sledding, snowshoeing, or skiing on the mountain. Or you can just hike on the many beautiful trails of Mount Rigi and enjoy the nature.
How to get to there
From Vitznau
One of the most picturesque ways to reach the summit of Mount Rigi is to board the rack railway from Vitznau after enjoying the boat ride. This trip takes about half an hour and runs frequently throughout the day. During the high season, you can count on the train to depart at least once every hour.
The Rigi Bahn is a historic cogwheel train that has been operating since 1871. It is the oldest mountain railway in Europe, which makes it a unique attraction in itself.
From Weggis
The cable car from Weggis to Rigi Kaltbad is a great way to reach the Rigi. Rigi Kaltbad is a charming resort on a plateau. From there, you change to the historic cogwheel to Rigi Kulm, the top of the mountain. The option is perfect for those who want to enjoy a cable car ride. For the best day trip experience, consider doing a round trip involving ascending from Weggis and descending to Vitznau (or the other way around) fully immerse yourself in the experience.
From Arth Goldau
If you want to get to the Rigi through Arth Goldau, you can use the cogwheel train to the summit. This 40-minute-long scenic trip in the vintage carriages of Rigi Bahn is surrounded by woodland, waterfalls, and meadows. Every now and then, you may also get a glimpse of Lake Zug or the peaks of the Swiss Alps on the way.
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Best Things to do on Mount Rigi
Ride the Historical Railway
Mount Rigi is home to one of the oldest cogwheel trains in Europe. This traditional steam train has been connecting travelers from all over the world to the summit of the stunning mountain – Rigi Kulm – since 1871.
So, if you are a fan of vintage experiences meshed in with the modern world, you should travel with the Swiss historical railway.
It is important to note that the old steam train only operates during specific times of the year. During other times, you will have access to the red Rigi Bahn, which provides a memorable journey of its own.
Scenic Views at Rigi Kulm
Mount Rigi, Switzerland is surrounded by three mesmerizing lakes: Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and Lake Lauerz. This results in visitors being witness to some of the most impressive views in the Lucerne region.
The combination of low-lands with that of the high peaks of the mountain offer a breathtaking contrast with panoramic views of the Alpine peaks and 13 lakes.
On clear days, you are able to get a glimpse of the French Alps and the Black Forest in Germany. In fact, when the skies are particularly clear, you can view every canton of Switzerland, bar Geneva. The 19 different lakes are also visible on these days.
The highest peak of Mont Rigi – Rigi Kulm – sits at almost 1,800 meters above sea level. The 360-degree views that you get from this peak are unbeatable, to say the least.
Visitors can also find a quaint 200-year-old hotel here. It’s called the Rigi Kulm hotel and it offers the perfect place to view sunsets and sunrises. Another option atop the Rigi Kulm is the Old Station House Airbnb.
If you want to walk between Rigi Kulm and Rigi Kaltbad, the Classic Trail will take you between the two through Rigi Staffel. This is an easy hike that lasts around one hour.
Upon your arrival, you can enjoy a hot cup of cocoa or a refreshing ice cream at one of Rigi Kaltbad’s restaurants.
Whichever side you choose to reach Rigi Kulm, the final part of the destination is covered on foot. The path is short yet steep and brings you to the very top of the mountain where you are able to take in the views all around you.
Hiking the Rigi Panorama Trail
The Mount Rigi Panoramaweg or Panorama Trail is an easy hiking option. Located near Lucerne and Zurich, it offers breathtaking views of the Swiss landscape.
It is a great choice for tourists and families who desire to experience the classic beauty of Switzerland without enduring a challenging hike.
To begin the journey, one must take the Rigi mountain train up to the summit. The Panoramaweg trail begins here and winds its way along the cliffs and around mountain peaks. Along the way, visitors find themselves surrounded with incredible views in every direction.
This hike ends at Rigi Scheidegg, where visitors can find a restaurant, large playground, and a cable car that takes them back down to the valley.
The Panorama trail is open throughout most of the year and is suitable for children. It takes roughly 3 hours to complete but if you are traveling without kids, the time may be shorter.
Sledging at Rigi in Winter
When you reach the top of Mount Rigi, Switzerland, you are able to rent sledges. Additionally, sledges can also be rented in Rigi Kaltbad from the sports shop. If you choose the latter, you must return the sled after your sledging adventure is over.
From Kulm, tourists sled down the sledge run to Staffel. Here, they have two options depending on what is open and available. There are two runs that conclude at Rigi Klösterli, where you will take the blue cogwheel train back up the Kulm to repeat the adventure.
To return to Rigi Kaltbad, you can walk or sled down the path alongside the railway. This is a short 30-minute walk with certain parts suitable for sledding. If you time it appropriately, you may witness the lovely red Rigi Bahn going up.
You can also opt for snowshoe hiking instead of sledging. If you are lucky, you may experience fresh snow after a night of snowfall. The visibility may not be clear on some days but the foggy ambiance is enjoyable in its own right, nevertheless.
Rigi Kaltbad
Rigi Kaltbad is a charming Swiss village with a small local population. It is located at an altitude of 1,433 meters.
Travelers can take the cable car from Weggis to reach Rigi Kaltbad. Once here, you can stay at the Hotel Rigi Kaltbad which is home to the renowned Rigi Wellness Center and Spa.
This spa features one of Switzerland’s most sun-drenched terraces. It is also known as the thermalbad Rigi or mineralbad and is a popular relaxation spot among visitors. A visit here is highly suggested whether you are making a day trip to Mount Rigi or staying overnight.
Another tourist attraction is the Regina Montium. This Michelin-starred restaurant provides visitors with the best of fine-dining right in the heart of Switzerland.
If you are more of a laid-back person, Chalet Schild is a local mountain eatery in Rigi Kaltbad that specializes in regional dishes. Additionally, you can also opt for the restaurant inside Hotel Rigi Kaltbad.
Best time to visit Mt. Rigi
The best time to visit Mount Rigi, Switzerland is basically all year round.
During winters, it is a popular destination to enjoy snow sports whereas in the summer, people go on a day trip to Mt. Rigi and hike the trails. When it comes to the views, there is no compromise throughout the year.
You can expect the temperatures to drop below zero during winters. Between March to November is when you can expect it to be a bit warmer. Summer highs are experienced in the months of June, July, and August, with temperatures reaching around 18 degrees Celsius.
We recommend taking a quick look into the webcam in Rigi. This will give you a live look into Mt. Rigi’s weather conditions and whether it is appropriate for you to visit.
How long should you spend at Mt. Rigi?
To fully appreciate Mount Rigi, we recommend that you spend at least half a day there. This will provide you with plenty of time to stop at one of the restaurants for a meal either before or after taking in the scenery.
For those wanting to hike in the Rigi region or engaging in its many fun activities, a full day is a more suitable choice.
If you have the time, an overnight stay is highly recommended. That will give you the opportunity to witness the unforgettable sunrise and sunset views that Mount Rigi has to offer.
Where to Stay at Rigi Mount
If you are looking to spend the night at Mount Rigi, there are a few options available to you.
Rigi Kulm Hotel
The Rigi Kulm Hotel is a three-start property and is located right at the summit of the Rigi Mount. It offers 70 traditionally styled rooms with magnificent mountain views. This is where you will be able to watch Mt. Rigi sunset.
Hotel Rigi Kaltbad
The second option is Hotel Rigi Kaltbad. This is also a three-star hotel and is perfect for those seeking a spa break. It’s located conveniently near the cable car and train stations.
Here, you can get sweeping views of Lake Lucerne and surrounding areas. Hotel facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, a bar, a sundeck, and a restaurant.
FAQ
Is Mt. Rigi worth visiting?
Mount Rigi in Switzerland is a must-visit destination, even if you only have half a day to spare. The elevation at this mountain provides multiple perspectives of Switzerland’s immense beauty and leaves you in awe.
Whether you’re interested in trying out the Rigi spa, hiking the trails, or indulging in a delicious Swiss meal, you will find it all here. For those looking to see as much of Switzerland in as little a time as possible, Mt. Rigi is the perfect place to visit.
Mt. Rigi or Mt. Pilatus?
Choosing between a day trip to Mt. Rigi or Mt. Pilatus from Lucerne depends on the kind of experience you are looking for.
Mount Pilatus usually tends to be busier. Depending on the time of the year, it may have more activities and attractions than Mount Rigi, such as the Christmas market. This may be more suitable for people visiting with children.
On the other hand, Mount Rigi is known for its natural beauty and tranquility. It can serve as the perfect getaway for those seeking peace and quiet. The Rigi railway and cable car rides are a central part of the experience.
How to get to Mt. Rigi from Lucerne?
If you are planning to travel to Mt. Rigi from Lucerne, you’ll first need to take a boat trip across the lake or a short train ride. This would then be followed by a funicular or cable car ride.
The scenic journey to the top is an integral part of the Mt. Rigi experience, regardless of which mode of transportation you choose.
How to get from Zurich to Mt. Rigi?
It takes approximately 40 minutes to get from Zurich to Mt. Rigi. If you travel from the railway and bus, it can take a little longer.
A more convenient option is to take a day tour which is also available from Lucerne.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Mount Rigi, Switzerland is an absolute must for anyone traveling to the country. With its enthralling natural beauty, unbeatable panoramic views, and central location, it is the perfect destination to create lasting memories.
