Mount Rigi
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• From Lucerne, a day trip to the summit of Mount Rigi is convenient, scenic and pleasant. Boats depart frequently from central Lucerne, reaching Vitznau in just one hour. There, Europe’s oldest cog wheel train line, operating since 1871, is ready and waiting for the boat traveler. With no time lost, the ascent begins:
  

  

  

  
  Climbing through the clouds, only 30 minutes later we arrive at the end of the line. The 6000 foot summit is crowned with a communication tower and a large resort hotel. In winter, skiing at Rigi Kulm is popular and has been since 1906.
  

  

  
  A hike to hotel-level provides a good view of the rail terminus below:
  

  

  
  However, to reach the summit more effort is required on either of two routes. This sign needs no translation to comprehend the difference:
  

  

  
  The 300 foot tower, bristling with antennas, is a magnet for climbers ....

  

  .... but only the 20 foot level can be reached without forcible entry:
  

  

  
  So, what can a day tripper do up here this time of year? Admire the view, of course, enjoy a drink on the sunny patio and have your photo taken:
  

  

  Well, when in Rome ....
  
  On our return, we chose to ride the train half-way down and a gondola from there. The view was striking:
  

  

  
  The gondola decends to the lakefront village of Weggis. Reaching the boat dock involves an easy walk through town:
  

  

  And, there it is! Our ship’s come in, affording us a comfortable ride back to Lucerne:
  

  

  
  Always organized, Patty makes notes even on-board. How else could we ever remember what all these photos are about?

  

  
  A last look back at Weggis and there is naught to do but watch the pretty scenery float past:
  

  

  

  

  After an hour of this “torture”, we deboard in front of the Lucerne rail station, our gateway to home.