Mount Pilatus Railway
The Mount Pilatus Cogwheel Railway begins its journey in the
charming village of Alpnachstad, perched on the shores of Lake
Lucerne. This locale is highly accessible, and travelers can arrive
via a cruise on the lake, by car or bus, or by train, riding the
Zentralbahn from Lucerne. Shortly after beginning its steep ascent,
the train enters hand-carved mountain tunnels and navigates steep
passes where craggy rock walls surround both sides of the track.
Groves of evergreen trees dot the course, and the challenging
terrain of Mt. Pilatus is on full display. Travelers may spot cows
grazing in the alpine meadows or even catch a glimpse of the ibex
that roam in the high rock formations. Awe-inspiring views over
Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains, still cloaked in their
winter white, peak over the treeline as the train proceeds toward
Pilatus Kulm.
Large picture windows showcase all this beauty and more during the
half-hour trip to the top. The windows can be dropped for those
riders that want a better view for photographs or desire a breath
of fresh mountain air. All passengers are seated on plush
bench-style seats with windows on either side.
As the Mount Pilatus Cogwheel Railway arrives at the summit,
Pilatus Kulm, there is no shortage of ways for travelers to
experience the grandeur of this 6,791-foot mountain peak. An
expansive viewing platform introduces new arrivals to the
surrounding scenery. There are gift shops for souvenirs and two
restaurants that offer fantastic menus filled with seasonal
ingredients: Restaurant Pilatus-Kulm and Restaurant Bellevue. Those
who crave adventure can set out on a paragliding adventure from
Pilatus Kulm. Mt. Pilatus truly offers something for everyone.