Bürgenstock and Hammetschwand Lift

The Bürgenstock plateau lies above Obbürgen in Canton Nidwalden, about 10 km south of Luzern, and rises steeply from Lake Lucerne. The most scenic approach is the SGV boat from Luzern to Kehrsiten-Bürgenstock, which takes about 35 minutes and costs CHF 17-22 one way, running about hourly in season. From the landing stage, the Bürgenstock funicular climbs to the resort every 30 minutes for about CHF 8-10 one way. The main attractions are the Felsenweg, a cliff-edge walking path, and the Hammetschwand Lift, which at 153 m is described as Europe's highest outdoor elevator and reaches a lookout with views over the lake and the surrounding mountains. The walk from the resort to the lift takes about 40 minutes. A suggested day takes the morning boat to Kehrsiten, rides the funicular up, walks the Felsenweg to the lift, rides up to the lookout, has lunch at the resort, and returns by funicular and boat in the afternoon. The Bürgenstock Resort has a lakeside park and several restaurants, and lunch typically costs CHF 25-45. The lift return ticket costs about CHF 10-12 and runs seasonally, weather permitting, and it may close in wind or rain. The best season is April to October, when the paths are clear and the views are widest. Sturdy shoes are advised because parts of the Felsenweg are exposed and can be slippery when wet. Total costs for the boat and lift are about CHF 50-65.