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Easy Mountaintop Visit

My mom and I are visiting in August. She is 80. In good health, but not as swift as she used to be. If we want to attempt a mountain as a day trip from Lucerne, which one offers the most ease of navigation (ease of paths, easy access onto funicular, train, etc. graduated steepness, etc.)?

I realize I am asking which mountain is the least steep, which sounds silly. I do think there is a suitable answer, though. After watching several videos, I am guessing that Rigi beats Pilatus for suitability for an elderly person, but I'd like input. My mom desires to hear cowbells. Probably she'd like to see the cows attached to the bells, too. She grew up in Wisconsin, but of Swiss ancestry, and this will be the trip of a lifetime for her. My great grandfather brought his cheesemaking from Switzerland to Wisconsin, then Arkansas, and back to Wisconsin.

We have most likely narrowed down our lodging to the Hermitage on Lake Lucerne. I think my mom will enjoy the peaceful mountain and lake views. If she is too tired to do anything else, the resort setting on its own is something for the memory books.

Posted by
21749 posts

I think Rigi fills the bill. The train station is just steps from the boat dock at Vitznau. It is fairly gentle on top with good views on a clear day. Might be cows around, but I was there in January, so they'd all be in the barns then.

Posted by
6066 posts

For a shorter jaunt, there's Mt Stanserhorn, outside of Lucerne. It's 45 minutes from the Lucerne train station to the summit. And- that includes riding in an open air Cabrio cable car, riding above the cows and bells. It's great for a sunset. The summit has less area than Rigi or Pilatus , 360 view, and less walking involved. There's also a few food options. We actually did Rigi in the morning (half day adventure) and Stanserhorn in the evening. Have a beautiful family trip. Safe travels.