by Emma Quinn NY (WRGB) — A man from Lake Luzerne was arrested by the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office after a warrant was issued for his arrest 50-year-old Joseph Nunez is accused of stealing merchandise from the Wilton Walmart on March 22 after having been previously banned from their stores and charged with 3rd-degree burglary (class D felony) and petit larceny (class A misdemeanor) Nunez was arraigned in Wilton Town Court and released pending further court proceedings The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office says the charges do not qualify for setting bail under NYS laws that went into effect in January 2020 Sponsored by Luzern Tourismus and Alpine Adventures Switzerland, without question, is one of the world’s most iconic winter destinations. And located within the heart of Switzerland is one of Europe’s most picturesque cities, Lucerne Each winter Lucerne turns into an enchanting winter wonderland snow-capped mountains where you’ll find incredible ski resorts and adventures aplenty It all combines to make Lucerne the perfect urban winter getaway Use our Lucerne travel guide to plan a trip this winter While November typically marks the beginning of the winter ski season, it also marks the beginning of the advent season, when Christmas markets The city’s holiday season kicks off in late-November with figure skating shows and the arrival of Christmas markets that dot the town is transformed into one of the city’s most traditional and magical Christmas markets for most of December featuring festive music and holiday-adorned wooden stalls serving up treats and selling gifts Other highlights of the holiday season include Ice Magic Lucerne where visitors can go ice skating at the Europaplatz and enjoy views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains and music performances that fill the streets of Lucerne Old Town Lucerne turns into one big festival for the city’s largest annual event Other highlights include one of Europe’s most extensive collections of transportation memorabilia A trip to Switzerland isn’t complete without a cheese tasting and there are plenty of opportunities around Lucerne including the waterfront Fondue House Du Pont which pairs wonderful alpine cheese with beautiful views of the Reuss River Just around the corner is Zunfthausrestaurant Pfistern one of Lucerne’s most historic and iconic restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Swiss food in the heart of Lucerne’s old town Lucerne is also home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants Skiers and riders can enjoy fresh tracks less than an hour away from Lucerne on the slopes of Mount Titlis makes for a long season from October to May is a ride on the first revolving cable car plus a visit to the glacier grotto and cliff walk Tons of mountain adventures are accessible right outside of Lucerne a three-and-a-half-minute cableway ride from Fräkmüntegg to the summit of Mount Pilatus is a can’t-miss experience with stunning views in every direction Mount Rigi is another nearby mountain that beckons outdoor enthusiasts Adventurous travelers can take the 4-mile (7 km) Rigi-Panorama hike from Rigi Kaltbad to Rigi Scheidegg through the snow for incredible views of the Alps and Schwyz basin Montage Deer Valley is a Luxury Year-Round Outdoor Destination Snow Before You Go: Where to Find the Best Snow this Week The Best Destinations in North America for Spring Skiing The Best Ski Resorts in the Rockies and Beyond for Spring Skiing The Bürgenstock Resort, situated above Lake Lucerne in the Swiss Alps, has partnered with LUX Tennis to launch a comprehensive pickleball programme at its Diamond Domes sporting facility which is already ranked among the world's top 100 tennis venues with participation increasing by nearly 40% between 2019 and 2021 In the United States alone, pickleball has attracted 4.8 million enthusiasts cementing its position as the world's fastest-growing sport heading into 2024 Bürgenstock's new programme offers various entry points for both novices and experienced players Guests can rent courts with equipment for up to four players at CHF 80 per hour (£71) while those seeking instruction can book private lessons with LUX Tennis professionals at CHF 160 per hour (£142) on weekdays and CHF 180 (£160) at weekends with an additional charge of CHF 40 (£36) for extra players The resort has also introduced weekly "Pickleball Discovery Sessions" every Friday afternoon the facility plans to organise tournaments featuring pickleball celebrities building on its track record of hosting tennis stars such as David Ferrer Played on a court roughly half the size of its tennis equivalent pickleball uses lightweight paddles and perforated plastic balls with underhand serves making it accessible to players of all ages and abilities The sport's growing popularity in Switzerland is attributed to its inclusive nature and health benefits with communities forming across the country guests can recover in the resort's extensive 10,000-square-metre Alpine Spa which features five pools and 15 treatment rooms the facility offers a bracing outdoor "Eco-Pool" and a cryotherapy Ice Lab The pickleball launch coincides with the spring reopening of the resort's Hammetschwand Lift offering visitors a dramatic mountain ascent alongside other seasonal activities including hiking Best in Travel is here! Discover 2025’s destinations The 30 best countries, cities and regions to visit in 2025 Plan your trip with Elsewhere, by Lonely Planet See where a Lonely Planet Membership takes you Subscribe to our weekly newsletters to get the latest travel news, expert advice, and insider recommendations Explore the world with our detailed, insightful guidebooks Stay ahead of the curve with our guidebooks Uncover exciting new ways to explore iconic destinations Every month, we release new books into the wild Search Search Close search menu Explore Best in Travel 2024 Africa Close menu Countries Antarctica Antarctica Close menu Regions Asia Asia Close menu Countries Australia & the Pacific Australia & the Pacific Close menu Countries The Caribbean The Caribbean Close menu Countries Central America Central America Close menu Countries Europe Europe Close menu Countries Middle East Middle East Close menu Countries North America North America Close menu Countries South America South America Close menu Countries boating or riding the funicular to Mt Pilatus here are the best day trips on the doorstep of this gorgeous Swiss city Encircled by mountains of myth and sitting astride the shores of its eponymous lake of bluest blue, Lucerne is every bit as gorgeous as it was back in the 19th century when Goethe Wagner and Queen Victoria eulogised its beauty trains and cable cars breezing across the lake and up to nearby Alpine heights From the birthplace of the nation to sky-scraping glaciers here are our picks for the best days out from Lucerne Switzerland heart in every possible sense of the word Lake Uri’s jewel-colored green-blue waters give way to forested cliffs and peaks that rise sheer and rugged Cruise these waters and you’ll glimpse Rütli Meadow, hallowed birthplace of the Swiss Confederation as the spot where the Oath of Eternal Allegiance was signed in 1291. Nearby is the Tellskapelle where the apple-shooting hero and Swiss rebel William Tell is said to have leaped to safety from the boat of his Hapsburg captor Myths abound, too, at the Schillerstein a near 30m-high natural obelisk jutting up above the lake Its inscription pays homage to Friedrich Schiller How to reach Lake Uri: Boat is the way to go to really see Lake Uri Take SGV’s regular ferry service from Brunnen to Flüelen (44 minutes) Trains link Lucerne to Brunnen (46 minutes) and Flüelen (one hour) Tucked away in the eastern corner of Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland region Meiringen has a phenomenally beautiful backyard with hiking and cycling trails leading to wild valleys Get an early train for time to see both of its big-hitting natural wonders. First up is the 250m-high Reichenbach Falls You can see how author Arthur Conan Doyle thought it the perfect backdrop for a dramatic finale: in The Final Problem The Aare Gorge is just as riveting with tunnels and galleries wending past milky-blue torrents and limestone overhangs How to reach Meiringen: Meiringen is a 50-minute drive south of Lucerne via the A8 There are hourly trains to Meiringen (1 hour 10 minutes) Mountains and valleys seem to ripple into infinity from the 2128m peak of Mt Pilatus where the restless ghost of Roman prefect Pontius Pilate is said to roam his corpse was thrown into a lake at the summit and he has haunted these parts ever since – hence the name Reached by the world’s steepest cog railway since 1889 the mountain is an easy and insanely scenic day trip from Lucerne Getting here would have been more of an effort back in the 19th century when Wagner waxed lyrical about Pilatus’ views and Queen Victoria trotted up here on horseback But the exhilarating views on the walking trail are little changed: reaching across the lake deep into the Swiss Alps and as far as Germany’s Black Forest on clear days How to reach Mt Pilatus: From May to October, you can reach Mt Pilatus on a "golden round-trip" day excursion Puckering up between lakes Lucerne and Zug the 1797m peak of Mt Rigi is well known for its blazing sunrises and sunsets Turner was so smitten with the outlook and the singular quality of the light that in 1842 he painted the mountain in watercolors at three different times of day (Blue Rigi Europe’s oldest mountain railway – celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2021 – hauls you to the summit stretching across both lakes to Mt Titlis and the glaciated peaks of the Jungfrau massif you can see 24 of Switzerland’s 26 cantons There’s terrific high-level hiking up here in summer on 120km of marked trails If you’d prefer a swim or massage with a sublime view, head over to the Mario Botta-designed Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad How to reach Mt Rigi: Frequent trains run to Vitznau (one hour) and Goldau (32 minutes) where you can connect with cogwheel railways to Rigi Kulm (32 minutes and 44 minutes respectively) Not only the surrounding peaks offer knife-edge perspectives. Victorinox hails from these parts and the Swiss Knife Valley Museum tells you all about it with a fascinating romp through the history of knives is the chance to build your own Swiss Army Knife (a process of just 15 minutes) How to reach Brunnen: Brunnen is a 40-minute drive south of Lucerne via the A4 or take one of the regular trains (45 minutes to one hour) Engelberg (literally "Angel Mountain") wings you straight to Alpine heaven with its ragged backdrop of glacier-streaked peaks punching well above the 3000m mark eager to make fresh tracks in off-piste powder these mountains offer mile upon joyous mile of high-altitude hikes The icing on the cake is 3238m, glacier-topped Mt Titlis home to the world’s first revolving cable car which soars above the deeply crevassed ice Get an early start to avoid the glacier is at its busiest How to reach Engelberg: Engelberg is a 40-minute drive south of Lucerne via the A2 There are hourly fast trains linking Lucerne to Engelberg (43 minutes) swinging up another 1100m in just 6½ minutes This is the world’s first cable car with a roofless upper deck and it can get mighty breezy up top there are plenty of big-view hiking trails and hang-gliding and paragliding when conditions allow The Stanserhorn Rangers give the inside scoop on everything from wildflowers to where to spot eagles and marmots How to reach Stanserhorn: Stanserhorn is a 25-minute drive south of Lucerne via the A2 Frequent trains make the same journey in 13 minutes a funicular rises to the summit from mid-April to early November hidden away at the end of a valley and framed by gentle wooded hills Pilgrims come from afar to this small town the Bishop of Constance tried to consecrate the original monastery in AD 964 God himself has consecrated this building." How to reach Einsiedeln: Einsiedeln is an hour’s drive east of Lucerne via the A14. There are twice hourly trains (1¼ hours). We specialize in cosmetic and implant dentistry using high technology and a mastery of digital smile design to create new smiles that are beautiful but also functional and healthy Infection control is of primary importance so proper alignment is key before we beautify We proudly offer our patients the benefit of best-of-breed dentistry in one location New York University (Full Mouth Rehabilitation Program) Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (General Practice Residency) The Pankey Institute (Dental Sleep Medicine) Dental Implant Learning Center (Implant Mini-Residency) 2023 qualification as Orlando’s first certified Digital Smile Design clinic Leveraging artificial intelligence to design flawless smiles and high-end dentistry to reconstruct mouths completely We have incorporated the highest technology available in the world within our in-house lab to design and develop prosthetics in a shorter The finest dental practitioners join forces with best-in-class lab technicians to meet nearly any need in as little as 24 hours When it comes to cosmetic and implant dentistry you should seek professionals who are not just great clinicians but are also highly skilled artisans and the best technology available across the industry as a whole We are proud of our clinical artistry and focused on providing our patients with immaculate We warranty all of our work and offer flexible pay plans to enable fairer access to fine dentistry for Greater Orlando communities you can still cruise along Downtown Lake Worth Beach and find free public parking — usually with a 4-hour time limit But rising demand for parking and a lack of available spaces could force visitors and residents to pay The long-time free parking perk along Lake and Lucerne Avenues could soon end as city commissioners consider a paid parking plan and a possible garage for areas with the high parking demand During a Dec. 3 commission meeting Lake Worth Beach Mayor Betty Resch said it could be a huge change for residents "We know this is going to be a jarring piece of news for residents," said Resch "because they’re not used to having to pay." The considerations are part of an update to a 2018 study that recommends boosting downtown street parking availability and generating millions in revenue READ MORE: $500,000 grant boosts Black history museum project, revitalization in West Palm Beach community an outside consultancy firm working with the city It suggests lower fees with longer limits in off-street areas and causing overflow into surrounding neighborhoods,” the report explained “We recommend reducing the current 4-hour time limits in the Lake and Lucerne corridor (from J to M Streets) to 2 or 3-hour time limits with fees to ensure appropriate turnover of spaces for the area with the highest parking demand.” Commissioner Sarah Malega wants to expand the plan beyond downtown — and add more ADA parking spaces electric vehicle charging stations and a resident decal parking system not just from Dixie Highway to Federal Highway the same thing with the resident parking," Malega said "When you have small houses that have 15 people living in them There’re on the roads and you can’t get down the street." The updated 2024 plan also includes discussion surrounding a 4-level parking garage on S K St that could provide a total of 268 parking spaces “almost doubling the City’s remaining off-street parking supply,” according to the report The City operates paid parking meters at the beach The experts recommend expanding the beach program to include the downtown area — $3.00/hour for on-street parking rates for the Lake/Lucerne corridor (172 spaces) and $2.50/hour for various side streets (308 Spaces) enforcement would take place 7 days/week from 9AM-9PM Lake Worth commissioners said they will seek public input before finalizing plans And the Swiss government is now offering a reward for the best ideas to get it out The Federal Office for Defence Procurement is offering a joint cash prize of 50,000 Swiss francs for the three best entries to a new idea competition aimed at devising a method to remove the munitions Most of the ammo is submerged between 150 and 220 meters deep in Lake Thun Lake Neuchâtel also has around 4,500 metric tons of munitions in its waters due to years of bombing practice by the Swiss Air Force The department is now turning to academics and industry workers as it looks at how to carry out "environmentally friendly and safe recovery of deep lake ammunition" — which carries a risk of explosion and could also lead to pollution in the lakes and entries can be submitted until February 6 with winners announced in April of that year The winning ideas will not be implemented immediately; rather they'll serve as a basis for further research Any salvage operation is expected to cost billions Health retreat on Switzerland's Lake Lucerne offers a midwinter reset "It’s the Chenot effect," a friend messages me on WhatsApp the week after I return to London from Switzerland that effect – the symptoms my friend diagnosed include better mental focus and a toned physique – originated at Chenot Palace Weggis with views of Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi Chenot Palace Weggis is the flagship property of the Chenot group Set within landscaped parklands and with direct access to the lake 5,000-square metre medi-spa is where a team of more than 100 medical wellness specialists carry out the Chenot Method First presented in 1974 at a hospital on the French Riviera the Method was developed by the late Henri Chenot A holistic programme with a focus on prevention and resetting the Chenot Method balances traditional Chinese medicine with Western medicine and diagnostics there is the Chenot Diet: three meals per day From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox A stay at Chenot Palace Weggis begins with a sort of stocktake consultations with specialists including general doctors which requires a minimum stay of seven nights daily treatments such as hydrotherapy (the Phyto-Mud Treatment with a clay body wrap supplemented with microalgae is a talking point amongst guests) and an Energetic Massage that works with the five elements of Chinese medicine treatments such as intravenous ozone therapy and group exercise classes can be added "Anyone can do treatments," says Chenot chief operating and scientific officer Dr George Gaitanos "What is unique to our method is the protocol Chenot Palace Weggis has recently become a hotbed of technical advancements in wellness and exercise. In addition to a 20-metre indoor pool, the site boasts a fitness centre with the latest Technogym apparatus and Nasa-approved equipment such as the AlterG a treadmill used for anti-gravity exercise training which reduces body weight for strengthening and conditioning training on treadmills or bikes at reduced oxygen levels simulates an elevation of 3,000 metres above sea level to improve performance and optimise metabolism Whole-body cryotherapy is carried out in a sequence of chambers which cool down to -110°C and promise to help with recovery and sleep; while whole-body photobiomodulation happens in a kind of sunbed emanating red and near-infrared light to reduce inflammation and energise cells "This is a fantastic playground," says Dr Gaitanos chenot.com A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com Get to know Lucerne with this guide to the city's best experiences Most visitors to Central Switzerland base themselves in Lucerne in order to explore the glorious landscape that surrounds it but don’t forget to make some time for the city itself Not only does it have a gorgeous setting on the shore of the Vierwaldstättersee (Lake Lucerne) a lively music scene and one of the best preserved medieval old towns in the country Make the most of your time in Lucerne by enjoying these top things to do Any tourism image of Lucerne is likely to feature this covered wooden footbridge, which straddles the Reuss River flowing out of the lake. Dating from the early 14th century, the Kapellbrücke is the symbol of the city but it was almost completely destroyed by fire in 1993 to the heartbreak of the city’s inhabitants and a meticulous reconstruction restored the bridge and its painted roof panels to their former glory within just eight months make this your first stop after arriving at the nearby train station Detour: Downriver is a mini version of the Kapellbrücke, the Spreuerbrücke Its wooden roof joists feature painted panels depicting the Dance of Death Lucerne’s gorgeous Altstadt (Old Town) is characterized by its beautifully decorated buildings whose colorful frescos depict elements of the city’s history and culture the legend of William Tell and historic battles Take a stroll to admire the traditional guild house Pfistern building the Hotel des Balances and the decorative buildings on Hirschenplatz Linger for longer in one of the many cafes dotted throughout the area Planning tip: The Altstadt has numerous water fountains so don’t buy bottled water – bring a refillable one and help yourself en route for a far-reaching view of the city and Pilatus The Sammlung Rosengart – or "Lucerne’s Picasso museum" as some locals call it – is the private art collection of Swiss art dealers Siegfried Rosengart and his daughter Angela and a whole floor is dedicated to his work with around 40 examples of his imaginative The basement displays numerous paintings and sketches by Swiss-born artist Paul Klee while upstairs features classic modernist work by Cézanne Don’t miss the photographs of Picasso and his second wife Jacqueline taken at the couple’s home near Cannes in the 1960s by the American war photographer David Douglas Duncan which give a glimpse into their life together Planning tip: If you’re considering visiting several of Lucerne’s museums, it may be better value to buy a Museum Card which gives access to nine museums over two consecutive days Look downriver and you’ll see a fairy-tale castle perched on a hill above the city although there was an inn up here half a century earlier It’s easily reached thanks to a funicular that rises up the hill from town and deposits you right next to the hotel Check out the view from the top or linger with a drink on the hotel’s terrace the funicular is just a five-minute walk from the southern end of the Spreuerbrücke and runs on demand from early morning to late night are worth looking out for throughout the year or you could buy a takeaway drink and head for the fountain and surrounding boardwalks outside It’s worth making the short walk from the Altstadt to the Löwendenkmal a large stone relief carving of a dying lion fashioned out of the rock in a former quarry in the north of the city It’s a poignant memorial to the Swiss Guards who died protecting King Louis XVI of France from revolutionaries in 1792 and was instigated by one of their number who happened not to be on duty that day Danish artist Bertel Thorvaldsen’s design is achingly sad reflective space is somewhat spoiled by selfie-touting tour groups so come early or late to see the lion in peace The place to be on a warm early evening is Inseli Park, a strip of grass on the lakeshore near the KKL cultural center. Two little cafe-bars at either end of the park – Buvette and Volière – serve cocktails wine and soft drinks plus some light bites (although not over winter) Pull up a chair or swing your legs over the lake wall and enjoy the buzz and the lovely views grab a picnic and drinks from Coop supermarket or Bachmann bakery (both in the nearby train station) and sit on the grass Detour: The museum is a short walk from the lakeside next to the Verkehrshaus ferry stop. Make time for a swim, or walk five minutes along the lake to the Sunset Bar which is a great place for a drink as the sun goes down (from spring until autumn) follow the stream of locals to Ufschötti on Alpenquai This park with a sandy beach on the lakeshore is a lovely place to while away an afternoon sunbathing There’s a cafe-bar for drinks and a pétanque pitch if you fancy a game or two It’s no surprise that Lucerne’s beautiful lakeside location has inspired numerous artists and musicians over the years. German composer Richard Wagner was so taken with the city that he rented a villa on the lakeshore at Tribschen for several years from 1866. Today it’s a museum exploring the composer’s time here his famous works and his romantic entanglements His chamber piece Siegfried Idyll was written for his second wife on the birth of their son Siegfried and first performed on the villa’s staircase take the ferry from Bahnhofquai to Tribschen The museum is a two-minute walk from the jetty Planning tip: Reserve in advance to join a public tour in English, held on the last Sunday of the month from April to August, or book your own private tour. Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker For more information, visit burgenstockresort.com Search More results... Lucerne's fresh air is waiting for you This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page Downtown Orlando is undergoing a transformation as the city targets streets and lakes that need a pedestrian-friendly makeover Mayor Buddy Dyer said during his annual State of the Downtown Address Dyer spoke at the Kia Center as he discussed his plans to change downtown Dyer called for investments in upgrading Lake Eola’s bathrooms and walking paths and then highlighted several less popular areas that needed to be reinvented “It’s long past time that we remake our streets public transportation and other assets to better serve those who live in our community today It’s time we build a modern transit network that gives residents and businesses more opportunities to succeed,” Dyer said “That’s exactly what we’re going to do as part of our DTO Action Plan But the results will help fuel a higher quality of life and create economic opportunity.” Dyer highlighted one downtown street — Magnolia Avenue — a one-way street that will be converted into a “two-way road with wide walkable sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly amenities.” this prime stretch of road from South Street to the Courthouse has become a pass-through area with no identity and no soul,” Dyer said “We’ll infuse the area with artistic elements and small The new Magnolia Avenue will be a destination where businesses want to be and where residents and visitors want to spend their time and money.” And Dyer said the city is also targeting Orange Avenue from Colonial Drive to South Street the corridor has basically become a backdrop for cars that race down the street during the day and a weekend nightlife destination These two conflicting identities have limited the potential for what could be so much more,” Dyer said calling it “a sleeping giant” compared to the popular Lake Eola “Its significance has been forgotten as it serves as a backdrop for cars zipping along Orange Avenue,” Dyer said “We’re going to change that in a big way and transform the lakefront into a leisure destination with jogging paths people-focused gateway and a destination park.” This platform and all of its content are owned by Extensive Enterprises Media Publisher: Peter Schorsch @PeterSchorschFL © Copyright by Extensive-Enterprises 2025. All rights reserved. STAFF LOGIN Dominik Stalder has taken up his position as the new Hotel Manager of the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne As a part of the luxury resort's pre-opening team Stalder played a key role in revitalizing the business during the ten-year renovation phase His professional expertise and commitment has significantly contributed to the subsequent success of the resort following the official opening he served as Project Leader for the High-Level Conference on Peace in Ukraine the largest diplomatic event in Switzerland's history 2024 at Bürgenstock Resort and brought together 1,000 international VIPs as well as 700 internal and 350 external staff and contributors The organization of this event represented a major logistical challenge which was successfully mastered under his leadership in collaboration with the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Stalder played a crucial role in the resort's grand opening in September 2018 with more than 1000 guests His achievements also include managing the 150th anniversary event in 2023 which brought together over 4000 guests on the mountain as well as organizing major conferences and corporate events with an international reach Stalder has had an impressive career with Bürgenstock Hotels AG starting as Assistant F&B Director (March 2017 to January 2022) He expanded his expertise as Director of Events & Entertainment (January 2022 to December 2023) where he successfully applied his skills in event planning he held the position of Executive Assistant Manager in charge of Food & Beverage Stalder has impressed not only with his professional expertise He finds solutions skillfully and efficiently and is always at the forefront to ensure that projects are carried out successfully and to the fullest satisfaction His responsibilities included the development and implementation of events in close collaboration with various departments such as F&B "It is an honor to be the Hotel Manager of the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne and to continue to develop this great destination," commented Dominik Stalder "Seeing the resort grow up from the very beginning and being part of this intense adventure has had a profound impact on me I look forward to creating unforgettable experiences for our guests managing the resort at the highest level and continuously taking it into the future." has in-depth knowledge of hospitality management which he acquired by successfully completing the "Dipl Hotelier(e)-Gastronom(in) HF" course at the SHL Swiss Hotel Management School in Lucerne he completed an apprenticeship as a chef at the GIBZ Gewerblich-industrielles Bildungszentrum Zug which underpins his in-depth understanding of the catering industry He also has outstanding project management He is fluent in German and English and has a basic knowledge of French The Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne is part of Bürgenstock Collection headquartered in Doha The resort comprises a total inventory of 360 rooms spread across three hotels: the Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa (5* Superior) offering two distinct accommodation choices - The Contemporary and The Heritage the Waldhotel Health & Wellbeing (5* Superior) and Taverne 1879 (3*) a holistic Waldhotel Spa and a wide range of leisure activities The Bürgenstock Collection portfolio includes the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne the Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa (99 rooms) the Royal Savoy Hotel & Spa Lausanne (196 rooms) and The Adria in South Kensington 2Energy🚀US scientists end 70-year fusion struggle, paving way for better reactors Aamir Khollam17 hours ago 7Space🚀Scientists aboard a plane with 26 cameras chase burning satellite and film its fiery fall Chris Younga day ago 2Energy🌟70-year-old nuclear fusion problem solved; can help tokamaks stop escaping electrons Ameya Palejaan hour ago 4Military🌟World’s first Amazon-style weapons marketplace debuts with drones, robots, ammo Kapil Kajalan hour ago 8Culture🌟Tech games: Elon Musk wins as Sam Altman's Open AI drops full-profit shift for now Sujita Sinha6 hours ago Eric Ezenwa Michal Stipek/iStock Lakes are sources of water surrounded by land each possessing its own distinctive qualities and ecological significance From the depths of Siberia’s Lake Baikal containing one-fifth of the world’s unfrozen freshwater reserves to the rich biodiversity thriving in Africa’s Lake Malawi these bodies of water are pivotal to the environment We delve into the seven deepest lakes in the world and the critical roles they play in their respective regions This ancient lake, estimated to be 25 million years old, is the deepest and contains more freshwater than any other lake—about 20 percent of the world’s unfrozen surface freshwater Its crystal-clear waters are home to many unique wildlife The lake and its surroundings boast a rich biodiversity and approximately 80 percent of these are endemic to the region Among the most notable inhabitants is the Nerpa the world’s only purely freshwater seal with a thriving population estimated at around 100,000 Tourists can observe these elusive creatures through guided tours although the Nerpas tend to shy away from human presence because of a history of being hunted This African gem stretches across four countries: Burundi the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) It’s a vital resource for local communities and a hotspot for unique aquatic life Cradled in the arms of East Africa, it is the second-deepest lake in the world, with profound depths reaching 1,470 meters It’s a lifeline for the diverse species that call it home and for the millions who rely on its waters for livelihood. Mango trees offer a cool respite to kayakers along the pristine white sand shores of Lake Tanganyika The lake’s vibrant blue waters are a habitat for unique forested mountains providing a dramatic backdrop often mistaken for a sea because of its vastness spanning the intersection between the European and Asian continents With depths plunging to 1,025 meters, it presents a unique biodiversity-rich ecosystem The Caspian Sea is roughly the size of Japan and covers an area of about 143,000 square miles (370,000 square kilometers), making it a vast expanse of water with depths ranging from 13 to 20 feet (4 to 6 meters) while the southern regions host the sea’s deepest point at 3,360 feet (1,024 meters) below the surface Buried under Antarctica’s ice, this subglacial lake has remained untouched by light for millions of years. Lake Vostok, concealed beneath Antarctica’s vast ice sheets lies 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) below the ice stretching over 160 miles in length and 30 miles in width is encapsulated in a realm of eternal darkness contrasting with its shallower northern and southwest regions The existence of this hidden aquatic expanse was first theorized in the 1990s by a Russian geographer and pilot who observed a notably smooth ice patch indicative of the lake below However, it was not until 1993, with satellite-based radar mapping that the scientific community could confirm Lake Vostok’s existence Straddling the remote wilderness of Patagonia between Chile and Argentina is a stunning testament to the power and beauty of nature. This glacial lake, reaching depths of approximately 2,742 feet is one of the deepest in the world and a hub of biodiversity and geological intrigue The lake is an important water source and habitat for various wildlife including several species of fish and birds unique to the Patagonian region O’Higgins/San Martín Lake is less impacted by human activity than other bodies of water with tourism focused on eco-friendly and sustainable practices Lake Malawi, also known as Lake Nyasa, is a freshwater marvel stretching across three countries: Malawi, Tanzania, and Mozambique. Covering an area of about 11,400 square miles (29,600 square kilometers), it ranks as the ninth-largest lake in the world and the third-largest in Africa With depths reaching over 700 meters, it is also one of the continent’s deepest lakes. It harbors more fish species than any other lake on Earth These cichlids are renowned for their evolutionary significance and vibrant colors making the lake a key site for biological study Lake Malawi plays a vital role in the local economy supporting fishing communities along its shores Despite its ecological and economic importance highlighting the need for sustainable management practices to preserve its natural heritage for future generations Issyk Kul, nestled in the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s Tien Shan Mountains, is known for its scenic beauty. Spanning an area that makes it the world’s second-largest saline lake, Issyk Kul’s depths reach up to 668 meters (2,192 feet), creating a habitat for diverse flora and fauna Issyk Kul remains unfrozen year-round due to its salinity and geothermal activity beneath its surface the lake serves as a vital ecological reserve and a burgeoning hub for tourism and recreation the lake supports local communities through fishing and tourism offering a glimpse into Kyrgyzstan’s traditional and contemporary ways of life 0COMMENTABOUT THE AUTHOREric Ezenwa Eric Ezenwa is a writer with a penchant for blending technical content with humor Eric's hobbies include reading and the occasional game of chess By clicking sign up, you confirm that you accept this site's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Premium Aerial view of Park Hotel Vitznau beside lake in mountains Whether you’re checking into Zurich’s castle-like Dolder Grand or staying at Alpine ski-in/ski-out resorts the polyglot country has four official linguistic regions—Italian and Romansh—plus a nationwide English fluency often spoken not just to tourists but also as a neutral language between residents of those linguistic regions Or perhaps it’s the nation’s humble Alpine farmer history and intentional lack of royal lineage that eschew snobbiness and elitism in favor of discretion and straightforwardness Or maybe the presence of the world’s best hospitality schools helps visitors feel pampered and understood Many of the guest rooms face both Gstaad and the mountains Situated on a hill a short walk from the too-pretty-to-be-real resort town of Gstaad, the Alpina Gstaad debuted in 2012 as the first luxury hotel to open there in a century 15 years to create the six-story hotel on a five-acre plot in adherence with the town’s strict building codes The lobby makes a grand first impression with its contemporary artwork and use of reclaimed wood sourced from Switzerland Beau-Rivage Palace sits next to Lake Geneva Lausanne’s iconic Beau-Rivage Palace is a master class in Belle Époque–era Swiss hospitality It opened in 1861 and has run regal and strong ever since with a guest roster of icons from Coco Chanel and Princess Grace to Grace Jones and Keanu Reeves The 168-room hotel’s enviable location overlooks Lake Geneva and the city’s leafy Olympic Park—a reminder that Lausanne is home to the International Olympic Committee But its modern amenities are even more impressive than its Alpine views and Corinthian-columned A sprawling Guerlain spa in the resort’s 10-acre park includes saunas Sit on the wrought-iron balconies with signature canary-yellow awnings enjoy a glass of chasselas from the neighboring UNESCO-listed Lavaux wine terraces A Contemporary Lake View Premium Suite at Bürgenstock Resort in Switzerland After a nine-year, $600 million face lift, the iconic Bürgenstock Resort endures as one of Switzerland’s most top hotels Set on 148 acres of Alpine ridgeline peering over the sapphire-depths of Lake Lucerne (locally known as Vierwaldtattersee) and a sprawling 107,000-square-foot spa (Europe’s largest) featuring hammams including an outdoor infinity thermal pool overlooking the lake and neighboring central Switzerland’s snow-capped Alps Not all Swiss luxury hotels are castles or palaces ski-in/ski-out property—an elevator ride from the base of Zermatt’s Sunnegga funicular—is a cluster of six chalets abutting the larch woods and overlooking the 13th-century car-free village and ski resort of Zermatt with their gray palette and rough-hewn wooden furnishings offer some of the town’s best Matterhorn views The 107-degree thermal bath outside the spa is a great place to catch the alpenglühen on the Matterhorn so the property focuses on experiences—e-bike tours Meals are a standout too: They’re a mix of traditional Swiss cuisine with Middle Eastern influences and Italian flair A suite at the Dolder Grand in Switzerland The landmark 175-room Dolder Grand sits beside Lake Zurich and the Glarus Alps and has hosted everyone from Nelson Mandela and Albert Einstein to Leonardo di Caprio and Oprah Winfrey It was originally a kurhaus (health resort) when it opened in 1899 when architect Norman Foster and Partners added two contemporary wings and completely revamped the interiors Rooms in the historic main building skew traditional with beige sofas and hand-painted wallpaper while those in the new wing are spacious and ultra-mod swathed in marble and sand-colored Jura limestone Nor is its Michelin two-starred the Restaurant where roebuck meets buckwheat and truffle and desserts like fragrant forest strawberries with coconut and limoncello inspire and a center for medical treatments and procedures A guest room at Four Seasons Hotel Des Bergues Geneva Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Des Bergues Geneva How often can you stay in a hotel that hosted the inaugural 1920 meeting of the United Nations, then called the League of Nations? The revered Four Seasons Hotel Des Bergues Geneva dates back to 1834 and gilded neoclassical facade; it became a Four Seasons property in 2005 The hotel sits in the heart of the city where Lake Geneva becomes the River Rhone Its 115 guest rooms include 44 suites—all designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon—some with views of the French alps a leafy island named after Swiss philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau 30,000-square-foot Mont Blanc spa features a rooftop infinity pool and hammams adorned in white Marmara marble and aged oak while results-backed treatments include micropuncture mesotherapy head to one of the hotel’s three restaurants while Michelin-starred Il Lago cooks up Italian specialties like spaghetti alla chitarra and cacio and pepe potatoes The terrace of the penthouse suite at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz The food-forward Grand Resort Bad Ragaz spa resort located an hour from Zurich in the pinot noir–producing Rhine Valley of Canton Graubünden reopened in July 2019 with champagne-hued rooms featuring Italian granite The spa has clam shells filled with hot lava minerals Right next door, Grand Resort Bad Ragaz gazes up at the toothy Glarus Alps and offers quicker access to Tamina Therme naturally thermal 97.7-degree water sourced from Tamina Gorge in nearby Pfäfers If two separate spas and hotels weren’t enough the resort also has three Michelin-starred restaurants with a total of six Michelin stars where chef Sven Wassmer is known for his fresh interpretation of seasonal Swiss cuisine whose headquarters and museum are located next door Danish-based Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) designed both the hotel and the headquarters; it was commissioned to meld modern luxury with sustainability at the hotel the hotel’s meticulous details stand out: Muted colors call attention to oyster-shaped overhead lights and sculptural tree roots hang from the ceiling The hotel’s materials are completely biodegradable and designed to eventually decompose; they include wood from the surrounding firs of the Risoud forest local menu features breaded Tomme Vaudoise cheese and apricot clafoutis with rosemary sorbet A suite at the Mandarin Oriental Palace Luzern Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Palace Luzern Lucerne’s Belle Époque gem reopened as a 136-room Mandarin Oriental in September 2022 and sits parked on a prime stretch of Lake Lucerne’s car-free promenade on the edge of the old town Local architect Iwan Bühler’s 48 refurbished suites are now Lucerne’s largest Props to local details like rubber ducky swans Views of the surrounding Alps like Pilatus as are the vistas of Jean Nouvel’s nearby KKL Concert Hall including newly Michelin-starred modern French restaurant Colonnade and afternoon tea on the Belle Époque veranda conjures up duck liver ice cream with beetroot and beef tartar and an apple with sorrel and miso caramel dessert You could dip into the pool that stretches from the sprawling interior spa with its ice grotto and footbaths onto the resort’s grassy lakefront lawn and jump into the turquoise lake’s swimming area under a canopy of evergreens Pritzker laureate Peter Zumthor’s temple to water, Therme Vals, is reason enough to visit the ancient Alpine village of Vals, set high in Graubunden’s jagged, quartzite-studded Alps. But aesthetes and architects make pilgrimages to the 7132 Hotel featuring furniture from Fritz Hensen and Eero Saarinen and 73 guest rooms designed by fellow Pritzker laureates Zumthor added Renaissance-inspired stucco lustro plaster techniques Tadao Ando designed Japanese teahouse-inspired rooms and Kengo Kuma built timber-clad rooftop suites while Thom Mayne’s dark wood and quartz chambers feel like sensory deprivation suites plate up locally foraged mushrooms and Alpine grown fruit and vegetables from neighboring regions like Piedmont and acoustic watery chambers built from sparkling gray blocks of locally quarried Valesite quartz Guests have daily access to Zumthor’s iconic baths including exclusive night bathing between 11 p.m AFAR participates in affiliate marketing programs which means we may earn a commission if you purchase an item featured on our site.© 2025 AFAR LLC its streets blessed with historic architecture and packed with diverting delights Lucerne offers visitors a distilled taste of Switzerland at its best To discover more about Lucerne, visit myswitzerland.com Get your weekly dose of armchair travelling Shubhangi Dua including Lake Lucerne depicted in the image Richard Heath/iStock The Swiss military seemed to have discarded munitions in several lakes across Switzerland – including Lake Thun and Lake Lucene – between 1918 and 1964 The river bodies are situated in the Swiss Alps known for their serene natural beauty and environmental sensitivity. While the Swiss authorities were aware of the submerged munitions in the rivers of the country the officials in Switzerland have introduced a competition to motivate people to come up with solutions to remove these old munitions from the deep waters of the country’s serene lakes The top three submissions suggesting the safest and environmentally friendly ways to retrieve old bombs will be awarded a shared prize pot worth 50,000 Swiss francs ($57,800) Earlier this month on August 7, The Federal Office for Defense Procurement (Armasuisse) announced plans to seek new methods for the environmentally friendly and safe recovery of ammunition from Swiss waters through an idea competition The officials noted that while the submitted ideas may not be implemented immediately they could serve as a foundation for further research or studies The ammunition submerged at the end of the First World War until the initial decades of the Cold War comprised problematic or outdated ammunition in perfect condition or even rejected production batches. Most of this ammunition lies at depths of 150 to 220 meters in Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and Lake Lucerne “With the launching of an idea competition Armasuisse wants to increasingly involve academia and industry in the considerations on how environmentally friendly and safe recovery of deep lake ammunition could be carried out should this ever become an issue,” the statement noted the release of pollutants from submerged ammunition were to be established during ongoing lake water monitoring.” At the time dumping ammunition seemed practical considering Switzerland like many other countries after the World Wars had massive stockpiles of surplus munitions that needed to be discarded Submerging them in deep lakes was seen as a viable solution deep waters would contain any potential hazards and prevent the munitions from causing harm dumping this ammunition is concerning today due to the environmental impact and safety risks. The ammunition could be emitting toxic chemicals or heavy metals resulting in pollutants increase in the lake water. It poses a threat to the ecosystem of the Swiss lakes Another major risk is accidental explosions especially if disturbed by natural events or human activity Some of these munitions weigh up to 50 kilograms (110 pounds) Recovering the old ammunition is tricky due to poor visibility and the depth of the lakes in addition to these bombs made of non-magnetic materials making them difficult to locate and retrieve The official statement spotlighting the 2005 evaluation of possible retrieval solutions observed “ammunition recovery available at the time would lead to massive sludge turbulence and high risks for the sensitive ecosystem of the lake.” The competition will remain open until February 6 and the winners are expected to be announced in April 0COMMENTABOUT THE AUTHORShubhangi Dua As a quirky and imaginative multi-media journalist with a Masters in Magazine Journalism I'm always cooking up fresh ideas and finding innovative ways to tell stories I've dabbled in various realms of media from wielding a pen as a writer to capturing moments as a photographer With my creative spirit and eye for detail I've worked across the dynamic landscape of multimedia journalism and written about sports I'm on a mission to create a media landscape that's as diverse as a spotify playlist my journey has been filled with adventures that inspire my paintings 2024Zhangshuang/GettySave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links Whether you’re searching for a tropical beach vibe or balmy water filled with golden non-stinging jellyfish there’s a lake to suit every imaginable personality We’ve even included recommendations for waterside stays for you to soak in the soothing atmosphere for more than one afternoon From a lake in Switzerland’s Bernese Alps to a Kenyan pool decorated with a flamboyance of flamingos these are the most exquisite pools of water worldwide This gallery has been updated since its original publish date a remote wilderness retreat with just 18 rooms TanzaniaThis salt lake sure is beautiful to look at but its hellish 120-degree temperatures and dangerously low pH levels mean you can only admire it from afar There is one major upside: The surplus of scarlet-hued algae attracts millions of flamingos making the area one of the species’ major breeding grounds and you’ll need to endure a challenging ten-minute stepped ascent Aside from the millions of pink lotus flowers skimming the lake’s surface the protected wetlands contain some unique wildlife Its beauty is ideal for a stroll around the almost two-mile track circling the peaceful azure lake—keep an eye out for endemic wet-tropics birds or dinky musky rat-kangaroos Although rising water levels over the past few years have led to a drop in salinity the protected area is still a sight to behold Another perk is that its over a thousand miles of beaches and shorelines shelter one of the world's largest freshwater lakes from crowds and overtourism a luxurious train journey from Cusco to Arequipa The journey includes a sunrise visit to Lake Titicaca With a white limestone bottom and clear water the lake is perfect for snorkeling and diving—and snapping a few dozen photographs Its contents are supplied entirely by glacial runoff and precipitation hence the water’s clarity and intense blue hue the village of Attabad in northern Pakistan was buried by a landslide The event was a major natural disaster that stopped the flow of the neighboring Hunza River causing the site of the former village to rapidly fill with water and displacing thousands of people in the region the resulting turquoise lake—Attabad Lake—has become a destination in and of itself locals have been able to build hotels and campsites around the lake in an effort to rebuild their lives and livelihoods looks like it’s perched hundreds of feet above the ocean and tilts outwards—but this is Mother Nature’s version of an optical illusion the lake sits in a deep depression about 90 feet above sea level The steep cliff in front of the water (and high camera angles) gives the body of water its seemingly impossible “floating” appearance further proving that the Faroe Islands are unlike anywhere else on earth the organization recognizes the landscape for “having inspired famous poets and artists since the 9th century.” The freshwater lake covers about 2.5 square miles set in an exquisitely refurbished 18th-century estate with epic gardens and old-school cocktails a 19th-century stone bridge that creates a perfect circle when reflected in the waters below It’s often referred to as “Devil’s Bridge,” since the dramatic structure seems so impossible that it must have been built by an otherworldly force which has won our Readers' Choice Awards for seven years in a row a cozy hotel with stone fireplaces and lake-facing balconies The lake is a hot spot for kayaking and paddle boating but we’d just as likely throw down a towel on its white sandy shores and spend a few hours sunbathing especially when you throw in a glittering lake You may have already seen pictures of Lago di Braies while scrolling through Instagram—the lake is extremely famous among photographers thanks to its clarity and surrounding mountains but seeing it in person is far more incredible Get there first thing in the morning and rent a wooden rowboat to admire the body of water from every angle Surrounded by jagged mountains and lush vegetation (and oftentimes a few llamas and alpacas any views of these frosty blue waters are guaranteed to impress you they usually rub their skin with oil to protect it from damage then admire the bubble gum-pink lake from the white sandy shores Not only does the town have a cobbled Old Town and delicious local restaurants one of the oldest and deepest lakes on the continent It’s a perfect spot to swim and sunbathe during the summer months or take a boat ride and check out the surrounding biodiversity and historic architecture on cooler days as the town’s basilica served as the filming location for Maria’s wedding in the 1965 film Film buffs should certainly visit the church but be sure to save time to admire the lake’s reflective waters from the end of one of the seagull-lined piers when pink cherry blossoms are in full bloom Bike trails and walking paths encircle the almost five-mile lake which is embellished with reeds and azaleas golden metal-girded private hot tub and dine at their Michelin-recognized restaurant Cocooned in tapestries of greenery and mountainscapes Lake Vaihiria’s clear waters make for an enjoyable swim Butlers will carry your snorkeling gear through the 15-minute jungle hike and greet you with iced hand towels after you emerge from the water Enjoy mountain views while swimming laps at the lakeside pool up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse We understand that time is the greatest luxury which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world a brilliant blue lake and an old town that is a specimen of preserved medieval perfection it fulfils its side of the city-break bargain by having a world-class art museum restaurants and bars that are a terrific amalgam of old and new and an unsung musical history that soars among the surrounding symphony of peaks."},"children":[]}]},{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Recently added flights from Manchester to Zurich and an improved schedule from London now make getting there a whole lot easier and unlike some other absurdly pretty Alpine eyries (we’re looking at you Zermatt St Moritz) it’s refreshingly unstuffy and tourist-free — and"},"children":[]},{"name":"paywall","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":" not many places in Switzerland can claim that "},"children":[]}]}]},{"name":"paywall","children":[{"name":"image","attributes":{"id":"b84790ad-5223-4bea-8daf-48ab57523ebd","display":"fullwidth","caption":"Parts of the Kapellbrücke date from the 17th century","title":"Swans on a lake in Lucerne the old defensive walls of the city","title":"View of Lucerne which pulls off the neat trick of being a symbol for the city floral display and pedestrian crossing all in one Its interior paintings hark from the 17th century some 300 years after the wooden bridge was built and it’s a handsome thing to wander through and gawp at from which hang 278 boxes of geraniums in a rainbow of colours (free)."}},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"• Hotel pools are so overrated an ode to bathing culture and a living room to the city every summer it’s little more than a double-decked wooden platform of curtained changing rooms and a bar on Lake Lucerne where you can sip a spritz and top up your tan Swim from one of the two freshwater pools into the great big blue then for the full panorama climb the steps to watch the drama of the lake unfold purely for soaking in those views — BYO towel (£7; seebadluzern.ch)."}},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"• The last crumbs of the city’s defensive walls run north above the old town and still catch visitors dreaming Nine of the 30 towers that once cluttered the skyline on the Musegg Wall remain Everyone knows you can set your watch by the Swiss but this timepiece runs one minute fast (free until 7pm)."}},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"• With its summit at 2,129m (6,983 ft) Mount Pilatus is accessible by nerve-jingling cable car but the locals’ preferred excursion is up Mount Rigi (1,797m) — first by ferry across the lake then on the cogwheel train from Vitznau it came into service more than 150 years ago and at the peak rewards its passengers with guidebook-cover scenery Yomp back down through the meadows with thoughts of goat wrangling and Heidi the oldest paddle steamer on Lake Lucerne — Mark Twain who visited at the turn of the 20th century was a fan of the lake (£16; lakelucerne.ch)."}},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"• Classical music fan Beethoven’s dreamy Moonlight Sonata is named in tribute to the movement of celestial light that shimmers on the surface of Lake Lucerne while the Ride of the Valkyries composer Richard Wagner lived for six years on its shores in Tribschen Pan backwards from his glorious lake house turned museum and the unchanged view is so pulse-racing that it’s still worth a full-throated battle cry (£11; richard-wagner-museum.ch)."}},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"• Lucerne’s boon for culture vultures is KKL a Blade Runner-esque steel hangar next to the train station that comprises a contemporary art museum Naturally the priority is Swiss portraiture and landscape art but there’s plenty of room too for Turner prizewinners and works that ping-pong between the avant-garde and absurd The Swiss certainly are — which goes some way to explaining the popularity of this riverside restaurant and why its kitchen dips in and out of all sorts of flavours Pair a bottle of local wine with nectarine gazpacho and this bragworthy waterfront bar would be welcome in any city You’re there for cocktails paired with pizza or dim sum and if you don’t fancy the half-hour walk from the Promenade there’s a solution Skiffs and speedboats can be hired from several salty sailor types then docked at the pontoon out front (drinks from £6; sunsetbar.ch)."}}]},{"name":"heading3","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"CAAA by Pietro Catalano"}}]},{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"At this tasting-menu-led “transalpine” restaurant diners eat beneath an extraordinary recycled ceiling of wood glass and plastic that conjures to life the surrounding peaks and valleys The sleight of hand is that it has been made using 3D printing technology underlining Pietro Catalano’s hard-nosed kitchen philosophy; here is a place obsessed with sustainability and creativity Food-wise you’ll be eating with the seasons (it could be veal filet mignon complete the gastro family dynasty (tasting menu from £128; pietrocatalano.ch) salads and sourdough croque monsieurs and croque madames If you’re in a rush after the morning adventure grab a stretchy cheese sarnie or quiche to go (dishes from £13; lepiaf-luzern.ch)."}}]},{"name":"heading3","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"Seebistro Luz"}}]},{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"The best of the city’s drinking terraces is this café/bar next to the Bahnhofquai boat piers but from the overwater tables you get a sideshow of locals messing about on the water and a carousel of ferries as they slide in and out of view (drinks from £5; luzseebistro.ch)."}}]},{"name":"image","attributes":{"id":"76b0c76a-098c-4319-a7a6-5b506f1ed24e","display":"fullwidth","caption":"The Luzerner chügelipastete giving visitors a taste of what it was like to have dined in the region centuries ago when restaurant parlours were all neogothic with dark wood panelling and crown glass windows And that is still the case at this longtime favourite inside the Hotel Wilden Mann the city’s most prized dish — a top-hatted puff pastry jammed with veal raisins and cream (mains from £33; wilden-mann.ch) your entire stay is managed through your phone","title":"Hotel room with bed with design-loaded rooms and your entire stay managed digitally including access to your room via your phone It’s reached by funicular and has a history of hosting heavyweights whose painting from the hotel terrace hangs in Tate Britain grande dame hotels were popping up on palm-lined promenades all over Europe This one arrived in 1906 and immediately grabbed everyone by the lapels because — get this — it had loos in every room Today the sense is still that this is a well-polished pad of ceremony and ritual where you could sit for hours idling over cocktails Lucerne is about 40 minutes’ drive from Zurich; trains from the central station take about an hour "}}]},{"name":"heading3","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"Visit sustainably"}}]},{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"Investing in a three-day Swiss Travel Pass is the smart move especially if you’re planning a trip to Mount Rigi Share your memories in the comments"}}]}]},{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"link","children":[{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":"Become a subscriber"}}]}],"attributes":{"href":"https://www.thetimes.com/subscribe/"}},{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","children":[],"attributes":{"value":" and along with unlimited digital access to The Times and The Sunday Times you can enjoy a collection of travel offers and competitions curated by our trusted travel partners is perfect for a weekend getaway — with museums stylish hotels and mountain views","slug":"lucerne-what-to-see-and-do-city-break","categoryPath":"/travel/destinations/europe-travel/switzerland/lucerne-what-to-see-and-do-city-break-vqmq8wbxl","__typename":"Article"},"Image:1e0de668-3999-4ff1-936c-8b8081dcda96":{"caption":"Lucerne makes for a refreshing Swiss city break","credits":"Getty images","title":"Panoramic view of Lucerne walkable and cocktail-fuelled Braga in the northern Minho region is hot on your heels their peals signalling"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":160})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Portugal’s oldest city will chime for history fans — literally — as a chorus of baroque church bells fills the air daily their peals signalling the city’s"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":175})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Portugal’s oldest city will chime for history fans — literally — as a chorus of baroque church bells fills the air daily their peals signalling the city’s enduring role as"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":225})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Portugal’s oldest city will chime for history fans — literally — as a chorus of baroque church bells fills the air daily their peals signalling the city’s enduring role as the country’s northern religious centre two brothers from Wales have opened their second alpine hotel — the Brecon an all-inclusive (and wonderfully homely) stay","slug":"brecon-hotel-adelboden","categoryPath":"/travel/inspiration/ski-holiday/brecon-hotel-adelboden-60wfvb2bs","__typename":"Article","summary({\"maxCharCount\":105})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"The snow was falling in heavy clumps the ski lifts had closed for the day and the après-ski was muted"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":125})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"The snow was falling in heavy clumps the ski lifts had closed for the day and the après-ski was muted At the entrance to"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":145})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"The snow was falling in heavy clumps At the entrance to the church I saw him"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":160})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"The snow was falling in heavy clumps but he saw me"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":175})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"The snow was falling in heavy clumps “If a"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":225})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"The snow was falling in heavy clumps and afternoon swims","slug":"ive-found-the-crowd-pleasing-way-to-travel-with-grown-up-children","categoryPath":"/travel/inspiration/cruises/ive-found-the-crowd-pleasing-way-to-travel-with-grown-up-children-0q5wcb8wc","__typename":"Article","summary({\"maxCharCount\":105})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"On the foredeck of our gulet the canopy above ripples and gentle sea spray"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":125})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"On the foredeck of our gulet the canopy above ripples and gentle sea spray cools the soles of my"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":145})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"On the foredeck of our gulet the canopy above ripples and gentle sea spray cools the soles of my feet I pause from"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":160})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"On the foredeck of our gulet I pause from reading to sip"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":175})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"On the foredeck of our gulet I pause from reading to sip an Aperol spritz"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":225})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"On the foredeck of our gulet stylish hotels and mountain viewsLucerne makes for a refreshing Swiss city breakGETTY IMAGESMike MacEacheranWednesday February 19 2025 The Sunday TimesIf any city is a microcosm of all that’s memorable about Switzerland and an unsung musical history that soars among the surrounding symphony of peaks Recently added flights from Manchester to Zurich and an improved schedule from London now make getting there a whole lot easier St Moritz) it’s refreshingly unstuffy and tourist-free — and not many places in Switzerland can claim that Parts of the Kapellbrücke date from the 17th centuryALAMY48 hours in Lucerne — at a glanceDay One• Morning: Kapellbrücke• Eat at: Mill’Feuille• Afternoon: Seebad Luzern• Drink at: Sunset Bar• Evening: Musegg Wall• Dinner: CAAA by Pietro Catalano • Morning: Mount Rigi• Lunch: Le Piaf• Afternoon: Richard Wagner Museum• Drink at: Seebistro Luz• Evening: KKL• Dinner: Burgerstube the old defensive walls of the cityALAMYWhat to do• The most wonderful feature of the old town is Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) from which hang 278 boxes of geraniums in a rainbow of colours (free).• Hotel pools are so overrated purely for soaking in those views — BYO towel (£7; seebadluzern.ch).• The last crumbs of the city’s defensive walls run north above the old town and still catch visitors dreaming until 7pm).• With its summit at 2,129m (6,983 ft) was a fan of the lake (£16; lakelucerne.ch).• Classical music fan Pan backwards from his glorious lake house turned museum and the unchanged view is so pulse-racing that it’s still worth a full-throated battle cry (£11; richard-wagner-museum.ch).• Lucerne’s boon for culture vultures is KKL If art isn’t your bag then check ahead for a revolving door of concerts and festivals (£13; kunstmuseumluzern.ch) Mount Rigi is a favourite excursion among localsGETTY IMAGESWhere to eat and drinkMill’FeuilleTired of jokes about cheese and chocolate veal tartare or watermelon chicken and life on the banks of the Reuss River will seem pretty sweet (dishes from £9; millfeuille.ch) • The fairytale Swiss city that you should visit at least once You’ll find plenty of choice at the popular Mill’FeuilleSARA FURRERSunset BarLucerne has learnt to wring every bit of excitement out of its setting Skiffs and speedboats can be hired from several salty sailor types then docked at the pontoon out front (drinks from £6; sunsetbar.ch) At this tasting-menu-led “transalpine” restaurant • 10 of the most beautiful places in Switzerland This street-level deli takeaway feeds anyone visiting the monstrous KKL Luzern cultural centre grab a stretchy cheese sarnie or quiche to go (dishes from £13; lepiaf-luzern.ch) The best of the city’s drinking terraces is this café/bar next to the Bahnhofquai boat piers but from the overwater tables you get a sideshow of locals messing about on the water and a carousel of ferries as they slide in and out of view (drinks from £5; luzseebistro.ch) a meat-packed pastry that is the city’s most prized dishBurgerstubeThere’s a healthy tradition across the Alps for time travel This article contains affiliate links that can earn us revenue your entire stay is managed through your phoneJAN SCHUENKECentral bargain stayThis fully automated hotel in the heartbeat of the old town has been devised for the TikTok generation a café serving bao buns and breakfast bowls (room only doubles from £85; the-lubo.ch) Fairytale rooms with city viewsLike a mini Neuschwanstein Castle popping its parapets above the city for cocktails and jazz sessions (B&B doubles from £325; chateau-guetsch.ch) • 10 of the best places to visit in Switzerland Mandarin Oriental Palace is a well-polished padGEORGE APOSTOLIDIS PHOTOGRAPHYHistorical grandeur and fine diningBy the time that the belle époque era was reaching its peak open Wednesdays to Saturdays from March 5 to July 5 and from September 3 to January 7 (B&B doubles from £450; mandarinoriental.com) Fly to Zurich with easyJet from London and Manchester (easyjet.com) Become a subscriber and Sign up for the travel newsletter and follow us on Instagram and X Tennis lovers will find their dream getaway in the picturesque Swiss mountains at Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne Steeped in a fascinating history dating back to 1873 this iconic resort heralded a new era in Swiss and European hospitality when it reopened in 2017 Lounges and Bars unite in this spectacular setting atop the Bürgenberg mountain ridge The team utilises their surroundings to the maximum by presenting an offering of more than 100 total activities Bürgenstock Resort’s Diamond Domes offer the highest-specification tennis facilities for use year-round and this summer the resort will provide exclusive tennis experiences Slovakian tennis champion Dominik Hrbatý will visit on August 3rd offering elite one-on-one coaching sessions and a meet-and-greet cocktail session with guests LUX Tennis coaches will share their unique champion-building methodology in a five-day training camp for kids and teenagers looking to improve their technique running from 29th July to 2nd August and 5th to 9th August Bürgenstock Resort will host a thrilling Sky High Yoga & Brunch on its mountainside viewing platform Guests can savour expansive views of Alpine meadows and Lake Lucerne while stretching and revitalising with yoga gurus Meret and Mate guests will enjoy an energising brunch at Palace Terrace featuring fresh infusions and delicious healthy options The exclusive Bürgenstock Alpine Golf course also offers a captivating mountain backdrop with Golf Pros available for private lessons For a more sedate yet still enjoyable afternoon the resort offers an on-site private cinema where the Euro Championship and Olympic Games will be streaming guests may choose to relax and unwind in the transformative Bürgenstock Alpine Spa The tranquil 10,000 sqm haven of vitality and relaxation combines the finest in wellness in an impressive space with indoor and outdoor pools including the breath-taking Infinity Edge Outdoor Pool thirteen modern treatment rooms and a fitness area open 24 hours a day Guests can also take advantage of the Waldhotel Stay & Dine package which includes an overnight stay at the Waldhotel Health & Wellbeing a three-course dinner at ‘Seven Kitchens’ at Verbena Restaurant an open invitation to the ‘Healthy by Nature’ Waldhotel Spa and use of the MS Bürgenstock Catamaran and the Bürgenstock Funicular venture beyond the resort’s confines to discover the rich tapestry of experiences awaiting in the surrounding area Explore the charming villages dotting the shores of Lake Lucerne where centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with modern elegance Cruise the crystalline waters of the lake aboard a historic paddle steamer taking in vistas of snow-capped peaks mirrored in the azure depths below Immerse yourselves in the rich culture and history of the region Escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary this summer amidst the pristine splendour of the Swiss Alps Related: Off-grid, wifi-free adventures for the family this summer Read more We do not charge or put articles behind a paywall please show your appreciation for our free content by donating whatever you think is fair to help keep TLE growing and support real Editorial enquiries, please contact: [email protected] Commercial enquiries, please contact: [email protected] © The London Economic Newspaper Limited t/a TLE thelondoneconomic.com - All Rights Reserved. Privacy © The London Economic Newspaper Limited t/a TLE thelondoneconomic.com - All Rights Reserved. Privacy From Lucerne to Geneva to Basel and beyond we take a look at how you can enjoy the best of this beautiful and bountiful country throughout the seasons multifaceted: the central European country of Switzerland is a true gem with some of the most beautiful scenery you’ll feast your eyes on; cities towns and villages bustling with history and heritage; and ski resorts promising some of the finest slopes to whizz down Whether you wish to walk the hiking trails, make the most of the winter sports or immerse yourself in culture, Switzerland has something to offer at all times of the year. From Lucerne to Geneva to Basel and beyond Though you can mix and match your Swiss adventures and enjoy varying activities during different months spring certainly makes for the perfect time to explore the cities and towns that abound The efficient and fast train network allows you to hop around the country in no time and enjoy trips to Lausanne and Bern with ease Geneva is a great all-rounder being surrounded by mountains and the lake boasting plenty of French influence and being packed with an abundance of history while Lausanne – at the north side of the lake – boasts a 12th-century Gothic cathedral holds a number of 13th-century gems worth exploring including the medieval clock tower known as the Zytglogge while the city’s green spaces provide some relaxing moments. Continue your Swiss tour taking the train from art-focused Basel to Zurich while Lucerne would make for a great stop on this mini tour If you thought that the mountains of Switzerland were reserved for winter sports only then you’d be wrong as summertime here offers the perfect opportunity to get your hiking shoes on or rent a bike and explore the many snow-free Alpine trails great weather and lush scenery really make Switzerland’s landscapes shine hop on a boat tour of the lake and have your camera ready for the jaw-dropping scenery along the way you can’t miss the medieval old town with its 14th-century Chapel Bridge Lugano makes for the ideal destination during the summer months as it is one of the sunniest spots in all of Switzerland visitors can expect to find plenty of Italian influence from the language spoken to the cuisine and architecture which sits on one of the country’s picturesque lakes Lugano is surrounded by mountains and promises incredible views if you brave the funicular This time of year often brings with it the need to reset and relax, and Switzerland is just the place to indulge in this. With wellness tourism on the rise in recent years, Switzerland is way ahead of its game with medical spas in stunning locations providing the chance for guests to step away from their lives and find a rejuvenating path forward Zermatt offers up some welcoming wellness retreats with spas and pools offering top-notch views but it’s the likes of the iconic Chenot Palace Weggis overlooking the Alps and Lake Lucerne which invite tired guests in to reset and get a workup of their using innovative medical technologies to work out a plan going forward For those seeking to immerse themselves in nature exploration of one of Switzerland’s 19 parks allows you to wonder at the wildlife as you admire the luscious local landscapes Switzerland really comes into its own in winter with the array of ski resorts promising glamour off the slopes and adventure on them. But it’s not just skiing that attracts the crowds, as those seeking thrilling experiences can partake in snowboarding, heliskiing The country is renowned for having some of the best ski resorts going with Verbier Gstaad and Klosters providing some world-class experiences With views of the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc Verbier is the gateway to the 4Vallees ski area with 410km of slopes to enjoy for all skills levels has held the Winter Olympics twice and overlooks the stunning Lake St Gstaad offers an upscale skiing experience and Klosters offers a charm that attracts royals and celebrities alike down to the pastel-coloured buildings of its Old Town This compact city makes a great base for exploring some of Switzerland’s majestic Alps From fondue and locally brewed beer to regular music festivals Grab tickets to the Lucerne Festival Architectural Landmark © Peter Fischli / LUCERNE FESTIVAL One of the most exciting classical music festivals in the world the Lucerne Festival in summer attracts top orchestras conductors and musicians for a month of performances every August and September One of three music festivals taking place throughout the year – with smaller ones in March and November – the summer itinerary always sets an abstract theme to inspire its artists Past shows have featured the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and legendary pianist Martha Argerich Anton Vierietin / Shutterstock The Renaissance-style building of Lucerne’s Rathaus (town hall) also contains a brewery and pub which produces flavoursome beers that vary according to the season fragrant Rathaus Bock – a strong beer with a hint of banana An extensive menu of traditional food is also available: try the Weisswürst (spiced white sausage) or Luzerner Käsekuchen (a savory cheese tart) Roam around the Old Town Historical Landmark archways and fresco facades – Lucerne’s Old Town bursts with historical flamboyance The eclectic architecture includes buildings that date back as far as the Middle Ages Among the most beautiful are Pfistern Guildhouse (at Kornmarkt 4) the Hotel des Balances (on Weinmarkt) and the Restaurant Fritschi (at Sternenplatz 5) Also carve out some time to visit the ancient St Peter’s Chapel on Kapellplatz Lucerne’s wooden Chapel Bridge might be one of the city’s most photographed spots it’s one of Europe’s oldest covered bridges and veers off at a peculiar angle the most remarkable thing about it is only revealed once you start to walk across – the interior is decorated with a series of 17th-century paintings depicting a Danse Macabre-style meditation on mortality and existence Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $800 on our unique trips See privacy policy Dine with a view at Château Gütsch Hotel H-AB Photography / Shutterstock An epic Lake Lucerne view and opulent interiors make this castle-like hotel well worth the climb up Gütsch hill – or you can always take the funicular At the restaurant – ask for a table on the terrace in summer – you’ll find an Italian menu such as veal tagliatelle and home-made mocha ice cream Even a quick aperitivo at the bar is a sensationally glamorous experience green velvet upholstery and panoramic windows import PrebidBidService from "/v1/js/PrebidBidService.js"; import AmazonBidService from "/v1/js/AmazonBidService.js"; window.addEventListener('intersecting',async (e) => { const element = document.querySelector('[data-id="in_article_3"]'); const slot = element.getAttribute('id'); if(e.detail.slotName !== slot) { return; } let promises = []; if(window.canRunPrebid) { const prebidService = new PrebidBidService(); promises.push(prebidService.requestPrebidBids(null [slot])); } if(window.canRunAmazon) { const amazonService = new AmazonBidService(); promises.push(amazonService.fetchBids(null [slot])); } if(promises?.length) { await Promise.all(promises).then(() => { googletag.pubads().refresh([window.addSlot[slot]]); }); } else { googletag.pubads().refresh([window.addSlot[slot]]); } }); See the modern masterpieces of the Rosengart Collection Museum © Lucerne Tourism / Jan Geerk View Tour The snowy peaks of Mount Pilatus don’t just beautifully frame the city – they provide an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors just 20 minutes away The world’s steepest cogwheel railway is an excellent way to take in the alpine scenery – and you can even ride in the driver’s cabin take a panoramic cable car trip to the top from Kriens Indulge in cheese at Chäs Barmettler Cheesemonger Get a whiff of the finest Swiss cheeses at this independent cheese shop The 100 or so varieties for sale include local favourites such as Emmentaler and Gruyère plus international types not easily found outside of Europe You can also try a fresh-from-the-over cheese pie or pick up everything you need for your own gooey feast Guides & Tips Beat the Crowds with these Alternative Summer Destinations See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in September Guides & Tips The Best Places to Travel in August See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in October See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Autumn Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in December See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in July Guides & Tips This Is Europe's Ultimate Road Trip See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Summer Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in November See & Do Lesser-Known Summer Destinations to Visit in Europe See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Spring US: +1 (678) 967 4965 | UK: +44 (0)1630 35000 tripssupport@theculturetrip.com © Copyright 2025 The Culture Trip Ltd Deputies on Thursday arrested Darrell Reshad Turner III, 23, on two counts of first-degree murder that resulted from the unlawful distribution of a controlled substance in the deaths of Ivan Perez, 48, and his wife, Theodolinda, 53. According to a motion for pretrial detention and search warrant affidavits filed in the case, deputies responded on Feb. 18 to a double fatal overdose call at the couple’s home on Lake Lucerne Way, in the Lucerne on Lake Brandon apartment complex. Investigators found Theodolinda Perez’s purse next to her body in the apartment’s living room. Inside the purse, investigators found a pill bottle containing about a half-gram of fentanyl. Detectives searched Ivan Perez’s cellphone and saw that a drug transaction for $40 worth of fentanyl happened on Feb. 17 about 2:48 p.m. with someone whose number was not saved in his phone, records state. Theodolinda Perez sent two CashApp transactions totaling $40 to an account that belonged to Turner, records state. On Feb. 20, detectives used Theodolinda or Ivan’s cellphone — it’s unclear which — to arrange another fentanyl sale with Turner. He showed up to the predetermined sale location and tried to flee when he saw deputies but was taken into custody on charges of delivery and possession of a controlled substance and resisting law enforcement without violence. He had in his possession the cellphone that was used to communicate with deputies to arrange the sale, records state. Records show Turner was released on Feb. 23 after posting $4,000 bail. After the Hillsborough Medical Examiner confirmed the Perezes both died of fentanyl overdose, detectives obtained a warrant for Turner’s arrest on July 9. He was being held Friday without bond. Prosecutors have filed a motion seeking to keep Turner in jail pending the resolution of his case. A hearing on the motion has not been set. Tony Marrero is the criminal justice and breaking news reporter. Reach him at tmarrero@tampabay.com.