Mount Pilatus

What makes it special

The railway climbs at up to 48 per cent, the steepest of any cogwheel railway in the world. Its cogwheels turn sideways and grip a rack in the middle of the track from both sides.

At the top are two peaks, the Esel and the Tomlishorn, which at 2,132 metres is the highest point on Pilatus. The marked Dragon Walk joins them, and an easy path leads out to the Tomlishorn. From the Esel you look out over lakes, rolling farmland and distant alpine ranges.

The summit's weather often differs from Lucerne's: it can be clear above a grey town, or in cloud on a bright day, so do not judge the day from the lakefront.

Visiting

The classic loop begins at Alpnachstad. From the boat landing an underground path leads straight to the cogwheel railway's valley station, and the climb takes about half an hour. On the way up, take a seat facing up the mountain, where you see the steepness best.

Reserve the railway at weekends, on fine days and at lunchtime during the week. Booking is not obligatory, but without it you may wait at the valley station. Pair it with Lake Lucerne or Stanserhorn.

Coming down, the aerial cableway takes three and a half minutes from the summit to Fräkmüntegg, and the panorama cabins carry on to Kriens. You can get off at Fräkmüntegg or Krienseregg and board again later. The loop also runs the other way, and in winter the Kriens route is the only way up.

Tips

Go on the first clear day you get, because a clear summit is hard to plan for. If you dislike heights, keep your eyes on the mountain rather than the drop on the way up.

For the summit paths, good shoes, weatherproof clothing and water are enough. Walking up the mountain from the valley is only advised from mid-June, and bicycles are not carried. If you go up from Kriens, the last ascent leaves at 5pm in summer and 4pm in winter.