The cold air cuts across your face as the boat glides over the glassy waters of Lake Lucerne. Ahead, the Swiss Alps rise in cinematic splendour. From Kehrsiten, a funicular and cable car whisk you to Bürgenstock Resort, perched 500m above the lake. Cowbells chime in the distance; only a yodeller seems missing. Bürgenstock’s story spans three eras. It began 153 years ago when hotel pioneers Bucher and Durrer opened the Grand Hotel and powered its funicular with a hydroelectric plant. They later built the Hammetschwand Lift—still Europe’s tallest outdoor elevator—making the mountaintop effortlessly accessible.
The second chapter brought glamour. Under Friedrich Frey-Fürst and his son Fritz Frey, a golf course came up, Diamond Dome tennis courts and the legendary Hollywood Pool were more attractions. Opened in 1954, the resort became a magnet for icons including Audrey Hepburn, who married Mel Ferrer in its own chapel, and Sophia Loren, who owned a villa at the Bürgenstock Resort. Following a nine-year restoration, Bürgenstock reopened in 2017 with three hotels—Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa, Waldhotel, and Taverne 1879. Whether in the heritage or contemporary wing, every room frames postcard views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding alpine countryside.
The 10,000-sqm Alpine Spa is reason enough to visit. Its heated infinity pool appears to spill into the lake below, while hydrothermal circuits, saline baths and restorative treatments elevate wellness into an art form. At Waldhotel, a salt grotto and hammam complete the experience. Dining is equally indulgent across the resort’s ten restaurants. From the locally sourced fare at Oak Grill & Pool Patio to Asian favourites at Spices Kitchen, every meal comes with spectacular views. End the day with afternoon tea at the Lakeview Bar & Cigar Lounge—arguably the best seat in the Alps.
