A Lift Leading to the Heavens: Hammetschwand Lift and cliff walk celebrate 120th anniversary

The Hammetschwand Lifts and cliff walks mark 120 years: the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne is marking the birthday of Europe’s highest open-air lift with a diverse Easter and spring programme.

Even after 120 years, it is still a futuristic spectacle: in 1905, after five years of construction, the Hammetschwand Lift carried its first passengers to an altitude of 1,132 metres and thus to the highest point in the canton of Lucerne. Since then, it has been attracting travellers from all over the world, transporting them to the spectacular vantage point of Hammetschwand in just a few moments. Despite the length and age of the lift, the journey is pleasantly short. That said, were it in fact longer, no one would complain about the few extra minutes on account of the breathtaking view over Lake Lucerne and the Alps. During its 120 years, the Hammetschwand Lift has become an important cultural asset, and it is now set to be celebrated in style. During the next weeks, an extensive programme is on offer for locals and travellers alike.

Easter weekend at the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne

Easter weekend, from 18 to 21 April 2025, will see particularly hearty celebrations. On 18 April, the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne is inviting all visitors to take a free ride in the Hammetschwand Lift. Those interested in history can also look forward to an exclusive guided tour with historian Evelyne Lüthi-Graf. On 19 April, the history of the lift will be celebrated with traditional folklore-related entertainment at the Taverne 1879 restaurant. Its motto, ​‘swissness at its best’, is no empty promise: guests will enjoy traditional, hearty cuisine, Alpine chalet architecture, and a sun terrace in the heart of the mountains. From 18 April until the end of September, an ice cream stand outside the Taverne 1879 will also be open for business, making it the perfect place to stop for a break either before or after a hike. Speaking of hikes: this season, the Felsenweg trail is marked with signs featuring QR codes that reveal exciting facts, stories, and secrets about the Bürgenstock Resort.

And because a milestone also deserves to be celebrated in style, the ​‘Above the Clouds – Anniversary Edition’ offer, consisting of a trip on the MS Bürgenstock catamaran from Lucerne, a ride with the Bürgenstock Railway and on the Hammetschwand Lift, is available throughout the season (from 18 April to the end of October 2025).

Culinary journey from Switzerland to Arabia

The summer season is scheduled to kick off over the Easter weekend: the restaurants and terraces at Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne will reopen their doors from 18 April. In addition to the Taverne 1879, the Bärgbeizli Hammetschwand will welcome guests and spoil them with regional specialities. Parisa – Persian Cuisine provides a stylish contrast, serving up authentic Persian fine dining experiences until 29 September. Those looking to see out the day in a relaxed manner can enjoy a drink on the Palace Terrace while taking in the spectacular views of Lake Lucerne. From 1 May to the end of October, the Osteria Alpina Terrazza invites guests to linger and sample some quality Italian cuisine. One true highlight of the season is the legendary Hollywood Pool at the Bürgenstock Alpine Spa. From 1 June to 30 September 2025, it promises pure relaxation at an altitude of over 1,000 metres – with a view that makes the Hammetschwand Lift seem like a lift leading to the heavens.

(The Hammetschwand Lift is closed in bad weather such as rain, strong winds, or ice. Please check the up-to-date information in advance).

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