After leaving the beautiful Dolomites of Northern Italy, we continued onward toward Switzerland. We had never been to Switzerland before and were excited! Unlike the countries in the EU, we had to stop at the border in Switzerland for a border check. Once accepted into their beautiful, expensive country, we took off toward Lucerne. The drive between Bolzano, IT and Lucerne, CH was gorgeous. Lucerne is an attractive city surrounding the shores of Lake Lucerne with scenic views of the Swiss Alps.
driving in Switzerland
a peak view of the 1st lake we saw in Switzerland
Views from the hotel
After trekking on a series of bicycle-path sized roads that switched-back up the mountain, we thankfully arrived safely at our destination. What the hotel lacked on the interior made up for what it had on the exterior. THE VIEWS.
The View from the hotel
Lake Lucerne
Happy boys!
People were still skiing at the peaks in April.
Hotel...nice exterior, but rooms need a make-over considering the price we paid. Guess that was for the views!
Time for a drink!
Stunning background
The Hike
After checking in, we decided to stay up on the mountain for the rest of the day and do a hike. The next morning, we would explore the city and lake front.
From the balcony of our room
We wanted to eat local food, but the place that the hotel recommended that was within walking distance was closed. Since we couldn't find a place to eat up on the mountain, we had to traverse the switch-backs again before finding a delicious Italian restaurant at the foothills. Switzerland, as you know, is a very expensive country. For pizzas, a couple glasses of wine, and 2 sodas, we spent well over a $100 on dinner. Ouch!
Lake Lucerne
Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) is a footbridge across the Reuss River. It dates back to the 14th century. It is famous for paintings on its trusses. These were done in the 17th century, but were destroyed in a fire in 1993. Since then, they have been restored.
We are in Switzerland!
Pretty buildings long the Reuss River
Interesting flag
Walking the streets of Lucerne
Discovering the old city walls of Lucerne
Walking on top of the old city walls that surround Lucerne
Old city walls
After leaving Lucerne, we decided to wait until we crossed into France before filling up since it would be cheaper. Gas is insanely expensive in Europe alone. I couldn't imagine paying in Swiss Francs. We made it into France & filled up, but it was a close call with the gas gauge teetering toward empty. And I never thought I would say this, but the Euro never looked so good! ;)
Next up: Colmar, France
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