24. 11.2025
Pilatus arises just an hour from Lucerne. This is the majestic Dragon Mountain, which in winter is transformed into the elegance of snow, silence and unexpected luxury. A place where one can start the day in a gondola with a glass of Champagne and end it with dinner at 2 132 metres above sea level, while dozens of Alpine peaks sparkle before your eyes.
The winter atmosphere of the local mountains has a special ability to slow down one’s pace and offer space for real relaxation. Just a short trip through the city and one finds oneself at the lower station of the cable car, from where departure to the snowy kingdom begins. In half an hour, the gondola transports you over the Lucerne suburbs and the nature reserve to Fräkmüntegg, where one changes over to the iconic Dragon Ride. This cable car ascends the steep cliff in five minutes, transporting passengers to a world of clear winter silence and Alpine panoramas.
To start the day in style, book a ride on the Champagne Gondola. Wrapped in a soft blanket, with a glass of Champagne in hand, one ascends high above the snowy landscape. The experience is supremely tranquil, intimate and, without exaggeration, one of those to be remembered long after one’s return.
In addition, from January 2026, the unique “Breathe with Pilatus” art project will brighten the winter months here. A soft “breathing” space inspired by the silence of the winter Alps awaits visitors to the Dragon Forum. This is a multi-sensory venue, where one can slow down to enjoy a moment of peace – a wonderful contrast to the energy of the surrounding mountains.
A visit to the summit would not be complete without a culinary experience. In the Pilatus-Kulm à la carte restaurant, one may enjoy Swiss winter specialities and elegant service with a memorable panoramic view. For a special evening, treat yourself to a four-course candlelit dinner in the historical Queen Victoria Hall – the sunset views are particularly magical here in winter. One may also extend the journey by staying overnight at the Pilatus-Kulm hotel on the summit, where a quiet night and a slow morning sunrise add to the idyllic winter atmosphere.
For those who love to exercise, there are several marked snowshoe trails between Kriensereg and Fräkmüntegg. Hiking in deep snow under the monumental walls of the mountain massif is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a while. On your return, warm yourself up with hot chocolate in the cosy hut on Fräkmüntegg or right on the summit of Pilatus Kulm.
Mount Pilatus towering above Lucerne offers an unusual combination of luxury, peace and breathtaking winter Nature. If seeking a destination to enjoy an elegant winter stay with views to be etched in the memory, this is the address that will not disappoint.
TEXT: Jan Ursíny
Ezio Indiani has dedicated more than 50 years of his life to the hotel industry and to this day is one of the most respected figures in this field. At the helm of Milan’s hotel Principe di Savoia, he proves that true luxury is not hidden in marble and gold, but in a human approach, empathy and discreet gestures.
01. 01.2026
In winter, the Krkonoše literally turn into a fairytale paradise for skiers. You can appreciate the beautiful natural corners, and especially relish the white gifts on the pistes and cross-country trails in one of the mountain resorts, Horní Malá Úpa. In Hradečanka and Jeřabinka chalets, which are located right at the piste, guests are completely taken care of.
09. 12.2025
Developed by MadFox design
