Gelmersee: Alpine Reservoir With Spectacular Funicular Railroad

Nestled deep within the majestic Swiss Alps lies Gelmersee, an alpine reservoir that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty. Beyond the breathtaking vistas, Gelmersee offers a thrilling journey via Europe’s steepest funicular railway, the Gelmerbahn, setting the stage for an unforgettable day of adventure. From the scenic train ride to the invigorating hike around the lake, this alpine oasis promises an experience that will leave you awestruck and eager to uncover more.

Key Points

• Gelmersee is an alpine reservoir with a scenic funicular railroad, offering a 1-day excursion from Lucerne for $453.01 per person.
• The excursion includes a 112-minute train ride, 12-minute cable car journey, and a 2.5-hour hike around the serene Lake Gelmer.
• The Gelmerbahn funicular, with a 106% gradient, is Europe’s steepest, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.
• The hike around Lake Gelmer offers opportunities for wildlife spotting and an optional refreshing dip in the lake.
• Visitors should wear sturdy hiking shoes, pack layered trekking gear, and bring sufficient water and provisions for a day in the Swiss Alps.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Gelmersee is an alpine reservoir that offers visitors a spectacular funicular railroad experience.

An alpine reservoir offering visitors a spectacular funicular railroad experience, the Gelmersee is a must-visit destination in the Swiss Alps.

From Lucerne, travelers can embark on a 1-day excursion to the Gelmersee for $453.01 per person. The tour includes a 112-minute train ride, a 12-minute cable car journey, and hiking around the crystal-clear lake.

Visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The reserve now, pay later option is also available.

With its stunning alpine scenery and unique mode of transportation, the Gelmersee is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts exploring the Swiss Alps.

Itinerary and Duration

The Gelmersee excursion lasts 1 day, starting from the Torbogen Luzern location. Travelers first take a 112-minute train ride to the Gelmer Funicular. Then, they enjoy a 12-minute cable car ascent before hiking around the crystal-clear Lake Gelmer for 2.5 hours. After that, they hike 1.5 hours down to the valley floor. Finally, the journey concludes with a 2.43-hour train ride back to Torbogen Luzern.

| Duration | Starting Location | Itinerary |

| — | — | — |

| 1 day | Torbogen Luzern | Train (112 min), Cable car (12 min), Hike around Lake Gelmer (2.5 hr), Hike to valley (1.5 hr), Train (2.43 hr) |

Highlights and Activities

Panoramic train rides from Lucerne to the Gelmerbahn offer breathtaking Alpine scenery, setting the stage for an exhilarating experience.

The Gelmerbahn, Europe’s steepest funicular with a 106% gradient, provides an adrenaline-fueled journey up the mountain.

Hikers can then explore the circular trail around the crystal-clear waters of Lake Gelmer, surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks. An optional refreshing dip in the lake is a highlight.

The picturesque hike to the valley floor through forests and meadows offers a chance to fully immerse in the untouched natural beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Scenic Train Journey

As travelers embark on the journey to Gelmersee, they’re treated to a scenic train ride from Lucerne that showcases the breathtaking Alpine scenery.

The train winds through deep blue lakes, rolling hills, and towering mountain peaks, offering a captivating preview of the natural wonders to come. The journey lasts for 112 minutes, providing ample time to soak in the stunning vistas.

This scenic train ride sets the stage for the remarkable Gelmerbahn funicular and the serene hike around the glacier-fed Lake Gelmer, creating an unforgettable Swiss Alps experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Gelmerbahn: Europe’s Steepest Funicular

Gelmerbahn, Europe’s steepest funicular, awaits visitors after the scenic train journey from Lucerne. This engineering marvel features a staggering 106% gradient, propelling passengers up the mountainside.

The cable car’s design and construction are feats of Swiss ingenuity, carrying riders 1,045 meters above sea level in just 12 minutes. Visitors are treated to panoramic vistas of the rugged Alpine landscape as the funicular ascends the steep incline.

Gelmerbahn’s daring design and breathtaking scenery make it a highlight of the Gelmersee experience, showcasing the country’s commitment to innovative transportation infrastructure amidst natural wonders.

Exploring Lake Gelmer

After the thrilling Gelmerbahn ascent, visitors are rewarded with the chance to explore the stunning Lake Gelmer.

The crystal-clear alpine lake, surrounded by majestic glaciers, offers a serene escape. Hikers can circumnavigate the lake on a 2.5-hour trail, taking in:

• Breathtaking views of the rugged mountain peaks

• Opportunities to spot wildlife, like chamois and ibex

• The option for a refreshing dip in the glacial waters

This circular hike showcases the untouched natural beauty of the Swiss Alps, providing a memorable experience for all who venture to this remote alpine sanctuary.

Hiking to the Valley Floor

After the serene exploration of Lake Gelmer, visitors embark on a 1.5-hour hike down to the valley floor. The descent offers stunning vistas, as the trail winds through lush forests and verdant meadows. As hikers make their way down, they witness the gradual transformation of the landscape, from the rugged alpine terrain to the more gentle, pastoral scenery of the valley. This transition provides a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the diverse natural wonders of the region.

| Path Terrain | Duration | Difficulty |

|————–|———–|————|

| Forests | 45 mins | Moderate |

| Meadows | 30 mins | Easy |

| Valley Floor | 15 mins | Easy |

Preparation and Requirements

The Gelmersee experience isn’t suitable for visitors with mobility impairments, as the itinerary involves a significant amount of hiking.

Adventurers should come prepared with:

• Sturdy hiking shoes

• Layered trekking gear

• Sufficient water and provisions

There are no catering facilities along the way, so it’s important to pack everything needed for a day in the Swiss Alps.

This comprehensive experience combines the engineering marvel of the Gelmerbahn with the natural beauty of the glacier-fed lake and surrounding peaks.

Careful planning is essential to fully appreciate the untouched alpine scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Funicular Ride?

Photography is permitted during the funicular ride, allowing visitors to capture the stunning alpine scenery and impressive engineering feat of Europe’s steepest funicular railway.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The itinerary notes that there are no catering facilities along the way, so travelers should plan to pack sufficient provisions for the day.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Gelmerbahn Ride?

The Gelmerbahn funicular ride doesn’t have any age restrictions. However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments, so parents should assess their children’s physical abilities before booking the tour.

Is the Hike Around Lake Gelmer Considered Strenuous?

The hike around Lake Gelmer is considered moderately strenuous, as it takes around 2.5 hours and covers an elevation change. Proper hiking gear and preparation are recommended to fully enjoy the stunning alpine scenery along the trail.

Can I Leave My Luggage at the Starting Point in Lucerne?

You can leave your luggage at the starting point in Lucerne. The tour operator provides storage facilities for your belongings while you explore the scenic route to Lake Gelmer and the surrounding Alps.

Recap

Gelmersee offers an unforgettable Swiss Alps adventure. The stunning alpine reservoir can be accessed via a scenic train ride, Europe’s steepest funicular, and a picturesque hike. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking mountain views, explore wildlife, and even take a refreshing dip in the lake. Gelmersee is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts seeking an awe-inspiring alpine experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: