Rigi

Rigi is a mountain massif in Central Switzerland, and from the town of Arth on Lake Zug one of Europe's two oldest rack railways climbs it. Its summit, Rigi Kulm, stands at 1,797 m above sea level. Nicknamed the "Queen of the Mountains", Rigi has drawn visitors for more than two centuries, mostly for the views from the top.

Where is Rigi?

Rigi belongs to the Schwyz Alps and is shared between the cantons of Schwyz and Lucerne, with the summit of Rigi Kulm inside Schwyz. Water wraps around almost the entire massif: Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug and the small Lake Lauerz. Because it rises alone above the lakes, no higher range blocks the panorama.

How do you reach Rigi Kulm?

The classic way up is by cog railway. The line from Vitznau opened in May 1871 and was the first mountain railway in Europe. The line from Arth followed in June 1875 and joins the Vitznau route at Rigi Staffel, from where both continue together to the top. Arth sits on the main rail corridor from Zurich and Lucerne, which makes it an easy starting point if you travel by train.

Halfway up the Vitznau route is Rigi Kaltbad, a hotel village where a branch heads toward Rigi Scheidegg. It makes a good stop for a walk or a meal.

What will you see at the top?

From Rigi Kulm you look down on the lakes around the base and, on a clear day, across to further Alpine ranges. A hotel has stood on the summit since 1816, a sign of how early tourism began here. In the nineteenth century larger hotels followed at Kaltbad and on the summit, each able to host several hundred guests.

Walking trails start near Rigi Kulm and Rigi Staffel. You can ride up and walk down to an intermediate station, or do it the other way round.

When should you go?

Visibility decides everything, so check the forecast and the summit webcams before setting out. Days after a weather front passes usually offer the clearest views, when fog is not sitting over the lakes. In summer hiking dominates; in winter the mountain draws walkers and visitors chasing views above the clouds.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Rigi Kulm?

The main summit, Rigi Kulm, is 1,797 m above sea level.

Should I take the railway from Vitznau or from Arth?

Both reach the summit and meet at Rigi Staffel. Vitznau gives you the route via Rigi Kaltbad, while Arth is the easiest start for travellers coming by train from Zurich.

Which railway is older?

The Vitznau line (1871) is older and was Europe's first mountain railway. The Arth line opened in 1875.

Which canton is Rigi in?

The massif lies in the cantons of Schwyz and Lucerne, and the summit of Rigi Kulm is in Schwyz.