ForbesLife: Finding Zen Luxury in Weggis, Switzerland
Mark Twain sought solace and inspiration in the hills of Weggis, Switzerland. And it’s not hard to see why—blame it on the seemingly endless serene waters of Lake Lucerne; the surrounding Swiss Alps with unfathomable peaks and forested crevices; or the few crowds and deliciously fresh air. Whatever the reason, add this quaint, under-the-radar lakeside town to your bucket list for an idyllic escape in nature’s best playground.
The PLAN: From Zurich, take a one hour train jaunt to Lucerne, a bustling lakefront metropolis that mixes cutting-edge concert halls with ancient bridges, castles, and a cobbled Old Town. Stroll the tree-lined waterfront promenade with a stop at Palace Luzern’s terraced restaurant Marlin for local vino and people watching. Better yet, check-in for the night and your suite will boast stellar lake, mountain, and cityscapes. The next morning, fuel up with a traditional Bretzel sandwich (think: meats and cheeses layered between a thinly sliced pretzel) and hop a 40-minute ferry to Weggis.
STAY: Set on the shores of Lake Lucerne, Park Weggis sets the standard for Zen luxury in this town, from the raked-stone Japanese bonsai garden to the Orient-inspired spa. Linked by a winding boardwalk fringed with Buddhist sculptures, the complex marries a circa-1875 towered castle with mod glass-and-steel structures.
Rooms are decked in luxury: for the ultimate, book the Mark Twain suite with modern minimalist décor from Philippe Starck-designed standalone tubs complete with Bvlgari bath amenities to low-slung sectionals, and balconies with primo nature vistas.
PLAY: You can lounge lakefront on the resort’s private grassy beach; kayak and paddle board at your whim; take a dip in the covered infinity-edge outdoor pool; bliss-out with a Himalayan massage; or snag a spa cottage for cold water therapy, whirlpool and sauna all your own. Or venture beyond with boat rides around the shore; a gondola up to Mt. Rigi’s peaks for bird’s eye hiking; a stroll around Weggis’s charming town and waterfront path; or “borrow” the hotel’s Porsche 911 for gasp-worthy Alpine cruising.
EAT: Al fresco lunch at Sparks’ terrace overlooking the resort’s fountain-decked grounds is a must for traditional Swiss fare and choice vino from the 2,500-bottle wine cellar. For dinner, Park Grill serves up lakefront sunsets, fresh-baked bread, and seasonal Lobster Bisque that rivals the New England coast.