Sunday, January 4, 2009

chillin' on a mountain top. Part 1.

The last time that I was in Switzerland, I didn't get to go up in the mountains. This time, I was determined to get above the clouds in something other than a plane. So, with higher heights in mind, we boarded the early train for Lucerne and nearby Mount Pilatus. We switched trains in Zurich, and then it was about another 45 minutes to Lucerne. Then, a short bus ride and a 10-minute walk up a hill, and we arrived at the cable-car station. Yes, we were wondering how a typical tourist would have found their way there. Thank goodness we had Andre to figure it all out.


Directions

Lucerne from the cable car

So, we hopped on the little 4-seater cable car and embarked on the 30-minute ride up the mountain. We picked a beautiful day for this excursion. NOT! It was snowing, cloudy, and 20 degrees. Brrr. This is Lucerne from the cable car.

Into the Fog

Did I mention that it was very foggy?

Lisa on the cable car

Lisa on the cable car. They were kind enough to provide genuine Swiss Army blankets for added warmth.

Halfway up Pilatus

About 3/4 of the way up the mountain, we got off and transferred to a large 40-passenger cable car. We were there fairly early in the day, so there were only four people on the car. The larger car was actually a little scarier for some people, as it swung in the breeze a little more than the small car.

Just for Andre

Andre noted that there was a railway designed just for his family. That's just special.

Winter wonderland

Traveling through a snowy, winter wonderland. These are the large 40-passenger cars, so you can see how very large these trees really are.

Breaking out of the fog

Suddenly, we ascended out of the fog and there was sunshine and mountain-tops!

Chapel

This little chapel sits all alone on the Klimsenhorn saddle. It is the only thing left of a conservatory from the 1800's.

Scary ride

We're here! I loved the ride, but I'm glad that I didn't see how steep it was beforehand.

Lisa on Pilatus
7000 feet up! Stay tuned for Part 2....

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