Lucerne, gateway to Central Switzerland, is a surprising city, both for its organization and for its urban attractions as well as the surrounding countryside. The city, bathed by a beautiful lake, was selected by Avalon Waterways for an amazing cruise along the Rhine River, and many land-based attractions. Boarding on the charming ship Avalon Felicity takes place in Basel, but before, two overnight stays, free afternoon rides take place in Lucerne.
Included in the cruise, one of the tours in Lucerne is the ascent to Mount Pilatus – the “Guardian” of the city. Once at the top, at 2,072 meters of altitude, the uncovered landscapes are enchanting, and will be admired to the sound of an alpine trumpet demonstration. The mystery notes are offered by the many legends about Pilatus, among them, that of the dragon that fell from the sky in the year 1420, and still lives there today; that of the petrified man guarding the sentry in front of one of the caves; and, though more “concrete,” perhaps the boldest of all speculations-that of Pontius Pilate’s tomb.
Also included in the cruise there is a walk leading to one of the landmarks of Lucerne – the Chapel Bridge, in wood and covered (the oldest of its kind in Europe). Built in the 14th century, originally incorporated into the city’s fortifications, this bridge is adorned with pictorial panels – incorporated into the 17th century, which show scenes of the history of Switzerland and Lucerne. Another attraction of this tour is the Lion Monument, dedicated to the Swiss Guard that protected the Royal House during the French Revolution.
On the second day in Lucerne, after the tours included, the afternoon is free. This afternoon, one of the options to delve into the attractions of the city is a visit to the House of Chronoswiss, to observe watchmakers working their products with extreme mastery. After Lucerne, transfer by land to Basel, where boarding takes place. There are seven nights sailing along the Rhine, through Switzerland, France, Germany and Holland, with stops at Breisach – excursion to the Black Forest; Strasbourg – optional tours available for the Alsace wine region or the Maginot Line; Heidelberg, with a visit to the castle of the city and to the barrel of wine that is probably the largest in the world (seven meters high, eight meters wide, capacity up to 220 thousand liters).
The next cruise stop along the Rhine will be in Mainz – currently Germany’s largest and most important wine producer; then Rüdesheim, with a visit to the Museum of Mechanical Musical Instruments. In the sequence, navigation through the impressive Rhine Canyon – the most beautiful stretch of the river, to observe beautiful landscapes and castles perched on high cliffs. Also stop in Cologne, and walk through the city; and finally Amsterdam, with an overnight stay at the moored ship and canal walk.
Photo: Press Release