Did you know that Weggis-Vitznau has more to offer than just breathtaking scenery and the Rigi? Hidden treasures and exciting stories are waiting to be discovered in this charming region on Lake Lucerne.
Are you ready for an adventure? Then let our 10 fun facts guide you through the region. You’ll be amazed at the surprises Weggis-Vitznau has in store for you!
Discover, for example:
- Which multicultural festivals are celebrated in the region
- Why Weggis is known as the Riviera of Central Switzerland
- Where to find the first mountain railway in Europe
And much more!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your family, friends or partner and embark on an unforgettable journey through Weggis-Vitznau.
Be inspired by our fun facts and discover the secret treasures of this beautiful region!
Fun facts about the Weggis-Vitznau region that you didn’t know yet!
1st Guategisso
In 1116 Weggis was referred to as “Guategiso or Guategisso”. However, in the documents from 1275 – 1276, the village was called “Wetgis” or “Waetgis”.
2. first mountain railway in Europe
The first mountain railway in Europe began operating in Vitznau 150 years ago. From a simple fishing village, Vitznau became the “gateway to the Rigi” and a stopover for many travellers.
3rd Riviera
Weggis offers peace and relaxation in front of a beautiful lake and mountain panorama. The region on the southern slope of the Rigi is often referred to as the “Riviera” of Central Switzerland.
4th Vitzen-ouwa
In 1342, “Vitzenouwa” is mentioned as a fief of the Lords of Ramstein. After some modifications, “Vitznau” has been used as a place name since the 17th century. Place name research explains the name elements as follows: Vitzen goes back to the personal name Fizo and -ouwa means “land by the water”. Vitznau therefore refers to a settlement on the water that once belonged to the Fizo or was inhabited by the Fizo.
5 From agriculture to tourism
Until the 19th century, farming, fishing and hunting were the main sources of income for the people of Weggis and Vitznau. Thanks to their location, the two municipalities gradually became more touristic, which is why the service sector also expanded rapidly in this area. Today, this sector accounts for almost 50% of jobs in Weggis and Vitznau.
6 Switzerland’s first adventure fortress
Since 1998, the formerly highly secret artillery fortress in Vitznau with its mighty cannons has been open to you as the first fortress experience. The only artillery fortress in the canton of Lucerne at the entrance to the Réduit.
7th Rigigemeinden
Weggis and Vitznau, together with Greppen, belong to the Lucerne Rigi municipalities, which are only connected to the rest of the canton by the lake.
8 The Heirassa Festival
The Heirassa Festival is the largest folk music festival in Switzerland. More than 30 bands play over 100 hours of folk music in 15 concert venues at the Heirassa Festival Weggis.
9. cave bears and cave hyenas
In the early 20th century, excavations were carried out in the Steigelfadbalm cave above Vitznau. Bones of cave bears and cave hyenas, stone tools and fireplaces were found. The first traces of human presence date back to the Neolithic period, and it is assumed that the cave has been inhabited since the Bronze Age.
10 Multicultural population and festivals
Weggis has a multicultural population. This diversity is also reflected in the various annual festivals in the municipality. The Rose Festival is a summer festival that provides entertainment by the lake. The China Festival takes place at the beginning of the year, offering a culinary and cultural experience of China. The riviera latina festival is celebrated on the lakeside promenade and brings Latin American flair to the village at Whitsun.
About Weggis-Vitznau
Weggis and Vitznau are two picturesque villages on Lake Lucerne in central Switzerland. The region is known for its beautiful landscape, its historical sights and its wide range of leisure activities.
Weggis lies at the foot of the Rigi and offers breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. The village is a popular holiday resort with a wide range of hotels, restaurants and shops.
Vitznau is a charming lakeside village with a beautiful old town. From Vitznau, the cogwheel railway takes you up the Rigi, the “Queen of the Mountains”.
The Weggis-Vitznau region offers:
- Numerous hiking and cycling trails
- Various water sports facilities
- A golf course
- A mineral bath & spa
- Museums and galleries
- A varied cultural programme
Weggis and Vitznau are ideal for:
- Nature lovers
- active holidaymakers
- families
- couples
- Connoisseurs
Bonus tip: Discover the Weggis-Vitznau region with Foxtrail
Foxtrail is a unique and interactive scavenger hunt that offers visitors an innovative way to discover the Weggis-Vitznau region and its sights. In this adventure, participants are guided through the region in teams, solving puzzles and deciphering clues to find the next location on their way. This experience is designed to not only encourage physical movement through the region, but also to challenge teamwork and logical thinking.
How does the Foxtrail in Weggis-Vitznau work?
Starting point: Each Foxtrail begins at a designated starting point, where teams receive their documents and initial instructions. This marks the start of their adventure through Weggis-Vitznau.
Solve puzzles: Participants have to solve various puzzles that lead them to hidden messages, unusual places and impressive sights in Weggis-Vitznau. The puzzles are designed to encourage participants to take a closer look at their surroundings and to engage with the history and culture of the region.
Team experience: Although Foxtrail can be experienced with family, friends or as a team-building activity with colleagues, the focus is on the shared experience. The tasks require communication and co-operation, which makes the whole thing a social experience.
By taking part in a Foxtrail in Weggis-Vitznau, visitors are given the opportunity to explore the region in a fun way. They not only discover the well-known sights, but also hidden corners and special places that are off the beaten track. At the same time, they learn interesting facts about Weggis-Vitznau and its history, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Foxtrail thus offers a perfect combination of adventure, culture and fun, ideal for anyone who wants to discover the Weggis-Vitznau region in a unique and interactive way.
