Firvaldshtetskoe Lake

• Location: Central Switzerland
• Regions: Uri, Schwyz, Luzern, Obwalden, Nidwalden
• Height above sea level: 434 m
• Area: 113.8 km²
• The greatest depth: 214 m

There is such an ancient legend: when God created the world, he sent an angel to pour water into all the lakes. Flying over the Alps, the angel held a vessel with water in his hands, but accidentally touched one of the mountain peaks, and the water poured out onto the valley. On this place, an unusually beautiful lake appeared, the shape of which resembles a cross.

Basic information

The Firvaldshtete lake is still known as the lake of the Four Cantons. Formerly on its shores were four cantons: Schwyz, Lucerne , Uri and Unterwalden. Therefore, in the guidebooks it is also called the Lucerne Lake. Later, Unterwalden split into two semi-cantons: Nidwalden and Obwalden, but they did not rename the pond.

This lake is located in central Switzerland and is one of the main attractions that constantly attracts tourists. Due to this, it became the state property. Every year the Jazz Festival , national holidays and concerts for the selected public are held here. It is worth mentioning one interesting fact: the name "Lunar" Sonata by Beethoven was received after comparing it with the moonlight over the Firvaldshtetzer lake music critic L. Relshtab.

It is well located at an altitude of four hundred and thirty-four meters, in the intermountain tectonic hollow that formed during the ice age, and occupies part of the foot of the mountain of Riga in the Swiss Alps . The lake consists of four basins, which are interconnected by fairly narrow ones - up to one kilometer - by straits. Its area is 113.78 km & sup2, and the maximum depth is 214 meters.

In the spring, the water reserves in the lake are replenished thanks to the sinks of thawed Alpine glaciers. Through the lake flows the river Royce (Reuss), so it is flowing. Tourists are always attracted by the water of a sky blue color, which is so transparent that it reflects the mountainous terrain of the coasts. If you dream of a swim in the blue expanses, it is best to visit the lake in summer, when the water warms to twenty degrees, and comfortable and modern beaches will begin to work.

Attractions and excursions

Here you can book a tour of the mountain ranges, admire the sights of the Swiss Alps, visit the zoo, which collected all the flora and fauna of the reserve. For tourists there will be entertainment for all tastes: to travel by toboggan, to be an alpinist in a rope park, to ride a bicycle along the lake, to be impressed by the picturesque nature, to visit historical reminders.

The lake in Switzerland is navigable, there are regular carriages, which are carried out by the shipping company Schifffahrtsgesellschaft des Vierwaldstättersees, and cruises. There are also a few small firms that conduct water walks in picturesque places, there is a car ferry between Gerzau and Beckenried.

The main resorts

Speaking about rest on the Lake of Firvaldshtets in Switzerland, I would like to note four main resorts:

1. Bürgenstock . It is the oldest and most famous European mountain resort, which is located secluded and simultaneously close to civilization. This unique place has a crystal clear and slightly discharged air, capable of providing healing properties. It was noticed that it helps with prolonged depression and chronic insomnia, relieves stress and fatigue, regains strength and heals the body.
2. Weggis . A small town, which is located on the shore of the Firvaldshtetskoe lake. It is the heart of Central Switzerland and is situated at an altitude of four hundred and thirty-five meters above sea level. This resort has a mild climate, is protected from the wind and is saturated with lush greenery of nature, which makes it ideal for a relaxing family holiday.
3. Witznau . It is a harmonious and calm city on the shore of Lake Lucerne in Switzerland, which is located at the foot of the mountain of Riga. The peculiarity of the resort in the amazing beauty of the area and in combination of various possibilities is a sport and family holiday in the bosom of wildlife. In addition, you can visit the top of the mountain of Riga with the help of cable cars or visit one of the city's attractions - an artillery fortress that keeps the secrets of the Swiss army.
4. Brunnen . A charming town located on the shore of the Firvaldshtetsky lake, which has the most convenient geographical position and is famous for its amazing landscapes. This ideal place will especially please those who are tired of the bustle of mass tourism and dreams of getting a diverse and full vacation.

How to get there?

It is most convenient for tourists to get to the Firvaldshtetsky lake from Switzerland 's international airport in Zurich , and then take a train or bus to the above-mentioned cities.