Rigi Kulm is the highest peak of the Rigi mountain massif in Central Switzerland. The massif lies between Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug and Lake Lauerz. A trip to Kulm therefore focuses on both a clearly named summit and the larger mountain landscape.
Far-reaching views, with one important caveat
The Rigi offers sweeping views of Lake Lucerne and the Central and Bernese Alps. In optimal conditions, the view from Rigi Kulm at 1,797 m above sea level extends across 24 of Switzerland’s 26 cantons. So if you are travelling to Kulm for the views, plan for a weather-dependent experience rather than a guaranteed view of every canton.
Mountain chapel and Chäserenholz cheese
The Regina Montium mountain chapel was built in 1967 and is the newest chapel on the Rigi. It is made of simple natural stone.
Cheese-making takes centre stage at the Chäserenholz alp. Up to 12,000 kilograms of cheese are produced there every summer, with up to 15 different varieties made each year. Individuals can visit the cheese dairy, although seasonal operations may vary. Check the details for your intended visit date in advance.
Hiking and activities with different conditions
There are many hiking trails on the Rigi. Hiking is therefore an activity across the mountain massif, while some experiences are specifically tied to Rigi Kulm. This distinction helps with planning: you can think of the greater Rigi area as a hiking destination or focus on the summit and its named attractions.
A tandem paragliding flight takes off from Rigi Kulm at 1,797 m above sea level and heads towards Arth-Goldau. Unlike at a viewpoint, both a take-off point and a flight direction are specified here. Flights are weather-dependent, and offer details may change. If you are planning a flight, check the current offer details in advance.
The rental centre for sledges and snowshoes is right next to the Rigi Kulm mountain station. Operating details may vary; if you are making concrete plans, check the centre’s current information. This lets you include both rental options in your travel plans without equating them with the weather-dependent conditions of a tandem flight.
Getting here and finding accommodation
A cogwheel railway runs from Arth-Goldau to Rigi Kulm. The Rigi as a mountain area is also accessible from several villages by cogwheel railways and aerial cableways; the two cogwheel railway lines have numerous intermediate stops. These different access routes serve the Rigi as a whole, whereas the connection from Arth-Goldau specifically goes to Rigi Kulm. Check the timetable for your planned journey before departure.
When looking for a holiday apartment in Kulm, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your stay: summit panoramas, culture, cheese-making or outdoor activities on the Rigi. Each of these interests raises different planning questions—from weather-dependent long-distance views to the seasonal operation of the cheese dairy.
For the broader travel overview: Arth.
