Mount Pilatus

Pilatus is practically on the doorstep — the gondola base station is a few minutes from the apartment by bus. Take the gondola up from Kriens, walk one of the ridge trails, and come back down via the mountain railway to Alpnachstad (or the other way around). On a clear day the views over Lake Lucerne and the Alps are genuinely worth it. The summit area has a restaurant and hotel if you want to stay for sunset.

Works well for all ages. The lower cable car stop at Krienseregg has a playground (Pilu Land) and picnic spots. One station higher, Fräkmüntegg has a rope park and Switzerland's longest summer toboggan run (Fräkigaudi). For adults, the ridge walks and the panorama at the top are the main draw.

For those who want to walk up from Kriens: there is a marked trail directly from the neighbourhood to the summit — scenic, but steep and strenuous. Sturdy hiking boots are essential. Check the weather before setting off, bring enough water and food, and leave plenty of time.