Sonnenberg, a beautiful mountain near Lucerne, offers a charming escape with stunning views and family-friendly activities. We took the historic Sonnenbergbahn funicular from Kriens to the summit at about 700 meters (approximately 2,300 ft). This small blue funicular, opened in 1902, climbs 200 meters in around 8–10 minutes using cars restored to their original design, providing a nostalgic ride experience. If you bring a stroller, be aware that there are stairs.
At the base station, there is a small lot with about 10 spaces next to the funicular, and additional parking garages are available nearby if needed. Sonnenberg is close to the famous Pilatus; while its peak is lower, it offers a much more affordable alternative for visitors seeking mountain views without the high cost. The area is also less crowded.
At the top, Hotel Sonnenberg features a restaurant, a playground for children, a mini golf course with panoramic views, and even a small farm with mini horses and dwarf rabbits, making it perfect for families. Note that the mini golf course is made of concrete, which is different from what we were used to. Balls, clubs, and scorecards can be picked up at the small kiosk on the lower level of the hotel. There may not be anyone at the kiosk, and guests can pay on the honor system with TWINT or cash. After our round of mini golf, we enjoyed ice cream at the hotel while taking in the beautiful views.
For hiking enthusiasts and families, Sonnenberg features several trails, including the popular Zwergenweg (Dwarf Trail), a circular path inspired by a local children’s book. This trail is about 2.6 km long and offers a magical nature experience with story panels, ideal for families with kids who enjoy a gentle hike.
Overall, Sonnenberg is a delightful mountain destination near Lucerne, combining historic charm, family-friendly fun, and accessible hiking with breathtaking views at a fraction of the cost of nearby peaks like Pilatus.