Nestled above the picturesque village of Lungern in central Switzerland, the Lungern-Turren mountain area is surrounded by rolling green meadows and majestic mountains. This tranquil spot offers breathtaking views of the turquoise Lungernsee below and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful picnic, a leisurely walk, or a playground with a view, Lungern-Turren is the perfect destination for a family day out.
Lungern-Turren Cable Car
The adventure begins with a scenic ride on the Lungern-Turren cable car. The ascent takes just under 10 minutes, whisking you from the valley floor at 750 meters up to the Turren mountain station at 1,562 meters. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the bright blue lake and the surrounding mountains. Holders of the Swiss Half-Fare Card, Swiss Travel Pass, and Junior Cards receive discounts, and children aged 5 and under ride for free.
Hiking Trails and Picnic Spots
Once at the top, many hiking and walking trails await. If you turn right from the cable car station, you’ll find a paved, stroller-friendly path that leads to a lovely picnic area in just 15 minutes. Here, picnic tables and barbecues are set against a backdrop of sweeping mountain views—perfect for a family lunch. Exploring some of the other trails may be less engaging for children, as Lungern-Turren currently lacks a dedicated kid’s activity trail with features like marble runs, interactive stations, or mazes. The addition of such a trail in the future would further enhance its family-friendly appeal.
Playground
For now, the playground remains a highlight for children. Turning left after exiting the cable car and heading toward the restaurant, you’ll spot a large, modern playground. This area features a massive slide, swings, and plenty of climbing structures—enough to keep kids entertained for a considerable time. Families can relax here while the children burn off energy in the fresh mountain air.
Restaurant Turren
When hunger strikes, Restaurant Turren, a self-service eatery, serves up Swiss classics like schnitzel and sausage, along with a dedicated kids’ menu featuring favorites like chicken nuggets. Families are well-catered for, with high chairs available and both indoor and outdoor seating that overlooks the playground, allowing parents to enjoy a meal while keeping an eye on their little ones.
Parking and Dundelbach Waterfall
Getting to Lungern-Turren is easy. A large pay parking lot is conveniently located next to the cable car station. It’s just a 30-minute drive from Lucerne or Interlaken, making it an ideal stop if you’re traveling between these two popular destinations. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the road past the farms (complete with grazing cows) leads to the Dundelbach waterfall trail, about a 15-minute walk from the parking lot. While this path isn’t stroller-friendly and has a slight incline, it’s a delightful detour for nature lovers and photographers.
Lungern-Turren is a fantastic family destination that combines stunning alpine scenery with practical amenities and a fun playground. While the addition of more kid-focused trails would be welcome, the existing playground, picnic spots, and easy access make it a great choice for families with children of all ages. Whether you’re planning a day trip or just a scenic stop on your Swiss road trip, Lungern-Turren is sure to leave your family with wonderful memories.