Bürgenstock

The rich have always headed to Lake Luzern, thanks, in good part, to the famous Bürgenstock hotel resort. This high-end hideaway, perched atop its own Alp, has lured many celebs to these parts—Audrey Hepburn, Sophia Loren, Sean Connery, and Shirley MacLaine once colonized the chalets around here. A resort shuttle boat as well as most Flüelen-bound boats go to the base of the Bürgenstock, where you can take a funicular to the isolated resort at the top of a ridge. Though the plateau isn't terribly high—only about 2,800 feet—it rises dramatically above the water and offers striking views of the region. Bürgenstock also can be approached by car, up a steep, sometimes dangerous road that connects Luzern and the town of Stansstad. Drive carefully: it was designed with many switchbacks to prevent Ferrari-driving playboys from speeding. For another kind of adrenaline rush, stroll along the cliff walk and take Europe's highest outdoor elevator to the resort's 3,658-foot peak. The Hammetschwand Lift is built into the side of the cliff and leads to hiking trails and an informal restaurant with stunning views.