Situated high above the serene waters of Lake Lucerne, the unique Art Deco Hotel Montana also rises above other hotels in Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s most scenic cities. Of course, the hotel’s lofty position lends itself to a splendid panorama stretching from the city centre far into the southern area of the lake, where the alpine scenery is taken to another level of stunning beauty.
The realisation that the hotel offers something different from its competitors is known immediately upon arrival at the top or bottom of its hillside location. Guests descend a grand staircase from the upper streetside entrance to the Reception area. The hotel maintains a private funicular from the lower street level to reach the Reception area. It is the shortest funicular railway globally, and guests reach the hotel in only one minute. Also on this ground floor are the Louis Bar and the Scala Restaurant. Scala indeed scales the heights of excellence thanks to the expertise of chef Johan Breedijk, the superb outlook, and the beautiful dining room itself.
As expected in such an exceptional establishment, the menu is full of tempting options that vary with the season, enjoyed either in the dining room or on the terrace to enjoy the views al fresco. In the northern summer, Art Deco Hotel Montana brings the Mediterranean to the Alps and creates a Beach Club with palm trees, sand, umbrellas, and beverages to evoke a feeling of being on the coast of a sea rather than a lake. In winter, it is best to enjoy the ambience of the historical Louis Bar and sample its priceless collection of Scottish whisky while listening to the live music entertainment that sometimes accompanies it.
Many of Switzerland’s top hotels have long maintained the traditional, Old World approach to their operations. While that aspect of professional service is certainly appreciated, the 21st-century preference for more modern interiors has become known in several properties nationwide. These include Art Deco Hotel Montana, where recently renovated rooms and suites are fresh and airy in decor, with light wood and soothing colours emphasising a sense of openness enhanced by the wide-open views and sunlight streaming in through the French doors leading to wrought-iron balconies. One of the more admirable characteristics of grand hotels that are best kept as original is the ample width of the corridors and natural light reaching them; the hallways of Art Deco Hotel Montana are incredibly generous in these respects.
Despite seemingly being removed from the city high in its elevated position, Art Deco Hotel Montana is close to some of Lucerne’s most impressive experiences. It is easy to spend an entire day at the Swiss Museum Of Transport, an enormous complex encompassing several buildings showcasing various modes of transport, from railways and automobiles to aeroplanes and spacecraft. Also on the grounds is the little-known Hans Erni Museum, where the impressive works of this uncelebrated Swiss artist are well worth seeing.
The Swiss Museum Of Transport is a convenient stop on the Lake Lucerne Navigation Company, SGV route, making excursions on the lake very easy, with trips on the historical paddle steamers especially appealing. Whether for transport from A to B, a day out on the water, or a special candlelight dinner cruise, SGV will add a lasting memory for any visitor to this beautiful part of a beautiful country.
Written by: Robert La Bua – Global Traveller Deluxe