Today was our first full day in Switzerland and, despite all of the forecasts I'd looked at, it turned out to be a beautiful day and perfect for an outing. So we took a boat trip, then a ride up a cog wheel train, and found ourselves at the top of Mt. Rigi (1798m, 5899'). The train was pretty interesting. At times it was so steep that the folks sitting on the uphill side (me) had to brace themselves to keep from sliding out of their (my) seat.

The peak was a different world from the warm lake cruise we had enjoyed. Strong winds and chilly temps (at least to us Floridians) made it … invigorating. But the views, oh, the views. Wow.

We walked about the top and then hiked a few miles down the mountain, stopping for lunch and a beer on the way. When you consider that a flight of stairs is normally a significant altitude change for us, this walk was a warm up for things to come. It was wonderful.

The path was crowded with young and old. Extremely well maintained, there were many benches to enjoy the views, fireplaces pre-stocked with wood to cook your lunch, and vistas around every corner. It was great and our legs are feeling every foot of it. Totally worth it. We earned our beer/wine tonight!

The photos below are just a meager sample of what I shot today. Damn, we're having fun.

Mt. Rigi, Switzerland, 5/22/16

Mt. Rigi, Switzerland, 5/22/16

Mt. Rigi, Switzerland, 5/22/16

Lunch was tasty, and what a view!

Mt. Rigi, Switzerland, 5/22/16

Mt. Rigi, Switzerland, 5/22/16

Some people are more interested in taking selfies than where they are. I can't tell you how many times we saw this kind of behavior. To each their own, I suppose.

All ages were up there and on the trails, from younger than this fellow to significantly older than us. The really tiny hiking boots we saw are awfully cute.

Mt. Rigi, Switzerland, 5/22/16

These benches were common and a nice place to catch some alpine rays.