Mount Pilatus scenery
Photo: Mount Pilatus scenery / iStock/Michal Stipek

Hotel Pilatus Kulm, Lucerne, Switzerland

Hotel Pilatus Kulm is pretty unique. It was built in 1890 (and renovated in 2010) at an altitude of 6,995 feet atop Mt. Pilatus; it is reachable via the world’s steepest cogwheel railway and offers incredible, panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. Visit during the shoulder season (April or early November) and rates for a double room with a view can be yours for about $260/night; prices rise to about $390/night from May to October. However, those rates are per person, but it includes the ride up and back, a welcome cocktail, an amazing four-course dinner, a breakfast buffet, and all taxes. Believe us, it’s money well spent.