September 25, 2016 (Zürich, Switzerland)
On this brisk, cool day, Grant had the idea to take a sunset cruise across Lake Zürich; so we purchased our tickets at noon for that evening. Because the boat that traverses the lake is also used for commuting, the price was pretty reasonable. And being that it’s transportation in Switzerland, it was quite luxurious and comfortable.
How Switzerland manages to keep its trains, trams, busses, and boats clean is a mystery to me but I have a theory… one that includes elves coming out and cleaning every night at midnight, and reupholstering the seats and carpeting twice a month. Think Harry Potter-esque house elves but for transportation.
We boarded at 5:30 and realized we were lucky to have chosen this day, as this was the last week that the sunset cruise was running for the season. The boat zig-zags its way to the other side of the lake, to a town called Rapperswil. Then it zig-zags its way back, stopping at the various piers that dot the coastline, picking up and dropping passengers off. The total time to Rapperswil and back is about 4 and a half hours, and provides a value-packed leisurely cruise.
On this particular evening, the wind was blowing a cool breeze across the lake and provided a chilly autumn atmosphere. Despite being bundled up in several layers, we were still cold, but Grant and I couldn’t help sitting at the very front of the boat where we could enjoy a panoramic view of the lake and be close to the water. I think we were missing being out on a boat as our last experience had been on a catamaran, sailing back and forth between Waikiki and Diamond Head.
The sunset was beautiful and cast an orange and crimson lace on the rippling lake surface. It was nice to enjoy with a glass of wine; Grant with his beer.
The sun finally set, and the temperature dropped about 10 degrees, that was when we went inside and got seated in the onboard restaurant. It was noticeably less crowded as the reserved dinner guests had all finished their dinners. I ordered a delicious meatloaf with mashed potatoes smothered in a red wine gravy. The sultry taste of the meatloaf and smooth, garlicky mashed potatoes went well with the zesty tartness of the gravy. Grant ordered fried Zürich Lake-caught fish with fried potato wedges.
By the time we got to Rapperswil, it was dark but the lights that dotted the hill from the town illuminated the nooks of the valley well. We’ve heard this town is also worth exploring. Rapperswil is a quaint little town located on the opposite side of Lake Zürich. It includes a castle that draws visitors year round. We decided that we would come back and explore it the next time we visit Switzerland.
The ride back was nice and leisurely. We found a warmer spot that was covered but still outdoors at the back of the boat. No matter how cold it was, Grant and I couldn’t help being outside. The night view was just as enchanting. We passed by a Lindt chocolate factory and as we approached the pier, Grossmünster Church was lit up like a lighthouse on a moonless night.
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