Switzerland

We headed out of Italy to enter into one of the most beautiful countries: Switzerland. I was so pleasantly surprised with our lunch break this day. We stopped at the amazing town of Lugano. This was a little lake-shore town that was just delightful.
We walked along the shore and soaked in every angle of the beautiful views. We decided on some exquisite cuisine at McDonald's (a common occurrence on our trip), but ate quickly so we could get back to our walk along the lake. It was some holiday while we were there and they were holding a marathon. We happen to be quite partial to marathons giving the nature of the athletes in our family, and it just seemed to make the town a bit more exciting.
Our hour lunch stop ended sadly as we drove away from quite possibly the site of a future vacation home (I can dream right?).

Luzern was our new home for the next two days. We were looking forward to a two night stay to get a little more grounded and the opportunity to explore the city our way. Our first stop was the Lion Monument (which celebrates the Swiss Guards who died while protecting Marie Antoinette).
We checked into our hotel and were again grateful for a place to call home for TWO nights. Doesn't sound like much, but it was a luxury. My favorite feature of the hotel? The glass elevator that you opened the door yourself. It was so old school. Loved it.
On the docket for that evening: a resplendent lake cruise. We departed about 30 min before sunset and learned about the city from the lake.
We passed some old famous houses, Mom's future summer home (only $35 million with a hillside vineyard, indoor/outdoor pool, and perfect view of the lake), and enjoyed the sunset over the water. What a perfect way to become acquainted with Switzerland.
We called in a night and were looking forward to our leisurely morning. We opted to not go on the tour the next day and were able to make our own schedule. A morning to sleep in! It was fabulous to wake up when we wanted and just lay there. We just talked and enjoyed Switzerland right outside our window.
We set out to walk toward the town center. It was a splendid walk along the tree lined shore.
The covered bridge was the focal point of the old town center. The flower lined edges and diagnal angle made it uniqe and adorable.
We meandered around the quaint, cobble stone roads enjoying our surroundings. We fit in our shopping and were finally able to visit an H& M. I had passed up so many in cities past, but finally had the time to fully partake of it's greatness.
After our rigorous morning of shopping, it was time to sit, get a Coke Light, and get some food. We ate right on the water by the covered bridge and just took our time. I wish I could explain the difference it makes in not having a rigid schedule. We even had the luxury of heading back to the hotel for an afternoon nap. Heaven.
After our little rest we headed back out to enjoy the evening (and avoid the gross group dinner) back in the town center. We found a log on the water and had prime seating for the views and fabulous people watching (Europe has a lot to offer in that department).
Once again we ended up at our "safe" food choice: McDonald's. Luckily they install idiot proof signs that point you right where you need to go. It must be a tourist town.
We called it a night with another gelato and a relaxed walk back along the water. It was a tranquil evening with the calm of the water and quiet of the town. I think I have said this about every place, but I just fall in love with that magical something each place has to offer.