Charm since 1873

The building shone with new splendor after a late Classicist renovation, crowned by an added second full story and a turret. The newly constructed balconies offered breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne and the majestic mountains, inviting guests to dream and linger. Eight years later, the hotel was renamed Hotel Terminus.

Where the open garden hall once stood, the architect and pioneer of modern construction, Arnold Berger (1882–1956), built the Rondel. With its splendid panoramic windows, this semi-circular extension became the first dance hall on Lake Lucerne. The ceiling lamp, designed by the designer Max Häfeli, and the large mural by the Lucerne artist Eduard Renggli added extra charm to the Rondel. From above, it now served as a terrace for the guests on the first floor.

To finance the transition from steam locomotives to electric trains, the Rigi Railways sold the hotel to the Fridolin Fassbind family. Under the new name, Hotel Terrasse am See, it enchanted its guests. During Fridolin Fassbind's time, a wooden walkway was constructed beneath the Rondel, and several renovations and restorations were carried out.

Pia Nussbaumer and Roland Scherrer managed the hotel with full dedication for 20 years, a commitment reflected in numerous subtle renovations. From the redesign of the rooms by architect Vincenz Erni to the uncovering of the terrazzo floor, the then-hobby hotel was continuously infused with new charm. Under their leadership, the hotel returned to its roots in 2008 and was accepted as a member of Swiss Historic Hotels.

Guided by vision, the hotel is handed over to the Edith Maryon Foundation and continues under the management of Historic Hotels AG on behalf of the "Friends of Swiss Historic Hotels." The next step involves the renovation of the Rondel to preserve it for future generations. This aims to restore the elegant dance hall as the centerpiece of convivial evenings, where guests can experience the magic of Lake Lucerne under the starry sky and candlelight. In this way, the hotel blends its rich history with a bright outlook for the future.