Lucerne has a fascination for me. As I stand waiting to cross the road, I have the Chapel Bridge in front of me and the beautiful old historic buildings behind it on the other side of the river. The Chapel Bridge is the oldest covered timber bridge in Europe. It was built in 1333, seriously damaged by fire in 1993 but rebuilt very quickly. Interestingly, it is built diagonally across the river. There is an octagonal watchtower right next to it which later on was turned into a prison and torture chamber. I walk across the bridge and then along the riverfront where restaurants spill out across the pavement. The Musegg Wall, the old city wall, has nine towers along it. It is warm and sunny, and the walk up the hill to the wall is very pleasant. I walk up to the top of one of the towers. I can't be bothered counting the steps. It is incredibly hazy today so the view to the surrounding mountains is almost non-existent. I can barely see the outline of Mt Pilatus. Down to the old town and I lose myself in the narrow cobblestoned streets and alleyways. Lucerne is small so it is easy to walk around and there is a good mix of shops, cafes, restaurants, museums and souvenirs. I go back to the bridge and watch the white swans drifting peacefully along the river, occasionally twisting their necks to preen their feathers or lean over and peck a duck which is getting a little close!