The local poet Isabella Kaiser once described Beckenried as "the prettiest village on the prettiest lake". In spite of a hive of building activity in recent years Beckenried has still been able to retain much of its rural character. With the new and modern layout of the village centre in 2000, a large amount of free space has been created near the landing-stage.   The hotel is situated on Emmetterstrasse and offers unobstructed views of the lake and mountains. If you want to start the day in style or simply refresh yourself after a hike, you have the possibility of enjoying a swim in the lake directly in front of the hotel.         If you are travelling southbound or northbound on the A2, Beckenried is 25 km from Luzern and the ideal place to take a break from driving. The village boasts 2,800 inhabitants. It is a picturesque setting 440 m above sea level on the banks of the clear waters of Lake Luzern and at the foot of the Klewenalp; in other words, nestling between lake and mountains. The name Beckenried was often the topic of discussion. Historically, it was first mentioned in 1150. In the centuries to follow, Beckenried was spelt in no less than 20 different ways. Its name comprises 2 parts. The first part can probably be traced back to a settler name "Beggo", the second part can be derived from „gerodet“ or „gereutet“ (to clear) or from „ried“ (a marsh). In 1323, representatives from the three “forest cantons” decided to swear an oath of allegiance to the German king. The deeds show that there was a chapel as far back as 1323 consecrated in the name of King Henry and the middle of primal Switzerland.           Lake Luzern, with its many bays and moods represents the heart of Switzerland. Almost completely surrounded by mountains it marks not only the geographic centre but also the birthplace of the federation. The world’s oldest democracy came into being on its shores. If you want to see Central Switzerland at its best just board a boat and let the elementary forces of nature play their part.