Lucerne, Lake of

Lucerne, Lake of, Ger. Vierwaldstätter See, irregular-shaped lake, 44 sq mi (114 sq km), central Switzerland. It has a maximum depth of c.700 ft (210 m). The lake is fed and drained by the Reuss River. Surrounded by mountains, the Lake of Lucerne is noted for its scenic beauty; many resort towns are along its shores. Lucerne (Ger. Luzern), the principal lakeside city, is located at its northern outlet. The three arms of the Lake of Lucerne are called the Lake of Küssnacht (northern arm), the Lake of Alpnacht (southwestern), and the Lake of Uri (southeastern).