Zug is the smallest of the big Swiss business cities, and it carries its wealth lightly. It sits on the northeast corner of Lake Zug, with a compact old town of narrow lanes, a medieval clock tower called the Zytturm with its colourful roof, and a lakeside promenade where swans and joggers share the space. Low taxes have drawn companies and a large share of the world's cryptocurrency firms, so the town is nicknamed Crypto Valley, though you would not know it from the pastel houses and the old town gate.
The food is the draw. Zug is the home of Zuger Kirschtorte, a layered cake of almond meringue, sponge soaked in cherry liqueur and buttercream. You will see it in bakery windows across town, and a slice with coffee is a rite of passage. The lake provides fish, including the local red char, and restaurants along the water serve it fried or poached. For something more hearty, the Swiss classics of rösti, sausage and cheese are on most menus.
As a finish option, the town works well. After a day of hills, the flat lakeside is calm, and you can park the bike near the harbour and walk. In the evening, light hits the water and the mountains behind, with the Rigi and Pilatus standing in the distance, and the old town starts to fill with people leaving work. There are pubs and wine bars, and the cafés spill outdoors on mild nights.
Fuel is no issue in a town of twenty-three thousand, with stations on the main roads and in neighbouring Baar. Parking for motorcycles is available near the lake, though it is limited at peak times, so look for the marked bays and avoid pavements. Public transport is excellent, and if you are heading home by train, the station is close to the old town.
If the weather is warm, the lake invites a swim, and there are public bathing places along the shore. The water is clean, and in summer the town is lively until late. Take a moment on the promenade before you load up, because Zug is one of those places where the end of a ride feels like a small ceremony. Sunset is the best time, with the water turning from blue to pink.