Why Swiss mountain railways are a feat of engineering

Switzerland has a worldwide reputation for its well-developed rail system. Many train rides are incredibly spectacular even though they were engineered simply for public transportation. Anyone can ride these trains and tourists are always welcome!

In addition to getting around the flatlands, the Swiss way of life includes public transport options for the mountains, too. However you slice it, it is very impressive how alpine resorts, hiking areas, and even high summits are accessible by postal bus, cable car, and mountain railway.

Mountain railways, just like their cousins running in Switzerland’s flatter areas, are integrated into the wider Swiss transport network. Some may take them for granted, but the 52 individual mountain railway lines in Switzerland deserve a special nod. Each line has a history of its own, and some are so unique to even hold a world record.

These mountain railways prove how amazing it is to travel in Switzerland

From Central Switzerland to its most southern tip, each of these Swiss mountain railways is bucket list material. Here are some fun facts about six of the most impressive destinations reachable by mountain railway:

Jungfraujoch in the Bernese Alps

Jungfraujoch is called the “Top of Europe.” No wonder, because this destination towers at 3454 meters of altitude. With its magnificent glacier landscape, it is one of the most impressive places to visit in Switzerland. The new V-Bahn cable car makes reaching the top 45 minutes faster than with the alternative. Jungfraujoch is Europe’s highest station, leading you to the Aletsch Glacier, the biggest glacier in the Alps. Anyone with a decent pair of shoes can embark on a trek across the glacier. The Mönchshütte is a high-alpine hut serving food, and it is reachable within 30 minutes from the Jungfraujoch station.

Gornergrat and the Matterhorn in Zermatt

The Gornergrat mountain railway combines two emblems of Switzerland: the Alps and chocolate. Already from the train station in Zermatt, you will get to see the majestic Matterhorn. With its distinct shape and prominent appearance on the Toblerone chocolate bar, the peak is among the world’s most famous mountains. Once the rack railway starts its climb towards the scenic Gornergrat mountain station, the Matterhorn will show itself from various angles. Sit on either side of the train for views, although the right-hand side is slightly more opportune for photographers. The Gornergrat railway holds a record as Europe’s highest open-air cogwheel railway. Once you reach the top at 3089 meters above sea level, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Gorner Glacier, the Matterhorn, and Zermatt. Soon, the Gornergrat mountain railway will be upgraded with new and energy-efficient coaches. During each descent, regenerative breaking technologies will be generating energy. Swiss destinations

Mount Pilatus in Central Switzerland

Mount Pilatus has the secret ingredient to make a visit near-magical: a legend. In the Middle ages, rumors claimed that there were dragons living on this mountain. When gazing to the top from your vantage point in Alpnachstad or Kriens, you will understand the reason for these myths: Mount Pilatus with its zig-zag shapes peaks at an altitude of 2128 meters above the sea. My recommended route is to hop on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway in Alpnachstad. Once you have walked the flower trail and have spotted an ibex, descend back to the bottom by way of a cable car. Fräkmüntegg is a popular stop along the way for families as it offers playgrounds and activities.

Mount Rigi, the Queen of Mountains

At 1798 meters of altitude, Mount Rigi is the self-proclaimed “Queen of the Mountains.” And in 2021, Mount Rigi celebrated an important milestone. The Vitznau-Rigi-Bahn mountain railway, which in 1871 was the first of its kind in the world, celebrated its 150th anniversary. For this occasion, engine #7 from 1873 was entirely restored, meanwhile turning a ride into a rare occasion to travel back in time. As part of the anniversary, Rigi Bahnen has also inaugurated six new carriages. The historic gems and modern railway coaches make a trip to Mount Rigi a joy for any train enthusiast. Mark your calendar for August 2022 as Rigi will be hosting a big festival. The organizers promise all the typical Swiss experiences: folk songs, yodelers, ‘’Schwinger’’ wrestlers, dancers, orchestras, and much more.

Monte Generoso in Ticino

The Italian-speaking part of Switzerland features fewer tall peaks. But the mountains in Ticino are noteworthy nonetheless. Monte Generoso located in Mendrisio offers sweeping views of Lake Lugano. Its steam train is the oldest in Switzerland, and there is an interesting backstory to it. During WWII, this mountain train line was nearly lost. Due to the increasing demand for iron, it was to be dismantled and sold off. In 1941, one Mr. Duttweiler saved the line by purchasing the Generoso rack railway. The founder of the Migros grocery store chain wanted the public to keep enjoying access to the panoramic terrace at the top – until this day. Meanwhile, the world-renowned architect with local roots, Mario Botta, has designed the peak’s prominent building resembling a rose. It is aptly named Fiore di Pietra, which means as much as Rock Flower.

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