Switzerland is home to some of the most impressive mountain railways in the world. Built across challenging alpine terrain, these railways are engineering marvels that seamlessly blend innovation with breathtaking scenery. From cogwheel trains climbing near-vertical slopes to scenic routes winding through picturesque valleys, Switzerland’s mountain railways offer travelers a chance to experience the country’s stunning landscapes in the most memorable way.
Here’s a look at the most spectacular Swiss mountain railways that combine history, engineering, and panoramic beauty.
1. Jungfraubahn – The Top of Europe
Route: Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch
Elevation: 3,454 meters (11,332 feet)
Opened: 1912
The Jungfraubahn is one of Switzerland’s most famous railways, leading to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. The train passes through a tunnel carved inside the Eiger and Mönch mountains, offering views from observation windows before emerging at the summit.
Engineering Feats:
- The railway took 16 years to construct, overcoming extreme alpine conditions.
- 7 kilometers of the route runs through tunnels inside the Eiger and Mönch.
- Electric cogwheel technology allows the train to climb steep gradients safely.
Stunning Views:
- Panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps.
- Spectacular vistas from the Sphinx Observatory at the summit.
The Jungfraujoch experience is a must for visitors, offering ice caves, a viewing platform, and a chance to walk on a glacier.
2. Gornergrat Bahn – Unmatched Matterhorn Views
Route: Zermatt to Gornergrat
Elevation: 3,089 meters (10,135 feet)
Opened: 1898
The Gornergrat Bahn is Europe’s highest open-air cogwheel railway, offering unparalleled views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
Engineering Feats:
- The first fully electrified cog railway in Switzerland.
- A continuous gradient climb of up to 20%.
- Uses regenerative braking to generate electricity on the descent.
Stunning Views:
- A 360-degree view of 29 peaks over 4,000 meters, including the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and Weisshorn.
- The Gorner Glacier, one of Switzerland’s largest.
At the summit, visitors can explore an observatory, hiking trails, and a luxury mountain hotel.
3. Pilatus Railway – The World’s Steepest Cogwheel Train
Route: Alpnachstad to Pilatus Kulm
Elevation: 2,128 meters (6,982 feet)
Gradient: 48% (steepest in the world)
Opened: 1889
The Pilatus Railway is an incredible feat of engineering, climbing one of the steepest gradients of any railway worldwide.
Engineering Feats:
- Uses a unique rack-and-pinion system designed specifically for steep inclines.
- Originally steam-powered, now operates with eco-friendly electric power.
- The train overcomes a height difference of 1,635 meters in just 30 minutes.
Stunning Views:
- Sweeping views over Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Plateau.
- A panoramic terrace at the summit with hiking and dining options.
Visitors can combine the Golden Round Trip, taking a boat on Lake Lucerne, the cogwheel train up, and a cable car back down.
4. Glacier Express – The World’s Slowest Express Train
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Distance: 291 kilometers (181 miles)
Opened: 1930
The Glacier Express is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, connecting two of Switzerland’s most famous alpine resorts. Despite being called an “express,” the journey takes nearly eight hours to complete.
Engineering Feats:
- Crosses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels through the Alps.
- Features the Landwasser Viaduct, a six-arch bridge that dramatically curves into a tunnel.
- Uses specially designed panoramic windows for uninterrupted views.
Stunning Views:
- The Rhine Gorge, often called the “Grand Canyon of Switzerland.”
- Snow-covered peaks, deep valleys, and picturesque villages.
The Glacier Express offers a luxury experience with first-class service and fine dining onboard.
5. Bernina Express – A UNESCO Heritage Railway
Route: Chur to Tirano (Italy)
Elevation: 2,253 meters (7,392 feet) at Ospizio Bernina
Opened: 1910
The Bernina Express is one of the few railways that crosses the Alps without a cogwheel system, relying solely on skillful track design. It is also part of the Rhaetian Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Engineering Feats:
- Features the spectacular Brusio Spiral Viaduct, a circular bridge designed to handle steep gradients.
- No rack-and-pinion system—entirely relies on carefully engineered gradients.
- The highest railway in Europe running without cogwheels.
Stunning Views:
- Glaciers, alpine lakes, and dramatic mountain landscapes.
- The transition from snowy peaks to the warm vineyards of Italy.
The Bernina Express is unique in that it connects Switzerland’s high mountains with the Mediterranean climate of Tirano, Italy.
6. Schynige Platte Railway – A Nostalgic Ride
Route: Wilderswil to Schynige Platte
Elevation: 1,967 meters (6,453 feet)
Opened: 1893
The Schynige Platte Railway is a historic cogwheel train that transports visitors into an alpine paradise. The railway still operates vintage wooden carriages and steam locomotives, offering an old-world travel experience.
Engineering Feats:
- Over 125 years old, using the original rolling stock.
- A steep climb with panoramic switchbacks.
- No modern automation—trains are manually operated for an authentic historic feel.
Stunning Views:
- Spectacular views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
- Alpine gardens featuring over 600 plant species.
This railway is a perfect choice for nature lovers and those seeking a step back in time.
Conclusion
Switzerland’s mountain railways are a marvel of engineering and a gateway to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. Whether climbing near-vertical slopes, crossing deep gorges, or winding through scenic valleys, these trains offer an unforgettable way to explore the Alps.
From the world-famous Jungfraubahn to the nostalgic Schynige Platte Railway, each journey offers a unique perspective on Switzerland’s natural beauty and technological ingenuity. No visit to Switzerland is complete without experiencing at least one of these incredible railways.
