5 Incredible Rail Experiences in Switzerland You Probably Didn't Know Existed

By Railbookers Friday, January 17, 2020 Read time: 2 minutes

Train travel in Switzerland is an incredible experience. This country is home to some of the most scenic train journeys in the world, including the Glacier and Bernina Express! But did you know you can also enjoy the majestic beauty and diversity of Switzerland by taking these lesser known trains?

1. Lauterbrunnen–Mürren Mountain Railway

The Lauterbrunnen-Mürren Rail and Cableway links Lauterbrunnen with the resort of Mürren. An aerial cable way travels from Lauterbrunnen to the Grütschalp summit station, where passengers change to the narrow-gauge railway to reach the Winteregg Restaurant and Mürren. To reach Mürren from Lauterbrunnen, take the aerial cable car across the street from the Lauterbrunnen train station.Then, connect to the cogwheel rail from Grütschalp, which runs along the cliff and offers magnificent views. The whole journey takes about 30 minutes and drops you off at the Mürren rail station, at the opposite end of town from the cable car stop and a short walk away. There are departures every 15 to 30 minutes.

2. Harder Kulm

Harder Kulm is known as the top of Interlaken. The Harder Railway valley station is just a short walk from the Interlaken-Ost railway station. There, you'll board a modern glass roofed funicular to Harder Kulm. Travel time from the valley station is approximately 10 minutes. From the viewing platform at the top of harder Kulm, you can gaze out over Lake Brienz and Lake Thun or admire the incredible views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. The Harder Kulm Panorama Restaurant, which looks like a castle, is a great place to relax and take in the alpine scenery while enjoying delicious Swiss cuisine on the outdoor terrace. Walk across Two Lakes Bridge for an unforgettable experience overlooking Interlaken.

3. Wengernalp Railway

The Wengernalp Railway connects the Swiss towns of Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Grindelwald with Kleine Scheidegg. It's the longest cog railway in the world, and the most traveled section of the route is between Lauterbrunnen and Wengen.

4. Schynige Platte Railway

The historic Schynige Platte Railway travels from Wilderswil across the Breitlauenen Alp to Schynige Platte. During your journey to the summit station, you'll be treated to incredible views of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz as well as views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Once at the top, enjoy some unparalleled views of Switzerland.

5. Bernese Oberland Railway

The Bernese Oberland Railway opens up the Lütschinen valleys and, with its blue-yellow trains, connects Interlaken Ost with Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen.