Hidden Gems: The Most Scenic Train Rides in Switzerland You Didn’t Know About

The Voralpen Express: The Scenic Bridge to Swiss Beauty

Overview:

Connecting the cities of St. Gallen and Lucerne, the Voralpen Express traverses the charming pre-Alpine region of Switzerland. This less-traveled route is a scenic wonderland, showcasing a blend of rolling hills, quaint villages, and serene lakes.

Journey Highlights:

• St. Gallen’s Old Town: The journey begins in St. Gallen, where the old town’s UNESCO World Heritage architecture sets a picturesque stage. As the train departs, passengers are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Lake Zurich: The train skirts along the edge of Lake Zurich, offering glimpses of the water’s serene surface, which reflects the surrounding peaks.
• Alpine Meadows and Villages: The route winds through lush meadows and tiny hamlets, providing a quintessential Swiss experience. Small towns like Rapperswil and Einsiedeln are visible from the train, each with their own historical charm.

Travel Tips:

• Best Time to Go: Spring and summer months offer the most vibrant landscapes with blooming flowers and lush green fields.
• Travel Pass: Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel across multiple routes and convenience.

The Bernina Express: Beyond the Popular Route

Overview:

While the Bernina Express is widely celebrated for its stunning high-altitude journey through the Alps, a lesser-known segment of this route—between Poschiavo and Tirano—offers a more intimate experience of the region’s beauty.

Journey Highlights:

• Poschiavo: This picturesque town is nestled in a valley and serves as a gateway to the less-frequented part of the Bernina Express. The area is known for its Italianate architecture and beautiful gardens.
• Val Poschiavo: As the train departs Poschiavo, it travels through Val Poschiavo, a valley that boasts beautiful scenery and Italian-influenced culture. The train offers breathtaking views of the rugged landscapes and lush greenery.
• Maloja Pass: The segment traverses the Maloja Pass, where you can witness the dramatic transition from the alpine peaks to the more temperate valleys below.

Travel Tips:

• Time of Year: The autumn season provides a stunning display of foliage, while summer offers lush greenery and clear views.
• Reservations: Seats on the Bernina Express can be booked in advance, particularly if you wish to experience this less-traveled segment.

The GoldenPass Line: A Symphony of Swiss Scenery

Overview:

The GoldenPass Line connects the cities of Lucerne and Montreux and is celebrated for its spectacular transitions through different Swiss landscapes. Beyond the famous route, exploring the stretches from Interlaken to Zweisimmen provides additional scenic rewards.

Journey Highlights:

• Lake Brienz: Starting from Interlaken, the train hugs the shores of Lake Brienz, offering magnificent views of the turquoise water against the backdrop of the towering Alps.
• Simmental Valley: As the train approaches Zweisimmen, the scenery transforms into the picturesque Simmental Valley. This area is characterized by its rolling meadows and traditional Swiss farms, presenting a serene and pastoral landscape.
• Rural Switzerland: The segment from Zweisimmen to Montreux traverses rural Switzerland, with its charming villages and pastoral views. The journey concludes in Montreux, where the Riviera of Lake Geneva provides a stunning contrast to the alpine landscapes.

Travel Tips:

• Seasonal Travel: The GoldenPass Line is captivating year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly enchanting views.
• Photography: The panoramic windows on the trains are ideal for capturing the stunning scenery.

The RhB Regional Lines: Off the Beaten Path

Overview:

The RhB (Rhätische Bahn) network covers numerous regional lines that venture into Switzerland’s more remote areas, each offering unique and captivating scenery. While the Bernina and Glacier Express are well-known, the regional lines, such as the Engadine and Arosa lines, offer equally stunning vistas.

Journey Highlights:

• Engadine Line: This line runs from Landquart to Scuol-Tarasp, passing through the Engadine Valley. The journey showcases alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and traditional Engadine houses.
• Arosa Line: Starting from Chur, the Arosa Line ascends into the Alps, offering dramatic views of deep valleys and rugged peaks. The journey through the lush Rhine Gorge, often referred to as the “Swiss Grand Canyon,” is particularly spectacular.
• Albulapass Line: Known for its architectural marvels, such as the Landwasser Viaduct, the Albulapass Line offers stunning views of the rugged mountain landscape and historical railway structures.

Travel Tips:

• Advance Booking: Regional lines are less crowded but booking in advance can ensure you get a seat during peak travel times.
• Local Cuisine: Take the opportunity to sample local Swiss cuisine available on some of these routes.

The Sihltalbahn: Zurich’s Hidden Scenic Gem

Overview:

Often overshadowed by more famous Swiss trains, the Sihltalbahn is a local treasure that offers a charming escape from the urban hustle of Zurich. The line travels from Zurich to Uetliberg, providing a scenic journey through the lush landscapes of the Sihltal Valley.

Journey Highlights:

• Zurich’s Green Belt: The train initially travels through Zurich’s green belt, showcasing the city’s parklands and suburban areas before venturing into more rural settings.
• Sihltal Valley: The Sihltalbahn winds through the verdant Sihltal Valley, where you can observe charming Swiss houses, serene forests, and flowing rivers.
• Uetliberg Peak: The journey culminates at Uetliberg, where panoramic views of Zurich and the surrounding landscape are available from the peak. It’s an ideal spot for a scenic hike or a relaxing picnic.

Travel Tips:

• Local Experience: This route is ideal for experiencing the local Swiss way of life and enjoying a quieter, more intimate train journey.
• Outdoor Activities: Consider combining the train journey with hiking or biking in the Uetliberg area.

In exploring these lesser-known train rides in Switzerland, you uncover a treasure trove of scenic experiences that offer a unique perspective of the Swiss landscape. From rolling meadows and serene lakes to dramatic alpine vistas, these routes promise to captivate your senses and provide memories that will last a lifetime. So, next time you plan a Swiss getaway, consider venturing beyond the well-trodden paths and embark on one of these hidden gems.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have any health concerns or are experiencing symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or clinic, for proper diagnosis and treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.