Un viaje en tren por los Alpes Suizos
Introduction
The Swiss Alps are a dream destination for many travel enthusiasts. Among the many ways to explore the majestic mountains, one of the most popular is by train. The Swiss railway system is renowned for its efficiency, punctuality, and scenic routes. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the Swiss Alps, describing the breathtaking views, charming towns, and cultural treasures you can discover on a train trip.
Getting started
Before embarking on your adventure, you need to plan your itinerary. Switzerland has an extensive railway network that connects all major cities and towns, as well as remote regions. The Swiss Travel System offers a variety of passes that enable unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats. Depending on your budget and travel plans, you can choose from the following options:
- Saver Day Pass: perfect for short trips, valid for one day of travel in second class.
- Saver Flexi Pass: ideal for longer stays, valid for three, four, or eight non-consecutive days of travel in first or second class.
- Saver Day Pass for Half Fare: a great deal if you have a Half Fare Card, valid for one day of travel in first or second class.
- Saver Pass: the most comprehensive and flexible pass, valid for three to 15 consecutive days of travel in first or second class.
Once you have your pass, you can start exploring.
Zurich to St. Moritz
The journey from Zurich to St. Moritz is one of the most famous and scenic train rides in Switzerland. The train passes through the picturesque countryside, climbing steep hills and winding through valleys. One of the highlights of the journey is the passage through the Albula Tunnel, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tunnel is 5.8 miles long and was considered a masterpiece of engineering when it was built in the early 20th century.
St. Moritz is a chic resort town that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is famous for its luxury hotels, designer shops, and winter sports. The town hosted the Winter Olympics twice, in 1928 and 1948. If you visit in winter, you can enjoy skiing, ice-skating, and snowshoeing. In summer, you can go hiking, mountain biking, or boating on the nearby lakes.
St. Moritz to Zermatt
The trip from St. Moritz to Zermatt is another spectacular journey that takes you through the heart of the Swiss Alps. The train crosses the Bernina Pass, one of the highest railway routes in Europe, at an altitude of 7,391 feet. Along the way, you will see the Morteratsch Glacier, which is the largest glacier in the Bernina Range. The train also passes through the Val Poschiavo, a remote and unspoiled valley that offers stunning views of the Alps.
Zermatt is a quaint village at the foot of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the Alps. The village is car-free, which adds to its charm and tranquility. Zermatt is a mecca for alpine enthusiasts, with endless opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering. The Matterhorn Museum is a must-visit attraction, where you can learn about the history and culture of the region.
Zermatt to Interlaken
The journey from Zermatt to Interlaken is a feast for the eyes. The train passes through the Furka Pass, which offers stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. You can also take a detour to the Aletsch Glacier, which is the largest glacier in the Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Interlaken is a charming town situated between two crystal-clear lakes, Brienz and Thun. It is a popular destination for adventure seekers, with activities such as paragliding, canyoning, and bungee jumping. Interlaken is also a great base for exploring the nearby Jungfraujoch, which is the highest train station in Europe, located at an altitude of 11,333 feet.
Interlaken to Lucerne
The last leg of our journey takes us from Interlaken to Lucerne, a historic city located on the shores of Lake Lucerne. The train passes through the Brunig Pass, which is known for its scenic beauty and alpine flora. Along the way, you can admire the picturesque villages and farms that dot the landscape.
Lucerne is a cultural and artistic hub, with a rich history that dates back to medieval times. The city is famous for its wooden bridges, such as the Kapellbrücke, which is the oldest surviving truss bridge in Europe. You can also visit the Picasso Museum, the Richard Wagner Museum, or the Swiss Transport Museum, which is an interactive museum that showcases the evolution of transportation in Switzerland.
Conclusion
A train trip through the Swiss Alps is an unforgettable experience that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern comfort. With your Swiss Travel Pass, you can explore some of the most fascinating regions of Switzerland, from the chic resorts of St. Moritz and Zermatt to the historic city of Lucerne and the adventure paradise of Interlaken. Whether you are a nature lover, a sports enthusiast, or a culture buff, Switzerland has something for everyone.