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DISCOVER THE MOST SCENIC TRAIN THROUGH THE SWISS ALPS

Topic Swiss Rail Holidays Through The Alps
Read Time 7 Minutes
Author Paul Tavener, Owner Marvellous Escapes

EXPLORING THE SWISS ALPS BY RAIL

When people think of the most beautiful sights to see in Switzerland, it’s not uncommon to instantly conjure up images of the Swiss Alps. With their snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and charming alpine villages, the mountainous landscapes of Switzerland are truly a sight to behold. 

There is no better way to witness this breathtaking wonder than from your designated seat onboard one of Switzerland’s most picturesque trains. In this blog, we’ll dive into what is the best train through the Swiss Alps, what the route covers and how you can book your own Swiss Alps train tour.

The Glacier Express train through Swiss Alps

LOOKING FOR A SCENIC TRAIN THROUGH THE SWISS ALPS? UNVEILING THE GLACIER EXPRESS

 

Switzerland is home to a variety of scenic train journeys that offer outstanding views outside of their luxurious interiors. From open countryside landscapes to snowy mountain top peaks, there is always something to soak in onboard a rail holiday in Switzerland

 

However, if you’re seeking the quintessential Swiss Alps experience, look no further than a Glacier Express rail holiday. This fantastic train is known as the slowest express rail line in the world and takes around eight hours to complete; perfect for passengers looking to relax and enjoy the journey along the way. Ultimately, giving you a proper chance to truly drink in every detail of the awe-inspiring landscape outside of your panoramic window.

 

The Glacier Express train goes through the Swiss Alps, transporting you between two of Switzerland’s famous mountain resorts, Zermatt and St. Moritz. The route will see you winding around the rugged mountainous terrain, giving you full unfiltered access to the Swiss Alps surrounding you on either side. 

Switzerland train through Alps - The Glacier Express

WHAT YOU'LL SEE ON THIS SWITZERLAND TRAIN THROUGH THE ALPS

The Glacier Express route is a visual feast, offering a variety of landscapes that change dramatically throughout the journey. Some of the highlights you can expect to see onboard this train through the Swiss Alps include:

ZERMATT

This is where you’ll first board your Swiss train through the Alps. Starting at the car-free village of Zermatt, you’ll want to spend some time here before departing to witness its spectacular ski resort, full of picturesque chalets and views of the iconic Matterhorn mountain. Even before the train departs, the sight of this pyramid-shaped mountain sets the tone for the adventure ahead, giving you a sneak peek of what you can expect!

Overhead shot of the snowy town of Zermatt with the iconic Matterhorn mountain in the background

THE RHINE GORGE

Dubbed the Grand Canyon of Switzerland, the Rhine Gorge is a stunning natural wonder. The Glacier Express route passes through this deep ravine, offering passengers jaw-dropping views of sheer cliffs and the turquoise waters of the Rhine River below.

OBERALP PASS

This is the highest point of the route, standing at 2,033 metres above sea level. This section of the journey is best during the colder months, offering views of untouched snow-covered peaks and frozen lakes.

LANDWASSER VIADUCT

This engineering marvel is perhaps the most iconic structure along The Glacier Express route. Prepare to have your breath taken away as your train through the Swiss Alps glides across this curved viaduct, which soars 65 metres above the Landwasser River, before disappearing into a tunnel carved into the mountainside.

The Glacier Express going over the Landwasser Viaduct

ST. MORITZ

Finally, this Switzerland train through the Alps concludes its journey in the glamorous resort town of St. Moritz. This town is synonymous with luxury and world-class skiing but also offers incredible views of Switzerland’s natural landscape.  Surrounded by sparkling lakes and towering peaks, it’s a fitting end to an unforgettable journey.

Throughout your journey on this train through the Swiss Alps, you’ll venture across 291 bridges and enter over 90 tunnels, admiring unobstructed alpine views from panoramic, overhead windows. But what makes the Glacier Express train so spectacular is how there isn’t a single part of the rail tour that isn’t worth seeing.

Snow over the town of St. Moritz

HOW TO BOOK YOUR PLACE ON THE GLACIER EXPRESS

The Glacier Express is more than just a train ride - it's an experience taking you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world whilst you lap up the luxuries which lie within its interiors. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or embarking on your first alpine adventure, this Swiss rail journey offers a perfect blend of comfort, beauty, and excitement. 

The Glacier Express runs on a limited schedule throughout the year. It departs three times during the warmer months between May to October. Then in the winter from December, there is only one train per day. To ensure you don’t miss out on the opportunity to ride this exclusive Switzerland train through the Alps, speak with our rail experts today to plan the perfect rail holiday. 

Want to upgrade your rail holiday for a special occasion? Book a place on The Glacier Express Excellence Class which grants you exclusive access to the Glacier Bar and an upgraded  5-course dining experience including wine accompaniment, coffee & digestif with chocolates, and tea time in the afternoon with treats. Soft drinks, fruit juices, coffee and champagne are also available.

Glacier Express Excellence Class

Secure your place on The Glacier Express today and see the best parts of Switzerland all from the comfort of your seat! 

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