photo: square(tea) / Flickr/Flam Railway; Myrdal station, Oslo, Norway
Winter offers nature’s finest wonders, and what better way to enjoy them than from the cozy warmth of a train? Here are the top five winter train routes that promise breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
Austria: The Magnificent Semmeringbahn
The pride of Austrian railways, Semmeringbahn, is the world’s first mountain railway with a standard gauge (1,435 mm) and holds the distinction of being Europe’s first operational mountain railway. Spanning 41.7 kilometers, the route connects Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag, offering breathtaking views of wild mountain landscapes.
Travelers can admire 14 tunnels, 16 viaducts (some double-tiered), 11 iron bridges, and 118 stone bridges, all framed by dramatic alpine scenery. The railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was constructed between 1848 and 1854 under the direction of Carl von Gheta. Nearly 20,000 workers, including many women, participated in its construction.
The first train journeyed along the tracks in 1853, with the line officially opening in May 1854. Today, Semmeringbahn is a functional masterpiece and an unmissable treat for nature lovers and railway enthusiasts.
Switzerland: The Legendary Bernina Express
The Bernina Express is a winter favorite for its panoramic views of the snow-covered Alps. Running between Chur in Switzerland and Tirano in Italy, this UNESCO-listed route spans 144 kilometers, passing through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges.
The railway combines two segments: the Albula Line, featuring engineering wonders like the Landwasser Viaduct, and the Bernina Line, which crosses the dramatic Bernina Pass. Construction spanned from 1898 to 1910, with seamless integration of natural beauty and human ingenuity.
The train’s panoramic windows enhance the journey, offering unrivaled views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and dense forests. If you’re seeking a luxurious yet scenic winter escape, the Bernina Express is the perfect choice.
Scotland: The Hogwarts Express and West Highland Line
Known to Harry Potter fans as the Hogwarts Express, the West Highland Line takes you through Scotland’s dramatic Highlands. The journey begins near Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest peak, and continues past Loch Morar, Britain’s deepest freshwater lake, and other stunning landmarks.
The route’s crown jewel is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a concrete railway bridge with 21 arches, measuring 380 meters in length and standing 30 meters tall. Built in 1898, it has become an iconic feature of the Scottish landscape.
Travelers can choose the Jacobite Steam Train, which runs seasonally, recreating the charm of a bygone era. Whether you’re a Potterhead or a nature lover, this 66-kilometer journey offers something magical.
Slovenia: Step Back in Time on the Bohinj Railway
The Bohinj Railway is a historical treasure connecting Jesenice in Slovenia to Trieste in Italy. Built in 1900 to link Central Europe with the Austro-Hungarian port of Trieste, the route features 28 tunnels and over 65 bridges, including the Solkan Bridge, home to the world’s longest stone arch.
During World War I, the railway served as a vital supply route for troops along the Soča Front. Today, it operates as a seasonal tourist attraction, with just 19 journeys annually. Travelers can enjoy views of Lake Bled, known for its picturesque island church, as well as a dining car experience, combining luxury with nostalgia.
Read more
Experience a nostalgic journey through Slovenia’s breathtaking Alps aboard the Bohinj Railway. From historic tunnels to stunning vistas, this train…
Norway: The Steep Challenge of the Flåm Railway
The Flåm Railway is a marvel of engineering, drawing half a million visitors annually. Spanning 20 kilometers, the line climbs 865 meters from Flåm to Myrdal, making it one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world, with a gradient of 55‰.
Built between 1923 and 1940, the railway includes 20 tunnels and offers 10 stops along the way. In summer, passengers can enjoy a special stop at Kjosfossen Waterfall, complete with a performance by a “waterfall fairy” who dances to music on a rock below.
This journey promises unforgettable views of Norway’s dramatic landscapes, making it a must for adventurous travelers.
Why Winter Train Journeys?
Train travel in winter offers unmatched comfort, stunning views, and a sustainable way to explore. From the engineering marvels of Switzerland to the magical Highlands of Scotland, these routes guarantee memories that will last a lifetime.
Source: RAILTARGET; zajimavaevropa.cz; Lonely Planet; cysnews.cz