High up in the Bernese Highlands of Switzerland, stretched
between sun-drenched Alpine meadows or snow-capped peaks depending
on the season, the Schynige Platte Railway winds its way from the
town of Wilderswil to the Schynige Platte Alpine ridge. Along the
way, a jaw-dropping spectacle of ancient mountains reveals itself,
indulging passengers in an Alpine wonderland of supreme beauty. The
route also features marvellous views of the Eiger, the Mönch and
the Jungfrau mountains.
We take an enthralling journey on the Schynige Platte Railway,
which runs for four-and-a-half miles to the summit of Schynige
Platte, some 6,463ft above sea level. The railway is noted for
using many of its original electric locomotives and restored period
carriages, creating a nostalgic 'Belle Epoque' feel for the
experience.
The narrow-gauge line begins in the pretty town of Wilderswil.
On leaving the town, the train makes use of the cogwheel system to
navigate the steep incline of the track. To negotiate the 4,547ft
climb, the railway takes a route over the Breitlaünen Mountain.
Running up a winding ledge, the line is sheltered from some of the
most extreme weather that can be seen at this altitude.
Nevertheless, there is still an amazing panorama from the train;
along this stretch of the line there is a clear view of Lake Thun
and the towns and villages clustered around it, as well as the
other mountains rising away from the waters.
The Schynige Platte Railway then
continues across the mountain and through a stretch of woodland,
covered with a dense collection of pine trees. Eventually, after
curving right around its southern face, the train reaches the peak
of the Schynige Platte, which is characterised not only by its
superb vistas but also for its botanical garden at the summit.
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