Posted by The Bernese Oberland is known for its impressive cog railways that run amidst the stunning Swiss Alps. These railways overcome steep inclines and offer travelers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. We also include funicular railways among the cog railways in this article. While this is not technically correct, they are similar. Both techniques overcome steep inclines in mountains by rail. Here are some of the main cog railways in the Bernese Oberland:
Route: Kleine Scheidegg – Jungfraujoch
Description: Switzerland’s most famous cog railway runs from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 meters. The journey goes through the Eiger and Mönch tunnels and offers magnificent views at stops such as the Eigerwand. There is also a lot to see at the final stop. The peak of mountain tourism in Switzerland, extremely many visitors and passengers from overseas (Asia, America). The highlight of a vacation in the Bernese Oberland. From Interlaken, the trip to the Jungfraujoch is a day trip full of sights and magnificent views.
Tickets to the Jungfraujoch
Demand is high due to the limited capacity on the train, etc., so we recommend booking online in advance.
Only tickets for trains and cable car to the Jungfraujoch and back are available on this link: More info and booking
There are complete tours from Interlaken with guide, which are hardly more expensive than the tickets with the trains: More info and booking
- 2. Wengernalp Railway (WAB)
- Route: Lauterbrunnen/Grindelwald – Kleine Scheidegg
Description: This cog railway connects the valleys of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg, the starting point for the Jungfrau Railway. The route offers spectacular views of the Eiger North Face and the Lauterbrunnen Valley and passes through the famous town of Wengen - 3. Schynige Platte Railway
- Route: Wilderswil – Schynige Platte
Description: A nostalgic cog railway that has been in operation since 1893. The route runs from Wilderswil to Schynige Platte, a popular starting point for hikes, with breathtaking views of the Bernese Alps and the lakes of Interlaken. Great train tour. -
4. Brienz Rothorn Railway
- Route: Brienz – Brienzer Rothorn
Description: This steam-powered cog railway takes travelers from Brienz to the Brienzer Rothorn. The journey is a journey back in time and offers breathtaking views of Lake Brienz and the surrounding mountains. - 5. Harderbahn
- Route: Interlaken – Harder Kulm
Description: A funicular railway, often referred to as a cog railway. It runs from Interlaken to the Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s local mountain. From there you have a spectacular view of the region and the Alps. Short ride, there’s a lot going on at the top of the mountain. Directly from Interlaken to the mountain in just a few minutes.
Buy tickets for the Harderbahn online: More information and booking
6. Mürren Railway
- Route: Grütschalp – Mürren
Description: A narrow-gauge railway that also functions as a rack railway. It connects Grütschalp with the car-free village of Mürren and offers breathtaking views of the Lauterbrunnen valley and the opposite peaks of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.-
7. Niesenbahn
- Route: Mülenen – Niesen Kulm
Description: Even though it is technically a funicular, the ride up the Niesen – the “pyramid mountain” – offers an impressive, steep route with wonderful views of the Bernese Oberland and Lake Thun.
These cog railways and rail-based cable cars are not only engineering masterpieces, but also an unforgettable experience for any visitor to the Bernese Oberland. They provide access to some of the region’s most beautiful viewpoints and hiking areas. Great day trips are possible, especially from the small town of Interlaken.
As far as we know, many of the Bernese Oberland’s trains allow dogs. However, you pay about 30 euros extra to go to the Jungfraujoch, according to a comment on one website.
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- Route: Brienz – Brienzer Rothorn