SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage, Black, Carry-On 21-Inch
$80.73 (as of November 20, 2024 15:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Are you ready for the ultimate scenic train ride of a lifetime?
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Discover the Breathtaking Beauty of Switzerland
Switzerland is undoubtedly one of the most stunning countries in the world. From the towering snow-capped mountains to the vibrant blue alpine lakes, this European gem is a nature lover’s paradise. And, let’s not forget the culturally rich cities like Bern and Zurich, perfect for those who adore art, history, and architecture. But, if you’re looking for a unique way to experience the best of Switzerland, you need to hop on board the iconic Glacier Express.
What is the Glacier Express?
The Glacier Express is one of Switzerland’s most popular and luxurious scenic trains. It’s not just a mode of transportation; it’s an experience that will leave you in awe. The train takes you on a breathtaking journey through the Swiss Alps, crossing over 291 bridges and passing through 91 tunnels. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop in picturesque villages and enjoy unforgettable views as you traverse nearly 200 miles of rugged and beautiful landscape.
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A Brief History of the Glacier Express
The Glacier Express made its first journey through the Alps in 1930, taking 70 passengers on an 11-hour adventure. Back in the 1920s, travel to Switzerland’s mountain towns became increasingly popular, and small towns quickly developed into luxurious destinations for wealthy adventurers. Today, the updated Glacier Express has been dubbed the world’s slowest express train, making its daily journey between Zermatt and St. Moritz.
Zermatt and St. Moritz: The Perfect Bookends
Zermatt is famous for being the home of the Matterhorn, one of the world’s most iconic mountains due to its striking pyramid shape. St. Moritz, on the other hand, is a glamorous winter resort town that has hosted the Winter Olympics and makes for a picture-perfect ski vacation. Both towns offer gorgeous accommodation options and plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy for a few days.
On-Board Experience
For an elevated and glamorous ride on the Glacier Express, book your ticket in Excellent Class. You’ll be guaranteed a window seat and have access to a bar, champagne, appetizers, and a five-course meal with wine. First and second-class passengers can opt to purchase a three-course meal, beverages, or snacks on board.
Seating Options
| Class | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Excellent Class | Window seat, bar access, champagne, appetizers, and a five-course meal with wine | From $250 |
| First Class | Comfortable seating, meal and beverage options | From $150 |
| Second Class | Standard seating, meal and beverage options | From $100 |
Planning Your Trip
You can board the Glacier Express in either St. Moritz or Zermatt and travel in either direction. There’s one departure from each location daily, starting around 7 a.m. Other stops include Brig, Andermatt, Disentis/Muster, Chur, Thusis, Tiefencastel, Filisur, Bergun, Samedan, and Celerina. The entire route takes about eight hours from start to finish, and the time between each stop is about one to two hours.
Sample Itinerary
| Stop | Arrival Time | Departure Time | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Moritz | 7:00 a.m. | ||
| Brig | 9:30 a.m. | 10:00 a.m. | 30 minutes |
| Andermatt | 11:30 a.m. | 12:00 p.m. | 30 minutes |
| … | … | … | … |
| Zermatt | 3:00 p.m. |
Highlights of the Journey
The scenery along the 181-mile route is simply breathtaking. Some of the highlights include:
- The Landwasser Viaduct: a massive bridge over a deep gorge that takes you straight into a mountain through the Landwasser Tunnel.
- The section of the railroad between Preda and Burgen: a favorite among travelers, with several viaducts and tunnels, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Crossing the Rhine Gorge: often compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States.
- The Oberalp Pass: the peak elevation along the Glacier Express, reaching over 6,700 feet.
Tips and Recommendations
- Book your ticket in advance to ensure availability.
- Consider stopping overnight in some of Switzerland’s most beautiful villages along the way.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views.
- Take advantage of the on-board meal and beverage options to enhance your experience.
The Glacier Express is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of Switzerland’s natural beauty. So, what are you waiting for? Book your ticket and get ready for the scenic train ride of a lifetime!
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