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Introduction Stories... |
Swiss Rail
"Switzerland is truly a train lover’s paradise. Like a giant spider’s web, the integrated rail network crisscrosses 5,000 km (3,100 miles) of tracks. This system is interlinked with synchronized connections to lake steamers, gondolas and buses. Many alpine areas are so steep that the only way up is by rack and pinion (cogwheel) tracks. The railway/cableway lines total 1,000 km (620 miles) and the bus framework encompasses 140,000 km (87,000 miles). This complex labyrinth is offered by 300 different companies, combined into the Swiss Pass transportation ticket. Amazingly, the whole network runs like clockwork.”
On a prior trip we wound around and through the Swiss Alps via automobile, which is a seventh wonder trip itself. The trains provide different and more direct experience featuring the vast differences in elevation as you travel the valleys and mountains of the Alps.
One outstanding highlight is of course the mighty sphinx-like Matterhorn, which stands at 4,477m (14,688 ft.).
With the many miles of rails, it is only natural to expect Rail Road Stations frequently, some serving very small towns. The Wengen station. It is particularly interesting because it serves a rural hotel outside of town, meaning you park the car at the Wengen station and a bus fetches you to the hotel up the mountain.
Not all is so serious with Swiss Rail. There is even something for the kids.
Nor are creature comforts ignored, such as a cozy home away from home high in the Alps.
For those of you who would like to see all of the pictures from this trip please click here.
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