Switzerland is renowned not only for its visionary public transport policy and commitment to environmental preservation (for example, the transport of goods by train through an extensive network of tunnels, connecting the continent in a climate-friendly way without European Union (EU) subsidies, even in the most inhospitable regions).

It is regrettable that, partly due to EU intervention, the 1994 referendum could not be fully implemented. Furthermore, the EU, Germany, and Italy, despite billions in European subsidies, do not respect or are significantly delayed in fulfilling their conventional obligations to construct rail links with Switzerland.

The drill head of the Gotthard Base Tunnel.Verkehrshaus der Schweiz, Luzern

For instance, Germany refuses to protect the interests of the port of Hamburg, to complete the connection to the Dutch Betuwelijn. What does “Zämme in Europa” (Constitution of the Canton of Basel-Stadt) mean then? And this is just one example of European disunity.

The Rhätische Bahn  runs (almost) always on time

But travelling by train is also a comfortable pleasure for business travellers and tourists alike. Famous routes include, among others, the Glacier Express, the Pilatusbahn, the Rigibahn, the Gornergrat line, the Jungfrau Express, the Matterhorn Gotthardbahn, and the Bernina Express.

Other lesser-known routes are also worth the trip, for example, the Aigle-Leysin Line, the GoldenPass Line from Montreux to Zweisimmen or further to Lenk im Simmental, the GoldenPass-Express from Montreux to Interlaken, the MOB Line from Montreux to Rochers-de-Naye, or the SBB Line from Montreux to Lausanne and Geneva through Lavaux.

 

From Montreux to Zweisimmen

This train, with its Belle Époque design, passes through Montbovon, Rossinière, Château d’Oex, Rougemont, Saanen, and Gstaad, crossing magnificent landscapes and offering panoramic views all the way to Zweisimmen.

From Montreux to Rochers-de-Naye

This journey takes the traveller to over 2,000 metres above sea level on the Rochers-de-Naye, with splendid views of Lake Geneva, grand hotels, and the Alpine scenery.

 

Het regionale natuurpark Gruyère Pays-d’enhaut 

 

 

Montreux to Lausanne or Geneva through Lavaux

Lavaux is the country’s most famous wine region and is even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A trip is worthwhile in any season, but especially in spring and autumn, when the vineyards, towns, and picturesque villages offer a colourful backdrop.