Glacier Express: The slowest express train in the world
The Glacier Express train line is a classic when it comes to panoramic trips in Switzerland
The panoramic journey on the Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps is one to remember. St. Moritz is the playground of the rich and famous and Zermatt is home to the world’s most photographed mountain, the Matterhorn. The journey on board the slowest express train in the world takes you over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels. There may be faster ways to travel between Zermatt and St. Moritz, but driving a car is nowhere near as visually satisfying as riding the train.
With ease it climbs to the highest point along the route, the Oberalppass. 2033 metres above sea level, the train starts to wind past idyllic mountain villages, steep rock faces and provides an amazing view into deep gorges and across outlying valleys and glaciers. A particular highlight is the view of the Rhine Gorge, nicknamed the “Swiss Grand Canyon”.
Another highlight is the 142-meter long and 65-meter high Landwasser Viaduct. This impressive structure on five masoned pillars allows the train to cross over an inspiring gorge and straight into the Landwasser Tunnel.
Thanks to the large panoramic windows, you enjoy unimpeded views of the Swiss Alps. This feast for the eyes is followed by a feast for the palate: starter, main course and dessert are freshly prepared in the on-board kitchen and served directly at your seat.
Just in time for the 90th anniversary celebrations, Glacier express are rolling out their completely renovated 1st and 2nd class cars. Modelled on the exclusive Excellence Class carriages, passengers will love the lavish upholstery as they’re whisked through the Swiss Alps in style. The brand new, state of the art infotainment system will allow passengers to obtain additional audio and visual information about the route, available via their tablet or smartphone device.
Excellence Class: the most sought-after seats in Switzerland
Window seat guaranteed
A rail journey through the Swiss Alps has never been so luxurious. Passengers in the new Excellence Class enjoy the highest level of comfort, the superb panoramic view from a guaranteed window seat and culinary highlights.
Concierge on board
The pleasure of travelling Excellence Class starts as soon as guests step onto the platform. Here they are greeted at the welcome desk in front of the Glacier Express by the concierge, who takes care of check-in and all their luggage. Whether champagne and Amuse-Bouche or exciting anecdotes and information about the wonderful landscape passing by the panoramic window, an experienced crew ensures the well-being of guests throughout the entire journey. Guests will also find comprehensive information about the route, the country and its people on their individual tablet.
To the bar for an aperitif
Along the way, the crew will serve a refined, regional five-course meal including accompanying wines. Amuse-bouche and champagne tastes twice as good looking out towards the Piz Bernina. For a welcoming drink or an aperitif, we recommend the exclusive and well-stocked Glacier Bar. Later in the day, an afternoon tea of delicious Friandises is served. The journey in Excellence Class truly is one of the most exclusive tourist highlights in Switzerland.
Photo credit : www.glacierexpress.ch/medien
