Highest altitude railway station in Europe.
Overview
-
Hint
Intro
When asked why he felt the area was so popular, an American tourist said, “Interlaken and its surroundings are exactly how we imagined Switzerland would be.” The setting between the two lakes and the mountains means that its Swiss essence has been preserved.” A one-of-a kind trip is the rail journey with the Jungfraubahn to the Jungfraujoch-Top of Europe. A true pioneer of all mountain railways which is celebrating its centenary in 2012.
Jungfrau Railway
In the 19th century, the Jungfrau in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland was a magnet for many railway pioneers. But it was Adolf Guyer-Zeller’s dream, claimed by many to be impossible, which was fulfilled after 16 years on 1 August (Swiss National Day) 1912, when his Jungfrau Railway opened up the spectacular Jungfraujoch–Top of Europe to the general public.The 21/2 hour trip to the Jungfraujoch–Top of Europe starts in Interlaken and winds its way to the Jungfraujoch – the highest-altitude railway station in Europe. From Kleine Scheidegg, high above Grindelwald and Wengen, the route climbs to the Eiger Glacier station and on through a 4.5 miles tunnel hewn through the rock of the Eiger and Mönch. Two observation windows offer breathtaking views of the Alpine landscape. From the Eiger North Wall Station at 9,400ft, passengers can look down to the Grindelwald Valley, Kleine Scheidegg and beyond to Interlaken and Lake Thun. From the Eismeer (Sea of Ice) Station at 10,368ft, the landscape is one of eternal snow, ice and rock.
The summit itself is a glacier & grotto world which lies in the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage. Visitors are afforded excellent views of the Aletsch Glacier, at 14 miles the longest in the Alps. On clear days, views extend even beyond Switzerland’s frontiers to the Vosges mountain range in France and the Black Forest in Germany.
Other attractions include the Sphinx observation building, Ice Palace, Ice Gateway and snow plateau, an audio-visual show, high Alpine research exhibition as well as five restaurants.
Eiger Ambassador Express
“Eiger Ambassador Express” is called the nostalgic luxury train of Jungfrau Railways which is operating between Kleine Scheidegg and the Jungfraujoch. This composition first went into service in 1912 and was restored in the style of Belle Époque in 1944. This first-class train composition now travels exclusively for groups as well as on public days.More info
Good to know
The Swiss Railways – all in one ticket
It’s pure enjoyment and relaxaton. A change of pace. A time for inner peace. See and experience breathtaking views. Discover Switzerland the most delightful way – by train, bus or boat. All in one ticket with the Swiss Pass.More info
Sunstar Hotels at a glance
Sunstar offers eight first-class hotels in the Swiss Alps. Whether you come for a walking or winter sports holiday – guests with all kinds of interests will feel at home and enjoy “Alpine emotions”.More info
