Golden Pass Railway

Imagine a journey where azure lake waters, snow-capped Alpine peaks, and emerald valleys drift past your train window. The GoldenPass Railway is more than just transport; it is one of the most scenic tourist routes, starting in elegant Montreux. This legendary line connects the shores of Lake Geneva with high-altitude resorts, turning an ordinary trip into a true aesthetic delight.

GoldenPass Railway. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Switzerland is famous for its impeccable rail connections, and the Golden Pass is its crown jewel. The route is managed by MOB and BLS AG and is considered one of the first electrified lines in the country. The railway is particularly recognizable for its signature blue-and-cream carriages, with interiors inspired by the atmosphere of the famous "Orient Express".

The main feature of the modern GoldenPass Railway is its unique variable gauge technology. Thanks to innovative engineering solutions, trains can automatically adjust to different rail standards, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic views without the need for transfers. This marvel of technology and design attracts thousands of travelers every year, eager to see the heart of the Alps in all its glory.

To check the schedule, book panoramic seats, or obtain information on special offers, you can use the official communication channels.

While traveling on the GoldenPass Railway, your main activity is contemplation. The panoramic windows of the carriages create a feeling of total immersion in the landscape: you will see steep mountain spirals, dense forests, and authentic Alpine villages. The entire journey takes just over three hours, but the concentration of beauty per kilometer is off the charts.

Travelers have the unique opportunity to choose their travel style. You can set off on the ultra-modern GoldenPass Express, offering the highest level of comfort, or choose the GoldenPass Belle Époque. The latter is a true portal to the past: luxurious retro carriages and a wine salon recreate the atmosphere of the "Belle Époque," making you feel like an aristocrat from the early 20th century.

Along the way, be sure to pay attention to the stop in Gstaad—a prestigious mountain resort where gala events are often held and world celebrities meet. Regardless of the class chosen, the journey will provide you with the chance to take hundreds of breathtaking photos and enjoy the silence and majesty of Swiss nature.

The journey begins in the heart of the city—at the main Montreux railway station, located at Rue de la Gare 22. This is a central transport hub that is easily accessible from anywhere in the city on foot or by local public transport.

If you are planning a trip from other regions of the country, the Swiss Federal Railways provide regular connections. Montreux is conveniently reached by direct trains from Geneva, Lausanne, or Zurich. The station serves as a transfer point between the standard European gauge and narrow-gauge mountain lines.

For those who prefer a car, there is a convenient underground parking lot at the station: GPMG (Garage Parc Montreux Gare SA). However, remember that the true charm of the GoldenPass Railway lies in giving up the wheel to enjoy the views from the train window.

The history of this ambitious project began back in 1873, when the idea arose to connect the shores of Lake Geneva with the picturesque Alps of the Bernese Oberland. The first section of the track, linking Montreux and Zweisimmen, was fully completed by 1905. Due to the challenging mountain terrain, the line was electrified from the very start, making it one of the oldest electric railways in the country.

For a long time, a direct route without transfers remained just a dream due to the difference in gauge width: the tracks in Montreux are narrow (one meter), while further on, they are standard. Engineers searched for a solution for decades, and a real breakthrough occurred in 2008. A unique variable gauge bogie technology was developed, allowing the train to literally "change shoes" on the go, adjusting the distance between the wheels when switching to a different rail standard.

The official launch of the modern GoldenPass Express took place on December 11, 2022. The ceremony was attended by global star Shania Twain and Olympic champion Mike von Grünigen. This moment marked the fulfillment of a century-old dream for Swiss engineers and gave tourists the opportunity for seamless travel through the most beautiful corners of the Alps.

To fully experience the magic of this route, you should set aside exactly 3 hours 15 minutes for the GoldenPass Express journey from Montreux to Interlaken. This time will fly by as you gaze at the ever-changing landscapes.

Overall, we recommend dedicating half a day to this experience. Consider the time needed to arrive at the station (at least 20-30 minutes before departure), purchase tickets, and perhaps take a short walk at intermediate stations, such as the elite resort of Gstaad. If you plan to return to Montreux on the same day, plan for a full-day trip.

Trains run daily on this route. According to the current schedule, the GoldenPass Express operates four trips per day in each direction, making it easy to plan your journey for either the morning or afternoon.

Ticket offices and the information center at the Montreux station operate according to the following schedule:

• Monday — Sunday: 08:00 – 12:00 and 13:30 – 16:30.

It is recommended to book seats in advance, especially during the high tourist season (winter and summer), as panoramic carriages are in high demand.

Montreux is a city with a rich history and an incredible atmosphere, so a stroll through its surroundings before or after your train ride is an excellent addition to your itinerary. You will be able to see monuments to famous figures in the arts, ancient castles, and the charming streets of the old town.