The alpine country of Switzerland is a travel addict's dream Historic towns and villages can be found amongst a backdrop of expansive nature, with mountains, plains and lakes. Our Interrail community can assure you that the best way to see all of this is from a train! Below, our local Switzerland ambassadors will introduce you to a lesser-known scenic railway line, and our community members will recall their favourite finds from the Bernese Oberland.
The scenic Rorschach-Heiden railway line in northeast Switzerland is only locally known, but it is amazing! This mountain rack railway is the only narrow gauge cog-rail in Switzerland, besides the Rigi line. The 7km route offers great views, including a view over Lake Constance throughout most of the trip, which can be enjoyed from open carriages in summer. It connects Rorschach with Heiden, which is a starting point for skiers in winter. Both railway lines are operated by Appenzeller Bahnen , a private company which accepts Interrail Passes for free travel.
It has a car-free old town and a market square where they hold elections. There is also a Locher brewery with a visitor centre. Reachable by narrow gauge railway lines. It has a famous baroque monastery, the Benedictine Einsiedeln Abbey , established in the 10th century. The town is also one of the starting points for the Camino de Santiago trail, which stretches all the way to Spain.
It has a wonderful old town with a small castle. Families can enjoy Knie's Kinderzoo. Located in east Switzerland, close to Chur and Davos. In winter it is a good starting point for skiing, while in summer it is a wonderful starting point for medium hikes up to 2,m above sea level.
For example, take a hike up Weisshorn, which has a good restaurant on top, or Grosser Mythen 1,m , which has views over Lake Lucerne and the pre-Alps.
