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Your partner for bespoke group travel throughout the UK and Europe.
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RAIL JOURNEYS OF CENTRAL EUROPE
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The Bernina Express, Switzerland (Swiss Image.ch) |
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The Harz Railway, Germany (HSB Dirk Bahnsen) |
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Throughout Continental Europe, there are numerous opportunities to include a train journey. Though often a means to travel from one destination to another, many offer a scenic route as they glide by serene lakes, scale steep mountains and discover hidden valleys.
Many lines offer both one way and round trip journeys, as well as being able to enjoy sections of the longer lines too. As a result they can be easily worked into an itinerary. Europe also offers the possibility of travelling on board diverse trains, from nostalgic steam locomotives to some of the fastest and most modern in the world. It is therefore possible to satisfy both those travellers who enjoy train travel as well as those who have a passion for it. Following is a selection of ideas for you to consider.
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Switzerland is a must for all train lovers, with scenic journeys traversing the country from east to west and north to south. Amongst those to consider are the following:
The Glacier Express - travelling across the country between St Moritz to Zermatt, this journey takes in the magnificent Swiss Alps. The large panoramic windows take full advantage of the stunning views, and from the comfort of your seat enjoy the 291 bridges crossed and 91 tunnels travelled through.
The Bernina Express – the highest railway in the Alps, this travels between Chur and the Italian town of Tirano, through a region characterised by mountains, glaciers and castles. One of its most well-known features is the Brusio Circular Viaduct, an inventive spiral track which assists the train’s altitude change.
The Golden Pass Line – travelling between the picturesque shores of Lake Lucerne and Montreux (Lake Geneva), this journey takes the traveller from the Swiss Alps to vineyards via 3 mountain passes and 8 lakes. With panoramic windows and a glass roof, travellers are guaranteed the perfect view.
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Germany has many opportunities for train journeys, with an impressive number of heritage lines and historic locomotives throughout the country. These include the following:
The Harz Mountain Railway – operating narrow gauge steam trains on three lines throughout this scenic region, this is a nostalgic addition to a tour itinerary. Nestled between the cities of Goslar, Erfurt and Leipzig, a day excursion on one of these train lines is a tour highlight.
The Black Forest Line – this takes you across the south west region of Germany, between the striking town of Offenburg and the lakeshore city of Konstanz. The journey passes through the heart of the Black Forest region and past the pine forests the area is renowned for.
The West Rhine Railway – travelling between the cities of Cologne and Mainz, this journey follows the mighty River Rhine and the Rhine Valley, (which is a World Heritage Site). Passing hillside vineyards, castles, pretty villages and towns, this makes a great alternative to a river cruise.
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Austria is full of scenic rail lines which offer fantastic journeys through the various stunning regions this country has to offer. Amongst those to consider are:
The Zillertal Railway – located just to the east of Innsbruck, this narrow gauge steam railway takes you on a memorable journey through the Zillertal Valley, between Jenbach and Mayrhofen. This section of the Tyrol is considered one of the most charming in the region and the train offers a great way to discover it.
The SchafbergBahn Railway – the steepest cog wheel railway in the country, this train travels between the picturesque lakeshore town of St Wolfgang (just east of Salzburg), through fields and forests to the high summit of the Schafberg. Once there, the views across the region are stunning.
The Semmering Railway – operating in the mountains between Gloggnitz and the winter resort town of Mürzzuschlag, this UNESCO World Heritage Centre is a feat of engineering, navigating historic viaducts and tunnels. With a convenient location just to the south west of Vienna, it makes for a great day’s excursion from the city.
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Zillertal Train, Austria (Tirol)
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Glacier Express, Switzerland (Glacier Express.ch)
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With over 50 years’ experience in tailor-making group tours, our dedicated and experienced team are here to book all ground services for your trips. Through long standing and trusted supplier relationships, and a wealth of first-hand knowledge, we work with you to create your bespoke tour. The services we arrange include accommodation, executive coaches with professional drivers, informative local tour guides, admission to attractions, ferry and train travel, meals as needed, and experienced tour managers, amongst many others.
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Visit our web-site to view our inspirational destination ideas and special theme tours covering the UK, Europe and beyond
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We look forward to hearing from you.
With kind regards,
Claire
Claire Thompson
Commercial Manager
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