Brienz Rothorn Bahn — Attraction in Brienz (BE)

My experience aboard the Brienzer Rothorn Bahn was a mixed one, and I feel compelled to provide a more detailed review. Let me delve deeper into the various aspects of my visit.

First and foremost, the Brienzer Rothorn Bahn offers a truly unique and picturesque journey through the Swiss Alps. The scenic train ride provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, with lush green valleys and majestic snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. The natural beauty of this region is undoubtedly the highlight of the trip and makes it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and avid photographers.

The historical significance of the cogwheel railway is also worth noting. The Brienzer Rothorn Bahn has been in operation for well over a century, and riding on a vintage steam-powered locomotive adds an element of nostalgia and charm to the experience. Learning about the railway's history and the engineering behind it was genuinely fascinating.

However, my enthusiasm was tempered by a few notable drawbacks. One of the most significant issues was the lack of toddler-friendliness. The strict policy of not allowing strollers on board made it quite challenging for families with young children. Having to carry our toddler throughout the journey was not only inconvenient but also physically taxing. It would be greatly beneficial if the railway could consider offering some accommodation for parents with strollers in the future.

Another issue that deserves attention is the overpowering smell of steam. While the use of a steam-powered locomotive is an integral part of the experience, the odor could be quite intense and persistent within the train cars. This aspect might be uncomfortable, especially for those who are sensitive to strong smells or traveling with small children.

Lastly, it's essential to mention ticket prices. The cost of admission to the Brienzer Rothorn Bahn is on the higher side, and this might make it feel like a bit of a splurge, especially for budget-conscious travelers. While the stunning views and historical significance justify some expense, potential visitors should be prepared for this aspect.

In conclusion, the Brienzer Rothorn Bahn offers a memorable journey through the Swiss Alps, with breathtaking scenery and a rich history. However, it falls short in terms of toddler-friendliness due to the stroller policy and can be marred by the strong smell of steam within the train cars. Travelers who prioritize the natural beauty and historical aspects of the experience may find it worth the investment, but others should weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding to embark on...

NOT SUITABLE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN OR ANYONE WITH HEALTH ISSUES. The train passes through a series of tunnels on its way to the top of the mountain. Unfortunately, the tunnels get filled with a lot of smoke and coal particles from the steam engine making it difficult to breath, and any air one does breath is full of harmful polluting coal particles. It’s a shame the tunnels haven’t been ventilated to modern standards. Other than the short tunnel stretches, the smoke isn’t much of an issue as it’s being pumped out of the steam engine into the open air. It’s only during the tunnels that, quite frankly, there is a dangerous amount of smoke as it builds up during the course of the day as trains repeatedly pass through the same tunnels transporting passengers up and down the mountain. The view from the top is superb, and the journey up also has stunning views, it’s just a shame the experience is spoiled by the smoke filled tunnels. As a healthy adult, the tunnels are manageable albeit unpleasant, but for young children or anyone with health conditions inhaling that amount of smoke and struggling to breath for an extended period of time could have serious consequences. At the very least advanced warning of the high levels of smoke in the tunnels should be provided when...

The Brienz Rothorn Bahn is a spectacular journey that offers one of the most scenic train rides in Switzerland. From the moment you board, you're treated to panoramic views of Lake Brienz, lush forests, and dramatic alpine peaks. The ride itself is a nostalgic experience, especially if you choose the steam train, which adds a charming, old-world feel to the ascent. There’s also a diesel train option, and you can mix and match: take one up and the other down, which adds flexibility to your adventure. I highly recommend buying tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, as the trains can fill up quickly. For photography enthusiasts, sitting on the left side of the train going up offers the best views and photo opportunities. Once at the summit, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Unfortunately, during my visit, there were some clouds that partially obscured the view, but the experience was still incredibly memorable. The mountaintop restaurant offers a variety of dishes, but be prepared: food is quite expensive, with most meals priced around 30 CHF per dish. Despite the high prices at the top, the overall experience is well worth it. The combination of engineering, nature, and nostalgia makes the Brienz Rothorn Bahn a must-do for anyone...