Ever since 1892, the Brienz Rothorn Railway in Brienz, Bernese Oberland, has been charming visitors. A steam-powered journey takes you up to the Brienzer Rothorn.
This scenic ride offers breathtaking views and is truly a unique experience. It’s a perfect day trip activity when you in or around Brienz.
What is the Brienz Rothorn Railway?
The Brienz Rothorn Railway is a historic steam cogwheel train that travels from Lake Brienz to the summit of the Brienzer Rothorn. It’s the only daily steam-powered cogwheel railway in Switzerland, offering a nostalgic trip back in time, so cool!
How Long is the Ride on the Brienz Rothorn Railway?
The ride from Brienz to the summit of the Brienzer Rothorn takes about one hour. During this time, the small steam locomotives push the red panorama coaches up the mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
What Can You See from the Brienz Rothorn Summit?
Panoramic Views
At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Bernese Alps, Lake Brienz, and the Grimsel area. On clear days, you can even see Pilatus and Hogant. The view is truly magnificent and so worth the journey.
The views are the best on clear days, so your best chance are summer days in our opinion.
Hiking and Wildlife
The summit is a great starting point for hiking. Several trails are suitable for all levels of hikers. You might also spot local wildlife, such as marmots and ibex, during your hike.
Dining with a View
There are two restaurants at the summit, including the Mountain Lodge Rothorn Kulm. Enjoy delicious Swiss food while taking in the spectacular views. The lodge also has newly refurbished rooms if you wish to stay overnight and experience the beautiful sunset and sunrise.
A stay here is unforgettable, just imagine the sunset and in the morning the spectacular sunrise!
How to Get to the Brienz Rothorn Railway?
By Train and PostBus
- From Interlaken Ost or Luzern: Easily take the Zentralbahn to Brienz, then board the steam cog railway to Brienzer Rothorn.
- From Schüpfheim: Take the PostBus to the valley station Rothornbahn in Sörenberg, then take the aerial cableway to the summit.
Travel Tips
- Operating Season: The steam railway runs daily from June to October. The aerial cableway from Sörenberg operates year-round.
- Travel Duration: The train journey to the summit takes around 60 minutes.
- Tickets: Buy your tickets on arrival at the station. Reduced rates are available with the Swiss Travel Pass/GA travelcard.
What Makes the Brienz Rothorn Railway Special?
Free Ride on Your Birthday
What is a better way of celebrating your birthday with a free ride on the steam railway! It’s a unique way to make your special day even more memorable:).
Steam Sausage Express
Every Wednesday at 10:00 AM from June to October, you can enjoy the “Steam Sausage Express.” This special train ride combines the scenic journey with a tasty sausage treat.
Is the Brienz Rothorn Railway Family-Friendly?
Yes, the Brienz Rothorn Railway is perfect for families. It’s suitable for children of all ages and offers a fun and educational experience for everyone.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Brienz Rothorn Railway?
The best time to visit is from June to October when the steam railway is in operation. Summer months provide the best weather for enjoying the scenic views and outdoor activities.
What Should You Know Before Your Trip to the Brienz Rothorn Railway?
Highlights at a Glance
- Unique steam train ride: The trip by steam train to the summit takes about one hour.
- Breathtaking mountain panorama: Be amazed by the mountain panorama with a view of Lake Brienz.
- Activities for all ages: Enjoy a wide variety of things to do.
- Special trips: Try the “Steam Sausage Cruiser” or the exclusive footplate ride.
Travel Tips
- Early seat reservation: It’s recommended to reserve your seat early.
- Time required: Allow at least five or more hours for a trip to the Brienzer Rothorn.
- Check operating hours: Inform yourself in advance about the railway’s operating hours.
- Weather check: Always check for weather-related timetable changes and ensure clear skies for the best views, do this shortly before leaving, to make sure you will have lovely whether, as in our opinion good whether can make this activity even better.
Best Months to Visit the Brienz Rothorn Railway
An excursion to Brienzer Rothorn is best from early June to late October. These months offer the best chance to enjoy a combination of snow-capped mountain tops in the distance and beautiful vegetation on the lower hills. Late spring (June) and fall (October) are particularly beautiful.
Ticket Prices for the Brienzer Rothorn
Return Journey
| Route | 1/2 Fare | Full Fare | Children (6-15yrs) | Junior Card |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brienz → Rothorn → Brienz | CHF 48.00 | CHF 96.00 | CHF 10.00 | CHF 0.00 |
| Brienz → Planalp → Brienz | CHF 32.00 | CHF 64.00 | CHF 10.00 | CHF 0.00 |
One-Way Ticket
| Route | 1/2 Fare | Full Fare | Children (6-15yrs) | Junior Card |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brienz → Rothorn | CHF 31.00 | CHF 62.00 | CHF 5.00 | CHF 0.00 |
| Brienz → Planalp | CHF 20.50 | CHF 41.00 | CHF 5.00 | CHF 0.00 |
Note: The seat guarantee costs an additional CHF 8.00 when purchasing tickets in advance (in the webshop or at the ticket counter). Prices are reduced for holders of the Half-Fare travelcard or GA travelcard.
Conclusion
The Brienz Rothorn Railway offers a unique and unforgettable experience. The best time to visit the Brienzer Rothorn is from June to October. During the summer months you have the highest chance of clear skies and the best views. We hope you will have a lovely time exploring this beautiful place!
