All Aboard the Scenic Route: Taking the High Road on Europe's Iconic Slow Trains

All Aboard the Scenic Route: Taking the High Road on Europe's Iconic Slow Trains - Wind Through the Alps on the Bernina Express

Gliding past glaciers and Alpine panoramas, the Bernina Express is one of Europe's most scenic train journeys. This rail line winds through the dramatic landscapes of the Swiss Alps and over the Bernina Pass while connecting Chur, Switzerland with Tirano, Italy.

The four hour ride takes travelers on a route that has been active since 1910, making it the highest railway crossing in Europe. The Bernina Express passes through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges - including the famous Brusio Circular Viaduct that loops the train 360 degrees for views over Val Poschiavo.

One of the highlights is getting up close to Piz Bernina, the highest mountain peak in the Eastern Alps at 4,049 meters (13,284 feet). On a clear day, you can soak in the surrounding vistas of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, valleys and streams from the comfort of your panoramic train car.

Many travelers rave that riding the Bernina Express made for an unforgettable experience and was a scenic wonderland. The views of the Alps are said to be phenomenal, with travelers calling it "the most spectacular" and "most beautiful" train ride they've ever taken. Others say the Alpine scenery was so stunning it took their breath away.

The trains themselves also receive praise for their design. The panoramic cars have extra large windows to maximize sightseeing, and some trains even have open-air observation cars in summer. Travelers say the trains are modern, comfortable and clean.

While some note the Bernina Express is on the pricier side for train travel in Europe, most feel it's worth paying extra given the incredible views and unique experience. Many recommend splurging on first class for even more space and comfort.

All Aboard the Scenic Route: Taking the High Road on Europe's Iconic Slow Trains - Marvel at Coastal Views on the Flåm Railway

Connecting Oslo with the picturesque village of Flåm, the Flåm Railway offers one of Norway’s most dramatic and scenic train journeys. This 12.4 mile line winds through steep valleys and along fjord edges while climbing 900 meters to reach Myrdal station. With breathtaking views around every bend, it's easy to see why the Flåm Railway is regarded as one of the world's most beautiful train rides.

Operating since 1940, the Flåm Railway takes travelers on a wildly scenic ride as it passes thundering waterfalls, snowy peaks and deep ravines. One of the highlights is getting an up-close look at Kjosfossen waterfall, which tumbles 200 meters into the Flåm valley. The train makes a brief stop here, allowing you to admire the powerful cascade and snap photos of its billowing spray.

Further along, the Flåm Railway hugs cliffs overlooking the glassy Aurlandsfjord, treating passengers to stunning vistas over the deepest fjord in the world. Gazing out the window, you’ll be awestruck by the dramatic scenery of sheer rock faces and cascading waterfalls set against the sparkling blue fjord waters.

Many travelers say riding the Flåm Railway was a highlight of their time in Norway, calling it “a marvel of engineering” and “an unbelievable experience.” Others describe it as “the most picturesque” and “most thrilling” train ride they’ve taken. The views of mountains, waterfalls and fjords are said to be phenomenal.

In addition to the scenery, travelers praise the design of the train cars which have panoramic windows to maximize sightseeing opportunities. The spacious observation decks between the cars also allow you to photograph the landscapes.

All Aboard the Scenic Route: Taking the High Road on Europe's Iconic Slow Trains - Cross Fjords on Norway's Most Scenic Rail Line

Journeying across Norway’s fjord-carved landscape, the Bergen Railway showcases some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe. This 300 mile route connects Oslo with coastal Bergen as it crosses the Hardangervidda, Europe’s largest high mountain plateau. Traversing lofty bridges and plunging through deep tunnels, the Bergen Railway treats you to nonstop Norwegian natural splendor.

One of the most thrilling sections is the 10 mile stretch from Finse to Myrdal. Here, the train slowly creeps along cliff edges, offering astounding vistas over Norway’s longest and deepest fjord – Sognefjord. Gazing out the panoramic windows, you’ll marvel at the crystalline fjord waters surrounded by towering mountains and cascading waterfalls. It’s a landscape of immense power and beauty. Further enhancing the experience are outdoor viewing platforms between some cars, allowing you to photograph the epic scenery.

The Flåm Railway connects with the Bergen Railway at Myrdal station. This allows you to combine both routes for the ultimate Norwegian fjord experience. Travelers say the rail journey from Bergen to Myrdal and then down to Flåm is one of Norway's top attractions. The landscape is described as breathtaking and otherworldly as you cross the desolate Hardangervidda plateau before plunging into the fjord-carved canyons.

Near Voss, the Bergen Railway crosses Nordheimsund Bridge spanning 900 feet above water. You’ll gasp at the thrilling vantage point over pristine Aurlandsfjord. Further along at Bolstadøyri, you can photograph the Stalheimskleiva mountain pass plunging dramatically towards the fjords below.

The Bergen Railway opened in 1909 and celebrates over 100 years of showcasing Norway's finest landscapes. Incredible engineering was required to traverse this rugged terrain. The longest tunnel at Finse is over 4 miles long! While providing great views, the exposed route sees frequent snow blockages in winter.

All Aboard the Scenic Route: Taking the High Road on Europe's Iconic Slow Trains - Journey Through Wine Country on the GoldenPass Panoramic

Gliding past storybook castles and rolling vineyards, the GoldenPass Panoramic train offers a delightful way to explore Switzerland's wine regions. This scenic rail line connects central Switzerland’s Lucerne with Montreux on Lake Geneva, taking you through the glorious heart of Swiss wine country.

Onboard the panoramic GoldenPass trains, you'll be surrounded by expansive glass windows perfect for soaking up vineyard vistas dotted with quaint villages. Traversing the Vaud and Valais cantons, you'll get a closeup look at terraced vines growing on impossibly steep slopes. It’s a testament to the winemakers’ tenacity and ingenuity.

One of the highlights is passing through Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrating 800 years of winemaking tradition. Its 30,000 vertical vineyards cascade down to the shores of Lake Geneva in spectacular fashion. Photos snapped from your seat will showcase the patchwork of vines set against the dazzling blue lake and Alpine peaks. You'll understand why Lavaux is called the "vineyard balcony of the Swiss Riviera."

Further along, the GoldenPass Panoramic threads through the hillsides surrounding Montreux, treating you to stunning panoramas. Gazing out the window, the terraced Chablais vineyards sweep down to Lake Geneva’s sapphire waters set against the dramatic backdrop of the Alps. It's an awesome display of nature's beauty.

In the upper Rhône valley, vineyards drape over craggy cliffs and populate sunny slopes, representing the diversity of grapes grown in the Valais region. While pausing at the towns of Martigny, Sierre and Visp, you’ll see vines planted on south-facing sites to maximize sunlight for ripening the grapes.

Travelers say the GoldenPass Panoramic transports you through some of the world’s most picturesque wine regions. The scenery of glistening lakes, velvety vineyards and craggy Alpine peaks exceeding 13,000 feet is phenomenal. Riding the GoldenPass allows you to relax and soak in the views of Switzerland’s spellbinding landscapes.

All Aboard the Scenic Route: Taking the High Road on Europe's Iconic Slow Trains - Explore Moorlands and Mountains on the West Highland Line

Cutting through the dramatic Highlands landscape, the West Highland Line treats you to some of Scotland’s most magnificent scenery. This scenic railway connects Glasgow with the port of Mallaig on the west coast, taking you past lochs, mountains, moors and castles. Traversing remote terrain and rural villages, it’s a quintessential Scottish experience.

Leaving Glasgow, the train heads northwest through a landscape decorated with purple heather moors and tranquil lochs. Gazing out the window, you’ll spot grazing sheep and cattle amidst open grasslands bounded by rolling forested hills.

After crossing Rannoch Moor’s wind-swept wilderness, the West Highland Line reaches the outdoor playground of Glen Coe. Get your cameras ready as the train slowly crawls past the valley’s iconic pyramid-shaped mountains, like Bidean nam Bian towering dramatically above. You’ll marvel at the glacier-scoured, scree-sloped peaks while appreciating the engineering feat of building railways through this rugged terrain.

Further on, the route hugs the shores of Loch Eil, treating you to glistening waters with a backdrop of cloud-capped peaks. At the tiny request stop of Arisaig, you’ll delight in the panoramas over islands dotting the Sound of Arisaig towards the Highlands and outer isles beyond.

The highlights keep coming as the West Highland Line crosses the imposing 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct. You’ll admire its graceful Concrete arches stretching 1,000 feet across a valley overlooking Loch Shiel. On a sunny day, you’ll delight in epic views of the viaduct’s reflection shimmering on the lake’s surface.

By the time the train pulls into Mallaig, you’ll have soaked up spectacular Highlands vistas showcasing Scotland’s natural beauty at its finest. The remote fishing village port marks the trail’s end, where you can continue onwards to the Isle of Skye or unwind after an unforgettable rail journey.

For many travelers, riding the West Highland Line stands out as the most memorable experience of their time in Scotland. They describe epic scenery of misty mountains, moody moors and glassy lochs plus occasional glimpses of roaming deer and soaring eagles. The slower speed of the train allows you to properly admire the landscapes and appreciate the engineering achievements of its hairpin turns, spiraling tunnels and towering viaducts.

While the views out the window mesmerize, travelers also rave about the sociable atmosphere onboard. TheWest Highland Line transports you back to the golden age of train travel, when the railways were a place to meet fellow adventurers. Starting conversations comes naturally as you gather in the lounge car or on the outdoor viewing platforms. Friendships form as fast as the ever-changing vistas roll by outside.

All Aboard the Scenic Route: Taking the High Road on Europe's Iconic Slow Trains - See the Cinque Terre By Train on the Genoa to La Spezia Route

Hugging the craggy coastline of northwest Italy's Ligurian Sea sits Cinque Terre - "Five Lands" in Italian. This string of pastel-hued fishing villages has captivated travelers for decades thanks to its picturesque cliffside setting and timeless charm. The best way to experience Cinque Terre is by train along the Genoa to La Spezia route. This rail line transports you to the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site, treating you to majestic Mediterranean views.

The local passenger train that connects Genoa with La Spezia is nicknamed the "Cinque Terre Express." But this is no luxury locomotive - it's just a regular commuter train. However, hopping aboard is the ideal mode of transport to explore these five enchanting villages that are inaccessible by road. The train stops at each of the towns, allowing you easy access to explore at your own pace. No driving or boat tickets required!

The Cinque Terre train hugs the coastline as much as possible, offering breathtaking vistas over the sapphire Ligurian Sea and the towns' colorful stacked houses. One of the most scenic sections is the stretch between Levanto and Monterosso. Here the train squeezes between the water and the sheer cliffs, giving you an appreciation for the engineering marvel it took to construct the rail line. Gazing out the window, you'll delight in cliffside lemon groves and vineyards sweeping down to rocky seashores. The views of crystal waters fringed by steep crags are absolutely mesmerizing.

Starting from the northwest, the train makes stops at Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. Each town has its own unique charm ranging from Vernazza's natural harbor hugged by steep slopes to Corniglia's high-perched position 300 steps above the sea. Local trains run frequently, allowing easy ability to hop on and off exploring the villages. Or you can hike between the towns on seaside trails, with the trains as a backup for tired legs.

While the train offers quick transportation between villages, it's really about the spectacular vistas you'll soak up during the ride. The Cinque Terre coastline is known for its rugged beauty and the train delivers it in spades. Travellers say photos snapped from the rail carriages showcase the area's dramatic landscapes and colors better than you can capture on foot. The train lets you sit back and admire the scenery at leisure rather than watching your every footstep on the trails.

All Aboard the Scenic Route: Taking the High Road on Europe's Iconic Slow Trains - Take in Castles and Countryside on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway

Transporting you back to the glory days of train travel, the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway offers a nostalgic ride through quintessential English scenery. This heritage line chugs through the Cotswolds countryside, treating you to vistas of green meadows dotted with sheep, sleepy villages, and the spires and turrets of England’s finest castles.

The 28 mile roundtrip journey connects Cheltenham with Broadway, taking you past rolling hills, river valleys and picture-perfect market towns. Traversing this section of the Cotswolds since the 1800s, the railway corridor provides the perfect frame for admiring the mellow stone cottages and church steeples synonymous with this region.

One highlight is passing Sudeley Castle, a magnificent 15th century castle with vast gardens and panoramic views over the Cotswolds hills. Further along, the train approaches Stanway House, a stately Jacobean manor with Britain’s tallest fountain shooting 300 feet high. You’ll delight in witnessing jets of water propelled skyward next to Stanway’s limestone facade topped with baroque pinnacles.

The route then heads towards Broadway, quintessential England with its higgledy-piggledy stone cottages draped in roses and wisteria. You’ll relax into the slow pace of life in this Worcestershire town seemingly frozen in time. Finally, the train reaches Broadway’s station, which could be mistaken for a cottage with its thatched roof and timber-framed design blending seamlessly with the village architecture.

While scouting photogenic castles and cottages from your seat, you’ll relish in the nostalgia of traveling by vintage steam train. Puffing steam, gleaming paintwork and the cacophonous chugs of the engine evoke Britain’s bygone era of railway travel. Many of the carriages date back to the 1920s and 30s, making you feel as if you’re journeying with well-heeled travelers from a century ago.

Adding to the atmosphere is the enthusiasm of the volunteers who keep the history of railways alive. Friendly staff dressed in period uniforms greet passengers and shepherd everyone on board. Throughout the journey, they share stories and trivia about rail travel through the ages. Kids delight at getting hands-on demonstrations about how steam trains work.

All Aboard the Scenic Route: Taking the High Road on Europe's Iconic Slow Trains - Rolling Over Rails Through the English Countryside on the Watercress Line

Meandering through Hampshire’s peaceful countryside, the Watercress Line offers a delightful journey back to the golden age of steam trains. This heritage railway follows the route of the former Mid-Hants line, which once transported locally grown watercress to markets across Britain. Today, it transports you to a bygone era of leisurely train travel through rural England.

The 10 mile roundtrip ride connects Alton with Alresford, taking you past undulating green hills, tranquil valleys and villages unchanged through the centuries. Traversing this slice of quintessential England, it becomes clear how the railway earned its nickname “The Watercress Line.” The lush landscape bursts with verdant forests and meandering rivers perfect for cultivating the leafy green crop.

One highlight is crossing the Meon Valley aboard the Stony Batter viaduct, which towers 90 feet above water meadows dotted with grazing sheep. You’ll delight in views extending for miles over patchwork fields bounded by hedgerows. Further along, the train passes through Medstead & Four Marks station, where you can admire its decorative Victorian canopy supporting an ornate iron and glass roof. The archetypal country railway architecture blends seamlessly with its bucolic surroundings.

The locomotives powering the Watercress Line are the stars of the show. Impeccably restored steam and diesel heritage trains delight trainspotters and families alike. Seeing the clouds of steam billowing, hearing the chugs of the engine and relishing the smells of coal smoke will make you feel as if you're journeying through a bygone era. Adding to the time-warp atmosphere are station masters adorned in smart uniforms and polite attendants strolling the aisles.