The Rothorn Steam Cog Railway is Switzerland's oldest, and opened in 1892. As it trundles its way up the 25% gradient, through six tunnels, and with various stops for water, you sometimes feel you may all have to get out and push. After 60 minutes of huffing and puffing it eventually reaches the top station at 2,350 metres, providing a spectacular 360° panorama of permanently snow covered peaks and a superb view of Lake Brienz.
Once at the top you can walk past the restaurant and up a steep path to a
viewing platform on the peak. From the station there is also an alternative
walk in the opposite direction.
Walking down from the Rothorn is a serious undertaking, requiring about
1¾ hours to Planalp, and a further 1¾ hours to Brienz. It is
essential to be well prepared with suitable clothing, and to keep to the marked
paths with the red and white signs. You should be able to pick up the train at
Planalp station if you need to.
Using the Regional Pass: |
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- From Interlaken WEST, walk or take the bus to Interlaken EAST.
- At the jetty behind the station board the boat to Brienz (1 hour).
- At Brienz, cross the main road and catch the steam cog railway to the Rothorn (1 hour).
- Return to Brienz by cog railway (1 hour).
- Return to Interlaken EAST by boat (1 hour).
- Alternatively return to Interlaken by train.
- From Interlaken EAST, walk or take the bus to Interlaken WEST.
Hints:
- At peak times the restaurant can get busy so take a packed lunch.
- At the top, walk on past the restaurant and climb up to the the peak.
- It is possible to walk down from the top of the Rothorn to Brienz in good weather and with the right clothing, but allow plenty of time if you want to catch the last boat to Interlaken.
- You can also catch the train at the Planalp mid-station if it is not full.
