More than the historical landmarks and man-made attractions it’s often associated with, Europe is home to some of the most beautifully rugged landscapes. From rolling plains of vibrant green grasses and imposing mountains lining the horizon to sparkling blue lakes stretching as far as the eye can see, come aboard and explore five of Europe’s scenic train journeys.
La Petit Train Jaune, France
La Petit Train Jaune, or “The Yellow Train,” may be well-known for its canary yellow and bright red cars, but the best part of the train is really its ability to showcase France’s natural landscapes. The three-hour journey transports passengers from Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour-de-Carol, where travelers along the way are privy to sights of the Pyrenees mountains and untouched rolling green valleys.
Traveling on La Petit Train Jaune is also an educational experience, as the route it follows today was originally built to connect the high Catalan plateau to the rest of the region beginning in 1903. Riding on the train may not be for the faint of heart, however, as one of the stations is Bolquère. Sitting at 5,236 feet above sea level, it is the highest metric railway line in France. In total, La Petit Train Jaune serves 22 stations and operates year-round. During the warm summer months, the train will offer open-air wagons, allowing passengers to breathe in the fresh mountain air. La Petit Train Jaune does not accept advanced reservations, so travelers should be prepared to purchase tickets at their desired station.
The Bernina Express, Switzerland
Any scenic train ride in Switzerland is sure to impress, but the variety in landscapes offered with the Bernina Express is one-of-a-kind. As the route begins in Chur, travelers are immediately surrounded by the stunning scenery of Switzerland’s oldest town, and through the four-hour journey, passengers will traverse the Swiss Engadin Alps, coming across views of dramatic glaciers. Upon arriving in Tirano, Italy, the gently swaying palm trees greeting travelers will surely complete the viewing experience.
Much of the ride occurs on the Rhaetian Railway and meanders across 55 tunnels and 196 bridges and viaducts. Some of the most notable sights along the way include the Landwasser Viadcut, Morteratsch Glacier, the town of Poschiavo and Lago Bianco. The Bernina Express does run year-round, and travelers looking for a seat in the panorama cars will need to make a reservation in advance. Tickets for the standard cars can be purchased day-of.
Odontotos Rack Railway, Greece
For a quicker — but still beautiful — trip, the one-hour-long journey from Diakopto to Kalavryta is jam-packed with sights of rock tunnels, bridges, passing woodlands, waterfalls and rapids. Built in 1895, the track runs through the gorge of Vouraikos, which is abundant in waterfalls and natural pools, to the intermediate stop in Megalo Spilaio. From there, after passengers have had the opportunity to stretch their legs, travelers will pass the village of Zachlorou and arrive at their destination in Kalavryta.
There’s much to do in this small town as well, including exploring one of the oldest Peloponnese monasteries, Agia Lavra. Kalavryta is also home to one of the biggest ski centers in Greece and is worth investigating in the appropriate weather conditions. Travelers can choose to purchase a one-way ticket to the mountain town, though the round-trip tickets do come with extra perks, including free entrance to some attractions in Kalavryta.
The Bergen Railway, Norway
Norway is known for its natural oddities, and a ride along the Bergen Railway is sure to capture the country’s rugged essence. The six-and-a-half-hour journey transports passengers from bustling Oslo to the charming city of Bergen, crossing Hardangervidda National Park along the way. In addition to the views of sweeping mountains, emerald plains and sparkling lakes, the train traverses through canyons, rivers, barren icescapes and Norway’s iconic fjords.
Other notable attractions include Flå Station in Hallingdal, where visitors can check out the nearby bear park, and Geilo, a destination known for its ski resorts and mountain hiking trails. The Bergen Railway runs year-round, and travelers will need to make a reservation in advance, as the train departs only four to six times per day.
El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, Spain
On the higher, more luxurious end, El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo moves passengers through Spain’s northern coast on an eight-day, seven-night journey. Running from San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela, travelers can sit back and relax on Spain’s oldest tourist train while taking in the sites of local landmarks such as the basilica of San Julian de los Prados, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and the Guggenheim Museum. Throughout the journey, passengers will also have the opportunity to explore some of Spain’s natural scenery at Picos de Europa National Park and the Caves of Altamira.
As this picturesque ride covers some significant distance, tickets must be purchased well in advance. The train is also limited to 28 passengers because of its luxurious, overnight nature, so travelers should account for this exclusivity when planning their trip.
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