8 Mountain Railways Around The World With Winter Views From The Window
Winter brings out a special charm in mountain landscapes, especially when you can enjoy the views from the comfort of a train. Imagine watching snow-covered peaks and frozen rivers pass by as you travel through some of the world’s most breathtaking routes. Each mountain railway offers something unique, from ancient tunnels to towering bridges. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply looking to relax, these journeys provide a magical experience. Let’s explore some of the best scenic train rides where winter’s beauty is on full display.
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Glacier Express – Switzerland
The Glacier Express is one of the most famous mountain train journeys in the world. This iconic route connects Zermatt and St. Moritz, offering passengers sweeping views of the Swiss Alps during the winter months. As you pass through snow-covered valleys and frozen lakes, the dramatic landscape becomes even more striking against the backdrop of the winter sky. The train’s panoramic windows ensure that you can fully appreciate the beauty of this winter wonderland.
Along the way, travelers are treated to scenic views of the Alps’ highest peaks and picturesque villages tucked in valleys. The journey takes passengers through deep gorges, over bridges, and through tunnels, making it an unforgettable experience. In winter, the snow-capped mountains make for a mesmerizing sight, transforming the entire route into a peaceful, frozen landscape. Whether you’re looking to relax or simply marvel at the stunning surroundings, the Glacier Express is a must-see journey.
Bernina Express – Switzerland & Italy
Connecting Switzerland to Italy, the Bernina Express offers a unique winter experience for those wanting to enjoy the alpine scenery. The route passes through the famous Bernina Range, providing breathtaking views of glaciers and snow-covered peaks. It is especially striking during the winter when the train travels through snow-draped pine forests and over high-altitude bridges. The panoramic windows let you take in the views without obstruction, ensuring that every twist and turn of the route is a sight to behold.
The Bernina Express is not only one of the highest railways in Europe, but it also runs through a UNESCO World Heritage site. The train journey is a true adventure, winding through dramatic mountain landscapes and offering a glimpse into remote villages. In winter, the route becomes even more picturesque, with valleys and peaks transformed by the season’s snowfall. Passengers are treated to a peaceful, scenic ride that showcases the alpine beauty of both Switzerland and Italy.
Rocky Mountaineer – Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer offers one of the most luxurious train journeys in the world, taking travelers through the stunning Canadian Rockies. During the winter months, the train journey becomes even more magical, as snow blankets the mountain ranges and adds a touch of sparkle to the landscape. The route offers incredible views of frozen lakes, towering pines, and snowy mountain peaks, making it a favorite for winter travelers. The large windows allow you to sit back and enjoy the majestic views while cozying up inside the train.
Along the way, the Rocky Mountaineer passes through world-renowned national parks, including Banff and Jasper, where you can marvel at the winter beauty of this region. The train’s service offers gourmet meals and breathtaking views, making the experience even more memorable. For those who want to experience the beauty of the Canadian Rockies in winter, the Rocky Mountaineer is a top choice. It’s a journey that combines both comfort and nature’s spectacular winter charm.
The Swiss RhB – Switzerland
The Swiss RhB offers one of the most scenic train journeys in Switzerland, particularly during the winter months. The train travels through the Engadine region, passing by snow-covered peaks and quaint alpine villages. As you travel through the Alps, the winter scenery is simply stunning, with frozen lakes and towering peaks that create a serene atmosphere. The panoramic windows of the Swiss RhB ensure that passengers can fully appreciate the breathtaking winter landscapes.
This route is famous for its stunning views of the Alps, particularly when traveling along the Bernina Express and the Glacier Express. The train ride offers an intimate connection with the Swiss Alps, as it takes you through some of the most scenic landscapes in Europe. In winter, these landscapes become even more magical, with snow covering the mountains and valleys. The Swiss RhB is a fantastic way to experience the region’s winter charm while enjoying a comfortable and luxurious ride.
The Mount Pilatus Railway – Switzerland
The Mount Pilatus Railway offers one of the most thrilling and scenic winter train rides in Switzerland. This cogwheel train climbs the steep slopes of Mount Pilatus, providing passengers with sweeping views of the surrounding snow-covered landscape. As the train ascends, the views of the Swiss Alps and the frozen Lake Lucerne become more dramatic, with towering peaks in the distance. The journey is both exhilarating and relaxing, with the train taking you up to the summit, where you can enjoy stunning winter vistas.
At the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountain range, covered in a thick layer of snow. The winter months add a special touch to the experience, as the landscape transforms into a snow-covered paradise. Whether you are visiting for the incredible views or the adventure of climbing Mount Pilatus, this railway offers a once-in-a-lifetime winter experience. The ride is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy winter in the Swiss Alps while feeling the thrill of scaling one of Switzerland’s most famous peaks.
The Manx Electric Railway – Isle of Man
The Manx Electric Railway offers an unforgettable winter train journey across the Isle of Man, where passengers can enjoy views of the coastline and the surrounding hills. The train ride passes through charming villages, snow-covered landscapes, and offers stunning views of the Irish Sea. The Manx Electric Railway is one of the oldest electric railways in the world, and in winter, it becomes even more charming as the snow covers the island’s rolling hills and historical sites. The route offers a peaceful and nostalgic journey, providing an intimate connection to the island’s landscape.
During the winter months, the train’s route becomes even more picturesque, with the rugged coastline contrasting beautifully against the snowy backdrop. The Isle of Man is known for its unique history and scenery, and the train journey offers a chance to explore it in a relaxed and scenic way. The Manx Electric Railway is a great way to enjoy winter on this stunning island while embracing the quiet charm of its snow-covered landscapes. Whether you are interested in history or simply want to enjoy a leisurely train ride, this railway offers a memorable winter journey.
The West Highland Line – Scotland
Scotland’s West Highland Line is a breathtaking railway journey, particularly stunning during the winter months. The route takes travelers through the rugged Scottish Highlands, offering stunning views of snow-capped mountains, glistening lochs, and quiet villages. As the train meanders along the western coast, passengers are treated to incredible vistas of the distant peaks and forests covered in a winter blanket. The panoramic windows provide an unobstructed view of the stunning winter landscape, making it a perfect winter escape for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
In winter, the West Highland Line offers some of the most picturesque views in Scotland. The route passes through the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, where the train travels over the bridge, with snow-covered hillsides on either side. The journey also passes along the shores of Loch Awe and Loch Lomond, where the snow gives the lakes a serene, magical feel. For fans of winter scenery and natural beauty, the West Highland Line offers a one-of-a-kind experience in Scotland’s wildest regions.
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway – China
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is one of the highest railways in the world, offering a unique winter experience as it crosses the Tibetan Plateau. As the train ascends through the snowy landscape, passengers can witness the stark beauty of the plateau covered in a thick layer of snow. The journey provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including the Tibetan Himalayas, and vast, untouched wilderness areas. The winter months transform the region into a serene, snow-covered paradise, offering one of the most striking winter landscapes in Asia.
The railway connects Xining in China to Lhasa in Tibet, passing through remote regions where few other transportation options exist. The train travels at high altitudes, offering passengers the chance to experience the incredible beauty of the plateau’s snowy vistas. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is not just a journey across a remote region but a chance to witness some of the most pristine and untouched winter landscapes in the world. It is a remarkable experience for anyone interested in exploring the world’s highest railway and its dramatic winter scenery.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.