Ride the Brienz Rothorn Bahn: Switzerland’s Scenic Steam Train

One of the most scenic and nostalgic journeys in Switzerland, the Brienz Rothorn Bahn takes visitors on a magical ride to the summit of the Brienzer Rothorn at 2,244 meters above sea level. This iconic steam-powered cogwheel train, located in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, is a must-do experience for nature lovers, families, and photographers alike.

The Brienz Rothorn steam train going up the mountain in the Swiss Alps

A Journey Through Alpine Beauty

Your adventure begins at the Brienz station, located on Hauptstrasse 149, 3855 Brienz, Switzerland. From here, the charming red carriages are pushed by a historic steam locomotive along a 7.6 km track that winds through lush forests, picturesque alpine meadows, and dramatic mountain landscapes.

Total journey time to the top: ~1 hour

Elevation gain: 1,678 meters

View of the Brienz Rothorn steam train in Swiss Alps

View of the Brienz Rothorn steam train at the top of the mountain.

Reaching the Brienzer Rothorn Summit

At the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and the turquoise-blue Lake Brienz far below. It’s the perfect place to relax, take photos, or go for a short hike to the actual summit peak.

What You Can Do at the Top:

Walk to the Brienzer Rothorn summit
Dine at the mountain restaurant with a viewing terrace
Stay overnight at the Hotel Rothorn Kulm
Watch the trains arrive and depart, perfect for train lovers and kids

Stunning view at the top of the mountain.

View of the Swiss Alps and the beautiful lake at Brienz.

Eat or Sleep on the Mountain

After soaking in the views, enjoy a warm Swiss meal at the Panorama Restaurant Rothorn Kulm. For those seeking a unique experience, spend the night in the mountaintop hotel, where stargazing and sunrise over the Alps will be memories to last a lifetime.

Location & Practical Info

Start Station Address:

Brienz Rothorn Bahn

Hauptstrasse 149, 3855 Brienz, Switzerland

Operating Season: Mid-June to late October (check schedule)

Duration: ~1 hour one way

Booking Tip: Reserve early during peak season and good weather days

Close up view of the Brienzer Rothorn at the train station in Brienz.

Why Ride the Brienz Rothorn Bahn?

This isn’t just a train ride, it’s a journey back in time aboard a heritage steam train with spectacular alpine views. If you're traveling solo, with kids, or on a romantic getaway, the Brienz Rothorn Bahn is one of Switzerland’s most unforgettable mountain excursions.

Other European Train Rides Worth Experiencing

If you enjoy scenic and historic railway journeys, two other unforgettable train rides in Europe are the Flåm Railway in Norway and France’s Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme. While the Flåm Railway is famous for its waterfalls and fjord landscapes, the Baie de Somme steam train offers a completely different atmosphere, crossing peaceful salt marshes and coastal scenery aboard vintage steam locomotives.