All About World Heritage Sites
Make traveling more meaningful
GENEVA—I’m often asked if I have a favorite travel destination, and my answer is always the same: Switzerland. My love affair started decades ago when I became enamored by this country’s rich history, diverse topography, and international vibe. While I had always found the Swiss Travel System the best way to explore the country, I […]
Source: Mountain Hopping in Switzerland Aboard the Glacier Express
Bernina Express, Switzerland: We can wax lyrical about the glacier-capped mountains, waterfall-draped ravines, jewel-colored lakes and endless spruce forests glimpsed through panoramic windows on Switzerland’s Bernina Express but, trust us, seeing is believing. Rolling from Chur in Graubünden to Tirano in northern Italy in four too-quick hours, this narrow-gauge train often tops polls of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys. Beyond the phenomenal Alpine landscape, the railway itself is a masterpiece of early 20th-century engineering, taking 55 tunnels and 196 bridges in its stride.
Source: Lonely Planet picks the world’s most amazing train rides
It is not only the Swiss main line railways that are benefitting from tunnel investment. The Rhätische Bahn (or Rhaetian Railway) is an extensive metre-gauge network in the southeast of the country…
Take a ride on the Bernina Express, Switzerland’s alpine delight. This train journey takes you along one of the most beautiful railway routes in the world now a UNESCO World Heritage Site through the Bernina Pass to the exclusive resort of St Moritz at the Top of the World. Enjoy a round-trip scenic coach trip and ride a bright red rail car, pass
Source: Swiss Alps Bernina Express Rail Tour From Milan: Triphobo
Glaciers, alpine lakes, big mountains, gelato, cappuccino and more on the Bernina Express, Switzerland’s most downloaded GPX route. And there’s a train shuttle to get to the top!
Source: Video: Switzerland’s Most Downloaded GPX Route – Pinkbike
A trip scheduled around the 10th anniversary of the Rhaetian Railway in the Albula/Bernina Landscapes being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site spotlights the best of the Swiss Alps.
Source: Half the Celebration of the UNESCO World Heritage Festival was Getting There •
Linking Northern and Southern Europe, the Gotthard Bernina Circular Tour is the most spectacular way to cross the Alps by rail.
Source: Over the Alps via Gotthard Bernina Circular Tour on the Bernina Express
Having spent two and half years driving across Australia and New Zealand I’ve come to appreciate just how intimate the experience of overland travel can be.
With the freedom to explore far from the tourist trail and head off the beaten path to more rural locations, a self-drive itinerary is something I always strive for when planning my travels. However, along with the freedom of a self-drive itinerary comes the responsibility of navigation, long hours behind the wheel and sourcing accommodation en route. So I thought I’d consider giving rail travel a try.
Having spent a few hours glued to my laptop I’ve been overwhelmed by the number of inspiring rail routes that snake across countries and continents like veins. The diverse mix of landscapes and terrain they encompass is inspiring to say the least.
So, I thought I’d share a few of the greatest rail journeys with you…
CUZCO TO MACHU PICCHU, PERU
Read more from source: A Traveller’s Guide To The Greatest Rail Journeys On Earth
ROCKY MOUNTAINEER (CANADA)
This journey from Vancouver to Calgary promises some of the most scenic views in Canada. The unforgettable ride across the Rocky Mountains has three stops and passes through an array of changing landscapes – from snow-covered mountains to gorges and glacier-fed lakes. The route passes through the Kamloops region and goes up to the ski resorts of Lake Louise and Banff. Impeccable service and delicious food served in opulent dining cars make this journey truly epic.
BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN (UK)
Travel through some of the most exotic landscapes in the U.K. in true aristocratic style with the Belmond Royal Scotsman. The train travels through the beautiful pine-clad mountains of the majestic Scottish Highlands, which is dotted with castles and national parks. Passengers are also treated to rich Scottish cuisine, with formal and informal dinners in the lap of luxury.
BERNINA EXPRESS (SWITZERLAND)
The Bernina Express is the perfect way to experience the mighty and beautiful Alps. The striking contrast between the lush green Val Poschiavo valley in Italy and the icy landscapes found just above make this journey truly memorable.
