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[title]The iconic Glacier Express is as much about the journey as the destination, traversing 91 tunnels and 291 impressive bridges over and through the Swiss Alps to St. Moritz. In fact, the route has been affectionally dubbed ‘the slowest express train in the world’, taking almost eight indulgent hours to cover 291km between Zermatt and St Moritz. One of the many unmissable highlights is when the train climbs to the highest part of the route on the Oberalp Pass, offering truly breath-taking views from a mighty 2,033 metres above-sea-level, before descending to 585 metres. Along the route, don’t miss the Landwasser Viaduct, measuring 142 metres long and 65 metres high, leading into the Landwasser Tunnel.
The carriages’ pneumatic suspension and ergonomic seats ensure a comfortable ride, while the panoramic windows provide perfect views of the mesmerising scenery. And if you’re after even more comfort, you’re in luck, as all 1st and 2nd class cars have been completely renovated to celebrate the Glacier Express’s 90th birthday in 2020. The snazzy designs of the new cars have been based on the train’s popular Excellence Class seats, which already offered a touch of luxury and have now been further modernised via a wealth of new features introduced in the refurbishment. These include sleek surfaces made from classy materials like light oak and dark walnut, and a hi-spec customer information system that allows passengers to access video and audio content about the route on a phone or tablet, flagging up highlights of the journey as you travel.
Anyone looking to grab Instagram-worthy pics (i.e. everyone on the train) will love the new panoramic windows that open at the touch of a button, providing prime photo opportunities without needing to worry about pesky window glare.
All-important practicalities have also been boosted. Sockets, cup holders and bottle holders will be available next to all tables, luggage racks will be made bigger and shiny new washbasin walls built from Rhine Valley quartzite will be added.
When it’s time to eat – and drink – the benefits of the Excellence Class seats will come in handy. As well as a bar in the carriage, passengers can make the most of a concierge service and even take another epic journey of the gastronomic kind, thanks to a five-course gourmet menu, including wines to accompany, of course.
So, sit back and enjoy one of the finest and most scenic train journeys around in more comfort than ever before. You’ll savour every minute of those eight glorious hours.
Find out more and book your seat on this trip-of-a-lifetime at: www.glacierexpress.ch/en.