Few countries in the world can take pride in their rail networks with the same level of admiration as the Swiss.  Switzerland has long been known for its stunning landscapes, some of which are most enjoyably seen from the comfort of a First Class seat on board one of the country’s premium panoramic trains,  explicitly designed for taking in the views.  With extra-large windows on such trains as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express, the outdoors is readily appreciated.  Taking the rail experience one level higher—literally—is the GoldenPass train, where special seats right at the very front of the train above the driver’s compartment make for an especially exhilarating, and accelerating, experience.

Lake Lucerne Navigation Company’s splendid paddle steamer Uri

It is not necessary to take a special train in Switzerland to enjoy rail travel at its best.  The Swiss transport network is exceptionally well integrated, enabling visitors and locals alike to reach virtually every city, town, and village in the country by train or bus.  The Swiss Travel Pass encompasses both these modes of transport, as well as special panoramic trains, mountain trains that travel up and down the country’s famous peaks, and even the urban transport networks of cities once the destination is reached.  Perhaps the most exciting options of all for visitors are rides on the lake boats that are also included with the Pass; few places in Switzerland encapsulate the Swiss experience as profoundly as a ride on one of Lake Lucerne Navigation Company‘s paddle steamers in one of the country’s most beautiful regions.  Boat services on Lake Geneva, Lake Lugano, and several other bodies of water are also included.

Anyone who has already enjoyed the benefits of a Swiss Travel Pass can attest to its usefulness for elevating ease of travel to a fine art.  A country whose museums are replete with fantastic art, indeed, much of which is rarely seen outside the country, Switzerland, as a cultural destination, is often overlooked when its landscapes and fondue command so much attention.  The world-famous Art Basel fair may be taking place this week in the city for which it is named, but Switzerland’s rich repository of art and history can be visited throughout the country, throughout the year.  From the extraordinary displays in Zurich’s enormous National Museum to Montreux’s Chillon Castle by way of the Picassos of Lucerne’s Rosengart Collection and the extraordinary Collegiate Library in St Gallen, it is no simpler than flashing the Swiss Travel Pass to gain entry into more than 500 museums across the country.

Available in a variety of configurations to suit the individual traveller’s needs and preferences, a Swiss Travel Pass can be valid for First or Second Class and may last from 3 to 15 days in duration.  Along with helpful information for planning a visit to the centre of Europe, Swiss Travel Passes can be obtained in Australia from Switzerland Tourism’s office in Sydney.

by Robert La Bua – Global Travel Connoisseur

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