belle epoque train swiss travel pass

Swiss Travel Pass, GoldenPass Belle Epoque valid?

Is the Golden pass Belle epoque train covered by the Swiss travel pass? And if so is it possible to reserve a seat only?

Yes. It is not necessary to reserve a seat

Hi Eidejohans,

Welcome to MySwissAlps. Wonderful to hear you are planning to travel on the GoldenPass Belle Epoque train.

Yes, the Belle Epoque is covered with your Swiss Travel Pass. More details can be found here for both:

• https://www.myswissalps.com/goldenpass
• https://www.myswissalps.com/swisstravelpass/validity

By checking on the timetable, https://www.myswissalps.com/timetable , please use Zweisimmen as a 'via' station. Between Zweisimmen and Montreux, trains labeled 'PE' are the official GoldenPass trains. If you click on them they are specified as "GoldenPass Belle Epoque" or "GoldenPass Panoramic". This way, you can ensure you take the Belle Epoque :-)

Reservations can be made but are not necessary, though you may opt to do so during peak season, more details here:

• https://www.myswissalps.com/goldenpass/tickets

Kind regards,

Thank you for reply. I will be traveling on a Sunday in March is that peak season or not? Ie should I reserve a seat? Also do you know what the class upgrade cost is from 2nd to 1st class?

No, March is not peak season on the MOB railway. The Belle Epoque train runs twice per day each way, but a word of warning, only the carriages (of which some are actually replicas not originals) are 'topped and tailed' by brand new power coaches so it doesn't have the external appearance of a fully historic train.

The belle epoque train is 12.02 and 17.02 from Zweisimmen westbound; 09.50 and 14.50 from Montreux eastbound

Hello Eidejohans,

Agree, March is not peak season, reservations are not necessary but should you feel you would like to guarantee a seat, of course, make a reservation. The cost of an upgrade is usually half the price of the difference between 1st and 2nd class. More information on train upgrades here; https://www.myswissalps.com/train/practical/2nd1stclass

For yourself, as you would have the Swiss Travel Pass, the cost of the upgrade would be CHF12.50. Kind regards,

If you are travelling from Interlaken Ost, you can catch the 9:08 GoldenPass Express - the new train that started in Dec 2022. You will arrive at Zweisimmen at 10:20, and then at 12:02 you can get on the Belle Epoque. This way, you will have ridden a dream combination of trains! :-)

Unfortunately we don’t land in Switzerland till 10.10am & is the only day we can do the Belle epoque due to other travel plans. We do have reservations on Glacier express tho so hopefully that will make up for it.

Thank you Ventsislav for your contribution.

Eidejohans, I am sure you will have a wonderful and memorable trip.

All the best and safe travels.

I don't know about the rest of your itinerary, but this information makes it clear that you couldn't reach the MOB 'Belle Epoque' train after landing at Zurich so late in the morning.

However you could travel direct from Zurich to Spiez if you want to travel the real Golden Pass from Zwiesimmen to Montreux

We land in Geneva so only 1 hour train to Montreux from there.

OK - this discussion got sidetracked so it was not clear you were travelling Eastbound. In that case - barring late flight arrival in Geneva - you should easily be able to get to Montreux in time for the 14.50 Belle Epoque train to Zweisimmen.

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Complete Guide To Riding the Belle Epoque Train in Switzerland

The Belle Epoque is part of the Golden Pass route in Switzerland . It is a specialized train that takes you on the part of the journey from Montreux to Zweisimmen. While this route is covered by normal Golden Pass trains, if you are going to ride this section, we recommend the Belle Epoque. It is a train like no other and will make you feel like you are on an old grand Orient Express rail journey.

• 1 The Belle Epoque Route
• 2 Belle Epoque Train Tickets
• 3 Belle Epoque 1st Class vs 2nd Class
• 4 Which side of the Belle Epoque should you sit
• 5 Which section of the Golden Pass train is the best
• 6 Belle Epoque Train Stations
• 7 Details of the Belle Epoque Train
• 8 Belle Epoque Best Views

The Belle Epoque Route

The Belle Epoque travels from Zweisimmen to Montreux in 2 hours and 9 minutes. Trains leave every hour but only 2 trains per day are the Belle Epoque version, the rest are standard Golden Pass Panorama trains.

The easiest way to see which of the trains will be the Belle Epoque version is to pull up the SBB app on your phone and enter the 2 stations into the timetable. You’ll see a list of all the trains. Clicking on the individual trains will show you which train it will be.

Belle Epoque Train Tickets

Belle Epoque tickets cost CHF 58 for 1st class and CHF 33 for 2nd class. This ride is also included in the Swiss Pass, if you have purchased it. We recommend buying the Swiss Pass if you’ll be doing a fair number of trains in Switzerland. Your Swiss Pass is good for the class you purchased, but you can upgrade from 2nd class to 1st class in the app for CHF 25, which is worth it.

Tickets are available in the app or at the station before you get on the train. You should get your tickets in the app ahead of time though, as your connecting train might arrive just minutes before you need to get on the Belle Epoque.

Seat reservations are not needed on the Belle Epoque. We tried to make them before getting on the train, but it wasn’t possible. When we arrived at the station we asked if they would be needed, and they kind of laughed and said, “No, you can just walk on.” As it turns out, since we were there in February, the train was almost empty the whole way.

Belle Epoque 1st Class vs 2nd Class

The upgrade to 1st class is worth the price on the Belle Epoque Golden Pass route. At only CHF 25, you’ll get a chance to ride in a train that is unlike any other you’ve been in before. While 2nd class is also nice, this is a good spot to make a small upgrade if you haven’t gotten the 1st class Swiss Pass.

In 1st class on the Belle Epoque, the seats are wider and more luxurious, and there are 3 seats in a row instead of the 4 seats in 2nd class. Both classes will have great views out of the windows.

In addition to having a bigger seat, the other advantage to 1st class for a couple is they can sit in a private section of 2 with a table on one side of the train.

Which side of the Belle Epoque should you sit

Traveling from Zweisimmen to Montreux, you should sit on the right side of the Golden Pass Belle Epoque train. Views are great out of both sides, and you can switch sides if your train isn’t busy as it is open seating.

Which section of the Golden Pass train is the best

The section from Zweisimmen to Montreux is the best part of the Golden Pass train route in Switzerland. This section features the Belle Epoque and the VIP Panorama cars to enjoy the ride. These two types of trains are so unique, you might consider doing this route both ways to enjoy both the Belle Epoque and the VIP Panorama seats on the Golden Pass.

Belle Epoque Train Stations

The Belle Epoque calls Zweisimmen and Montreux as it’s end stations. Both are smaller stations that are easy to navigate and quick to get around.

The Montreux station has a cafe that serves food, and is a nice place to wait for your train indoors. If you’d like to explore the city, it is easily reachable on foot.

The station in Zweisimmen is staffed, but smaller, and is also located directly in town. There isn’t as much to see in Zweisimmen, so if you get there early you might end up just waiting at the station.

In your rush to get on the train and see the glorious interior, don’t run by the outside and miss the understated but regal look of the carriage. This train is stunning both inside and out. We love the blue and yellow color scheme that adorns the outside of the train.

Details of the Belle Epoque Train

The fine details of the train interior on the Belle Epoque will amaze most train travelers. We loved the entire look of the coach. There are nets to hold items behind each seat as well as overhead net shelfs and hooks for bags and coats. The wooden tables fold up to provide either more space, or an extended surface.

The seats have very pretty numbers on the headrests, and we could spend all day looking at the wood paneling on the ceiling of the train.

A train that looks this old doesn’t have to act old, and so, surprisingly, there are power outlets on the Belle Epoque. Outlets where you can charge your phone or other devices are located under the overhead shelf. They are in somewhat of an odd place, but most passengers are just happy to have them if need be.

The Belle Epoque might be the most surprising train in Switzerland, or all of Europe. The low price makes you think it might not be a special experience, but once on board you’ll quickly realize you are in for a treat. Not only is the train spectacular to ride, the views are amazing on the route.

Belle Epoque Best Views

The best views on the Belle Epoque are descending into Montreux. While you descend on a series of switchbacks you’ll have uninterrupted views of Lake Geneva.

Robert Marmion

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GOLDENPASS EXPRESS

The goldenpass express seamlessly connects interlaken and montreux.

Over a century in the making, travelers can now journey from Montreux, through Gstaad, to Interlaken without switching trains. The innovative adjustable gauge of the new  GoldenPass Express  ensures a seamless voyage from the Vaud Riviera, across the Pays-d’Enhaut, to the towering Bernese Alps in just three hours.

The route is  fully included in the   Swiss Travel Pass . In addition to the  GoldenPass Express , this comprehensive guide also explores the captivating journeys on the  GoldenPass Panoramic and GoldenPass Belle Époque , ensuring you make the most of your Swiss rail adventure.

The GoldenPass Express is a must-do for anyone visiting Switzerland, Why?

Seamless Travel Experience:

The  GoldenPass Express  offers an improved, seamless journey on one of Switzerland’s most picturesque train routes. It connects Interlaken with Montreux up to four times a day, providing breathtaking views of the panorama.

Iconic Journey:

The journey on the  GoldenPass Express  encompasses world-famous places across three regions – Interlaken, Gstaad, Château-d’Oex, Montbovon, and Montreux, each offering unique attractions and experiences.

Prestige Class:

The centerpiece of the new train is the “ Prestige ” class, offering plenty of privacy, maximum comfort in a small compartment, and exceptional culinary options. Features include luxurious heated leather seats that can rotate 180 degrees and elevated positioning for a better view of the scenery.

Culinary Delights:

Travelers can pre-order local and international delicacies to enjoy during the journey. Options range from champagne and fine caviar to traditional and vegetarian apéro-plates.

Swiss Innovation:

The  GoldenPass Express  represents a Swiss masterstroke in railway innovation, solving a century-old challenge of connecting Interlaken and Montreux without changing trains, through the introduction of adjustable bogies.

The entire trip lasts for approximately 3 hours 15 minutes, combining stunning views with unrivaled comfort to make the journey as spectacular as the destination itself.

Swiss Travel Pass:

The route is  fully included in the   Swiss Travel Pass , though seat reservations must be paid for separately.

Secure your Swiss Travel Pass today  and reserve your seat on the  GoldenPass Express  through their website . The Swiss Travel Pass offers complimentary travel, with your only expense being the seat reservation fee.

How to Book GoldenPass Express/Prices

Due to limited seating capacity, reservations are mandatory in the “ Prestige ” class and recommended for 1st and 2nd class travel, with a surcharge in addition to the valid ticket for the selected travel class.

GoldenPass Express Timetable:

Operates throughout the year / Daily departures from both Montreux and Interlaken Ost.  Timetable .

Discovering the Full GoldenPass Experience: A Tapestry of Swiss Scenery

While the  GoldenPass Express  stands out for its unique features, the  complete GoldenPass journey offers an expansive and unparalleled experience through Switzerland’s diverse landscapes. The route unfolds in three magnificent sections:

Lucerne to Interlaken Ost – Luzern – Interlaken Express : Starting from Lucerne, this train offers captivating views of the Pilatus mountain and Lake Lucerne, passing through Sarnersee and Lungernsee. It descends via the Brünig Pass to Meiringen, finally reaching Interlaken Ost by Lake Brienz. For the best lake views, choose a right-side seat. Covered by the Swiss Travel Pass.

Interlaken Ost to Zweisimmen: Travel alongside the Aare River to Spiez by Lake Thun, with striking views of Mount Niesen. The journey through the Simmen valley showcases green landscapes and picturesque villages. For optimal Lake Thun views, opt for a right-side seat.

Zweisimmen to Montreux – GoldenPass Panoramic Train and GoldenPass Bell Epoque : From Saanenmöser’s peak, pass through Gstaad, entering French-speaking Switzerland. The route winds through valleys to Les Avants, concluding with a stunning Lake Geneva panorama in Montreux. For the best view, choose the right side.

In conclusion, while the GoldenPass Express offers a direct, state-of-the-art connection, the classic GoldenPass Line , split into these three sections, is an experience in its own right, piecing together Switzerland’s cultural and natural mosaic in an unforgettable way.

Q: Is the GoldenPass Line train covered by the Swiss Travel Pass?

Q: what is the difference between 1st class and 2nd class on the goldenpass line, q: can i stop at towns along the goldenpass line and continue my journey later.

More on GoldenPass Express FAQs

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Is the goldenPass Belle Epoque included in the swiss travel pass

Hi hasencio

Yes, the GoldenPass Belle Epoque is included in the Swiss Travel Pass (STP). Please note, that it is recommended to make a seat reservation for CHF 9.00 per seat. The seat reservation is not included in the STP. You can make the reservation at the Golden Pass MOB Website: https://journey.mob.ch/en/routing

I wish you a stunning stay in Switzerland!

Best regards, uebe

GoldenPass Belle-Epoque

Experience a romantic atmosphere with unrivalled comfort and charm, a unique experience.

It’s a train, but what a train it is! The Belle Époque carriages combine comfort, elegance and romance. A setting worthy of the Orient Express that will make your journey between Montreux and Zweisimmen a unique experience.

Perfect for weddings, birthdays and group events.

For groups of 10 people or more, please send your requests via the “Offer for groups” form at least 10 days before the date of your trip.

Informations

The GoldenPass Belle Epoque runs every day without extra charge:

From Montreux 09:50 and 14:50 From Zweisimmen 12:02 and 17:02

Except on the following dates: 17.04/08.05/29.05/19.06/10.07/31.07/21.08/11.09/02.10/23.10/13.11/04.12

Reservation is not mandatory, but recommended. Choose the best seat by booking online on our  webshop .

The catering service on board is only available for groups with prior reservation, see the form “Offer for groups”.

The updated price list is available  here .

Grand Train Tour

Your trip will be an emotional moment, montreux - gstaad - zweisimmen - lenk i.s. line, a unique trip famous all over the world.

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Fancy a little time travel? On the occasion of our first wedding anniversary, we wanted to treat ourselves to something special and decided to take a ride on the legendary Belle Époque Bahn. We have long been fascinated by romantic train journeys that take us back to the fascinating era of the Belle Époque for a moment. The historic-looking train is a replica of the legendary Golden Mountain Pullman Express. At that time, this luxury train ran between Montreux and Zweisimmen and experienced a fitting renaissance with the Belle Epoque train.

The Golden Pass Line – Belle Époque Train & more

The trains of the Golden Pass Line operate along a 210 km route from Lucerne to Lake Geneva in Montreux. The route runs from Lucerne along Lake Lucerne and passes the stations of Interlaken, Zweisimmen, Gstaad and Chateau d'Oex before finally ending in Montreux.

Where exactly does the Belle Époque train depart from? The Belle Époque Bahn route

The most impressive section of the route is between Zweisimmen and Montreux. And from Zweisimmen, the Belle Époque train and the gold-colored panorama train also run. Only the regular trains of the Swiss railway network run to Zweisimmen. So if you want to ride the Belle Époque Bahn, make sure you are on the right section of the route. The journey from Zweisimmen to Montreux takes just under two hours (1h45). If you have several days, you can visit picturesque places like Gstaad or the Lac du Vernex in Rossinière before Montreux.

Golden Pass line timetable

The trains on the Golden Pass line run at relatively short, regular intervals, so that you can usually continue every one to one and a half hours. The best thing about it: With the regular train ticket you can travel on all trains on the route. Despite the normal train ticket, you can also travel on the Belle Époque Bahn and enjoy a touch of the extravagant Orient Express feeling. Even the arrival of the Belle Époque Bahn is a small sensation and attracts numerous spectators who don't miss the opportunity to take a few photos.

Belle Époque Bahn: Seats, Reservation & Booking

When booking, we first had to fiddle around a bit, because there are several sites where you can book train tickets for the Belle Époque Bahn. But on some pages, the departure times do not state which train it is. If you want to take the Belle Époque train at a specific time, we recommend you go directly to the MOB page to book. Because here you can see what kind of trains are leaving when and plan your trip accordingly. You can also reserve seats directly on this page.

From a practical point of view, however, the site is unfortunately only semi-optimal, it constantly hangs or error messages appear. So patience was required, but we still managed to do it. Unfortunately, on our outward journey from Zweisimmen to Montreux, all the seats in first class were already booked, so we reserved seats in second class for CHF 9 each. In retrospect, however, we would not have needed the reservation at all, because there were enough free seats without a reservation.

Ride on the Belle Époque Bahn: prices & costs

The route from Zweisimmen to Montreux costs CHF 42 per person in second class including a reservation, or CHF 33 per person without a reservation. If you are from Switzerland and have a general subscription or the half-fare card, tickets start at just CHF 9. On the return trip we had the train almost entirely to ourselves and of course we didn't miss the opportunity to take a few photos of the first-class train compartment. As soon as you are there, you can also conveniently buy the train tickets from the machines.

The most important question: How does it feel to ride the Belle Époque train?

We felt a bit like the main characters of a historical novel before embarking on a great adventure. Already the arrival of the train is an experience. The route leads through picturesque landscapes that look exactly how you imagine Switzerland to be. We were amazed to see how quickly the landscape changed as we drove.

When Montreux was not far away, the picturesque and partly snow-covered mountain ranges were replaced by palm trees and almost a Mediterranean flair towards the end of the journey. The charming spa and jazz town of Montreux is located on the picturesque Lake Geneva, surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation. Oh, if only traveling by train could always be this nice! In general, train travel in Switzerland is very pleasant and relaxed. The trains are clean, cozy and comfortable.

Train romance in Switzerland: Which seat guarantees the best view?

Let's come to another exciting question: Which side of the seat offers the best view? To be honest, there is no "wrong" side of the seat. The landscape changes and so it is sometimes interesting to look out on one side and sometimes on the other side. But in summary, the left side in the direction of travel (from Zweisimmen to Montreux) is particularly scenic.

Specials – Chocolate Train GoldenPass MOB & Cheese Train GoldenPass Montreux–Château-d'Œx

In addition to the normal daily trips, there are also regular special trips such as the chocolate train with fine chocolate tasting and a subsequent visit to the Maison du Gruyèr cheese dairy and the «Maisons Cailler-Nestlé» chocolate factory. You can find more information and details here . If you're more after a fondue, it could be cheese train (the name alone says it all) be interesting for you. In the panorama train or the Belle Epoque train, you can travel from Montreux or Zweisimmen to Château-d'Oex. In "Le Chalet" you then have the opportunity to look over the shoulder of the cheese maker during the traditional production of cheese and then enjoy a delicious fondue.

Belle Époque Bahn for special occasions: marriage proposals, bachelor parties & birthday parties

We think that a ride on the Belle Époque Bahn is ideal for special occasions. Be it an extraordinary bachelor party, an unforgettable birthday party or even a romantic marriage proposal: the ambience is made for it! For us it was the perfect trip for our wedding anniversary.

You can find more romantic trips & travel ideas for special occasions under our heading Romantic trips .

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[…] the name of Switzerland stands. While we took the romantic Belle Époque train from Zweisimmen to Montreux in June for our wedding anniversary, I went to Basel in September and spent two weeks [...]

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GoldenPass Panoramic

Switzerland’s four language and cultural regions are one of the country’s best-known peculiarities. The journey with the GoldenPass Panoramic train links German-speaking and French-speaking Switzerland, making it possible to experience the change from one culture to another as a gradual process.

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The panoramic trains start their journey in Zweisimmen, and travel towards Montreux. One picturesque view follows the next, as if the passing landscape had been specially designed for the panoramic journey: cows grazing on lush green meadows, traditional wooden chalets and the tall peaks of the Alps in the background. But the best is saved until last. Shortly before reaching Montreux, you get a fantastic view of glittering Lake Geneva. As the train meanders down the hill at a leisurely pace, you will already start to feel the Mediterranean flair of the Lake Geneva region. Both the GoldenPass Panoramic and the GoldenPass Belle Epoque travel along a stretch of the former GoldenPass Line that’s part of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

Facilities available on the train

• Panorama carriages in both 1st and 2nd class
• All trains have low-floor entrances and wheelchair-accessible toilets. It is not possible to reserve a wheelchair space in advance. Trips must be registered via the SBB Rail Centre in Brig.
• Certain trains have cars with front-view VIP seats, although these can no longer be reserved in advance. A fee can be paid to staff on the train on the day of travel if such a carriage is available on the train used.
• Belle Epoque coaches in 1st and 2nd class
• Wooden chalet coach in 2nd class
• Low-floor access for travellers with reduced mobility only available in the standard passenger coaches in 2nd class. The Belle Epoque and the wooden chalet coaches are not wheelchair-accessible.

Food & drink

Golden Pass Panoramic

Year-round operation with hourly departures from Montreux and Zweisimmen. Departure times according to timetable:

• Zweisimmen – Montreux
• Montreux – Zweisimmen 

Golden Pass Belle Epoque

Year-round operation with daily departures from Montreux and Zweisimmen. Departure times as follows:

• From Montreux 09:50 and 14:50
• FromZweisimmen 12:02 and 17:02

Reservations and surcharges

• Aside from a valid ticket, there are no obligatory surcharges.
• Reservations for individual travellers, which cost CHF 9, are recommended due to the limited number of seats, but not required. Reservations can be made via mob.ch after the timetable change in December for the entire following calendar year.
• Seat reservations for groups of 10 or more people are mandatory and subject to a surcharge of CHF 7 per person.
• Allocation of seats for groups in 2nd class: 9 days before departure. 1st class seats are allocated on the train by the train staff. Contact: [email protected] or by phone: +41 (0)21 989 81 51

Tips for excursions in Montreux and the surrounding area

• Chocolate Train
• Chillon Castle
• Rochers-de-Naye (2,042m a.s.l.)

Download exciting and extensive information about the GoldenPass Panoramic, featuring highlights along with key facts and figures, here: PDF brochure

Discover the surroundings

Goldenpass line 2 days / 1 night.

from CHF 190.-

Glacier 3000

Schilthorn - piz gloria, luzern–interlaken express, advertisement, travel information: goldenpass line.

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The Rigi "the queen of the mountains" is a majestic mountain and impresses with an impressive panoramic view of 13 lakes. The "royal round trip" starts from Lucerne by boat to Vitznau. The cogwheel railway takes you to the Rigi at 1738 metres. A short climb takes you to the summit of Rigi Kulm. Return by cogwheel railway to Rigi Kaltbad, by cable car to Weggis and back by boat to Lucerne. » When: according to timetable. Duration: half day.

Enjoy a boat trip on lake Lucerne and a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. In Alpnachstad you will board the steepest cogwheel railway in the world to reach the summit. Then take the aerial cableway and the panoramic gondolas back to Kriens where you board the bus to go back to Lucerne. » When: according to timetable. Duration: half day.

From Lucerne the train takes you to the mountain monastery village Engelberg where you board the Titlis Xpress to Stand. From there the world's first revolving cable car Titlis Rotair takes you up to Mount Titlis. Visit the glacier cave, ride the Ice Flyer chairlift or get your thrills on the Titlis Cliff Walk. » When: according to timetable. Duration: half day.

From your first overnight in a hotel in Montreux you receive the Montreux Riviera Card. It includes free travel on public transportation within the range of validity MOBILIS (Montreux - Vevey region). You also get discounts on boat trips and mountain railways as well as on entrance tickets in museums and amusement parks. Discounts cannot be cumulated with other special offer.

Rochers-de-Naye has always been a popular destination for nature lovers and its main peak is 2042 m high. Once an hour, a rack railway waits at the Montreux train station, which climbs more than 1600 m of differences in altitude while passing fields, villages and forests. After about 50 minutes you reach the summit with all its possibilities for an unforgettable stay. » When: daily according to timetable. Duration: half day.

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Duration: 3 days / 2 nights

Duration: 6 days / 5 nights

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This vintage Swiss train might be the world’s most romantic rail journey

The GoldenPass Belle Époque service combines 1930s luxury with breathtaking views

It’s Valentine’s Day, so picture the hell out of this. You’re lounging back with all the fine wines and cheeses your heart desires, in an ornate vintage train with huge windows. Gliding through the Swiss countryside, you pass rolling grassy hills, snowy Alpine peaks and hundreds of absurdly pretty hamlets. Sounds pretty damn romantic, right?

That’s the GoldenPass Belle Époque : a dreamy route that runs between Montreux, a town on the shores of Lake Geneva, and Zweisimmen, a valley village and a gateway to Switzerland’s Gstaad resort region.

The line is inspired by the Golden Mountain Pullman Express trains from the 1930s, and combines old-style luxury with modern fittings and service. It’s named after the glitzy Belle Époque period of European history (circa 1870 to 1914), and incidentally, Montreux contains many glamorous palaces and hotels from that era.

Inside, the carriages are decorated with elegant wooden panelling, gold plating and plenty of chic furniture. One of the carriages even has a wine cellar where guests can sample some of the region’s finest bottles.

The two-hour Belle Époque route is included in the Swiss Travel Pass , and if you want to make sure you get a seat, we’d recommend booking online here . Happy travels!

Did you see  you can take a luxury champagne train from France to Italy this summer ?

• Ed Cunningham News Editor, Time Out UK and Time Out London

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The Belle Epoque Train-All you need to know!

The GoldenPass Belle Epoque train is definitely one of Switzerland’s most prestigious trains you can take. The interior design will make you feel like a 19th century royalty and the view to Lake Geneva and the mountains will hypnotize you.

Practical information:

• The Belle epoque train route is from Montreux to Zweisimmen and back.
• You need to make sure when you book your ticket that it’s the Belle Epoque train and not the GoldenPass panoramic. Since both trains do this route. The GoldenPass panoramic has a different interior with modern style and big windows.
• The ticket is included in your Day Pass if you have one.

Let’s talk prices:

So I took the train from Montreux to Gstaad in the 2nd Class , don’t be confused by the pics. I was simply way too excited by how pretty it is inside. That I literally had to take pics everywhere , and by the way it looks you can’t really blame me lol. In any case I was pretty happy with my 2nd Class choice as it turned to be just as beautiful as the 1st class. In my opinion the only difference was the size of the chairs but I’ll let you judge.

Prices 1st Class:

The route from Montreux to Zweisimmen: Half Fare 29.- / Normal 58.-

From Montreux to Gstaad: Half Fare 23.-/ Normal 46.-

Prices 2nd Class:

Montreux to Zweisimmen: Half Fare 16.50.- / Normal 33.-

Montreux to Gstaad: Half fare 13.-/ normal: 26.-

Notes: There is a possibility to reserve a seat but that’s an addition of 9 CHF. We went on a summer Saturday morning and it was pretty packed but we were lucky enough to get a seat. I’d say if you’re going during the week the chances of needing a reservation is low but on weekends it might be smart to keep it as an option.

The Belle Epoque Train’s Inspiration

The GoldenPass MOB Belle Epoque Train design is both romantic and retro styled. The coaches inspiration is by the Golden Mountain Pullman Express from the 1930s . It was a luxury train in the style of Orient Express that was short lived due to the economic crisis of the period.

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