Are you looking for an original idea for your next holiday? I recommend ten wonderful destinations that can be reached directly by train in the Alps
From Germany to Slovenia, passing through Austria and Italy, experience the magic of train stations, amid the noise of the trains on the tracks and the chatter of tourists and commuters! It is even more magical, arriving in the most beautiful places of the Alps without the stress of traffic and many hours at the wheel. So pack your bags, grab a good book, and sit comfortably on a chair, possibly by the window… the journey is served! Next stop…
1. Interlaken – Switzerland
In the heart of the Bernese Oberland, in the Jungfrau region, surrounded by the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau mountains, meet the beautiful Pearl of Interlaken, easily accessible from all the Swiss cities with regional trains, Intercity and Eurocity. From here you can easily get around by bus and train in the whole Jungfrau region and explore the magnificent alpine valleys, ideal for those who love trekking.
Where to stay: Alphotel Eiger, ideal for excursions in the Jungfrau region!
2. Les Diablerets – Switzerland
At 1200m of altitude, between Lake Geneva and Gstaad, lies this cozy mountain village, ideal for staying in nature and practice outdoor activities, from hiking to climbing, from canyoning to paragliding. Nearby, wonderful ski areas and many toboggan runs are waiting for wonderful holidays in the snow. This village, where you can still feel the mountain tradition, is easily reached by train. Direct lines depart from the major Swiss cities and arrive in Aigle, from where it continues with convenient connections, along the line Aigle – Sépey – Les Diablerets, crossing picturesque valleys.
3. Bad Reichenhall – Germany
Bad Reichenhall is a picturesque town in southern Germany, known for its thermal baths Rupertus, ideal place for a holiday of relaxation and wellness. But this Pearl also offers charming trekking paths and an extensive network of bike paths, to enjoy the beautiful landscapes! The city is easily accessible by train, thanks to its central location and many railway lines that surround it.
Where to stay: Hotel Haus Amberger, rooms and apartments with views of the mountains!
4. Neukirchen – Austria
At the foot of the Grosvenediger, in Hohe Tauern Natural Park, surrounded peaks over 3000m and fascinating glaciers, lies the Alpine Pearl of Neukirchen. Here you will find so much to do, both in summer and winter, in a territory rich in natural beauty and tradition. Leave your car in the garage you take advantage of the Pinzgau regional railway, which connects the railway station Zell am See to Neukirchen am Großvenediger.
Where to stay: Wanderhotel Gassner, for a stay in the scent of wood.
5. Hinterstoder – Austria
Among the Alps in Austria, at the foot of the Totes Gebirge and the unspoilt nature of its valleys, lies this Pearl, with its small churches with rounded roofs and its pretty wooden cottages. Explore the Stoder valley with cross-country skis, along the 120 km of trails crossing it. Hinterstoder train station is easily accessible from the surrounding Swiss cities. From here, frequent bus services will take you to the village, located about 12 km. The guest card Pyhrn-Priel Card will make even the simplest movements.
Where to stay: Berghof Sturmgut, for a perfect holiday in the snow!
6. Bled – Slovenia
In the heart of the Triglav National Park, nestled along the banks of a freshwater lake, lies the pearl of Bled, surrounded by peaks that only a few people know. It is here that the chain of the Alps begins! Thanks to the richness of the landscape, Bled is ideal if you like water sports if you are looking for exciting trekking routes. Bled is easily accessible by train. There are two railway stations: the Lesce-Bled railway station (4 km from the city center), situated on the international railway Monaco-Salzburg-Villach-Ljubljana and the national line Jesenice-Ljubljana. The Bled Jezero station (3 km from the city center) is on the line Villach-Jesenice-Nova Gorica-Gorizia and on the national line Jesenice-Nova Gorica.
7. Cogne – Italy
A pretty alpine village, at the foot of the Gran Paradiso, surrounded by the nature of the oldest Natural Park in Italy. This is an untouched corner of the Valle d’Aosta, where the road ends and gives space to trails and cross-country skiing paths, which penetrate through woods and streams. Paradise of ice climbing and hiking, the valley is populated in summer as in winter. Not to be missed are the traditional dishes to be enjoyed in the warm wood and stone huts. Cogne is easily reached by public transport: by train to Aosta, and then from there, we enter the valley by bus.
Where to stay: Hotel du Grand Paradis, ancient charm, and typical Alpine atmosphere!
8. Limone Piemonte – Italy
This Pearl is a beautiful destination, located at 1000m of altitude, at the border with France and the exclusive resort of Nice and Monaco. From here you can explore the Maritime Alps or enjoy skiing in the surrounding areas. The train station, on the international railway Turin-Cuneo-Ventimiglia, is located directly in the center of Limone Piemonte.
Where to stay: Hotel Bragard, quality, and services, feel at home!
9. Werfenweng – Austria
This is the Pearl of electric mobility. This charming Austrian village in Salzburg area is easily reached by train, arriving to Bischofshofen station and then using the convenient service of the Werfenweng-Shuttle, free for owners of SAMO-Card. Exploring Werfenweng and the surrounding area is easy using bicycles, motorcycles and electric cars, waiting for you here for free! There are spacious areas for cross-country and track skiing, ideal for a perfect holiday in the snow and great adventures on dogsledges!
Where to stay: B&B Steinerhof, in the mountains of Salzburg.
10. Malles – Italy
Malles is a beautiful Pearl in Venosta Valley, located on the valley floor surrounded by apple orchards and snowy peaks. The train arrives from Merano at the station in the city-center, passing through beautiful landscapes. Come to enjoy the warm hospitality of South Tyrol! After a day spent in nature, enjoy the saunas and the delicious local dishes.
Where to stay: Alpin & Relax Hotel Das Gerstl, an elegant family-run hotel.
Cover image: Matteo Galli via Flickr