ZERMATT, SEPT 26 – The Glacier Express in Switzerland is known as the slowest express train in the world, taking over eight hours to travel 290 kilometers through the Swiss Alps.
Citing reports Oddity Centralthe Glacier Express that connects the alpine resorts of Zermatt and St Moritz is not the same as the high-speed express trains that glide across Europe.
With an average speed of 36 km per hour, it lives up to its reputation as the world’s slowest express train, but its ridiculous speed is intentional.
Riding the Glacier Express isn’t about getting from point A to point B as quickly as possible; it is a scenic drive through the Swiss Alps that allows travelers to enjoy all the natural beauty that the beautiful region has to offer.
The train is equipped with large panoramic windows designed to provide an unobstructed view, allowing passengers to truly experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Although the slow speed of the Glacier Express is closely related to the beauty of the scenery, it does not tell the whole story.
The spectacular mountain pass traverses some of the most difficult terrain on the European continent, with steep slopes and sharp bends, requiring slower operating speeds to ensure passenger safety and comfort.
During its eight-hour journey, the world’s slowest express train passes through many spiral tunnels and crosses high bridges with a total of 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, and climbs to 6,670 feet above sea level.
In fact, the Glacier Express runs on a narrow gauge track that is not suitable for high speed.
If sitting on a train for eight hours sounds exhausting, you’ll be happy to hear that the dedicated express trains are very comfortable, with both first and second class carriages offering spacious and comfortable seats.
But if you’re looking for the ultimate experience, you might want to consider the more expensive excellence class, where passengers receive five-star service, including seven meals.
Interestingly, the Swiss Alps are also home to the highest railway station in the world, the Jungfraujoch. – Agency
