While most of us spend our lives rushing from A to B, taking a ride on the ‘slowest express train in the world’ is a chance to really relax, unwind and drink in the most incredible views during eight blissful hours.
A true ‘bucket-list experience’, the Glacier Express will take your clients on an awe-inspiring 180-mile ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps, travelling at a leisurely 24mph between two of Europe’s most exclusive mountain resorts.
From Zermatt, which lies at the foot of the mighty Matterhorn, this historic train climbs up and over the Swiss Alps, passing over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, to reach St Moritz.
As it winds its way through narrow valleys and lush meadows, passengers are treated to some jaw-dropping sites, such as the Rhine Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of Switzerland, and dramatic, rugged rock formations.
With the help of ingenious rack-and-pinon technology, the Glacier Express climbs slowly to the highest point of the route, the Oberalp Pass that sits at a lofty 6,670 feet above sea level, giving passengers unforgettable views of soaring peaks and glacial valleys, all blanketed in pristine layers of snow in the winter.
A real highlight for railway enthusiasts is the vertiginous 65-metre high five-pillared Landwasser Viaduct, an impressive feat of engineering, which leads straight into the Landwasser Tunnel.
Talking of engineering, the entire Rhaetian Railway, of which the Glacier Express is part, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008 in recognition of its pioneering design, which blends harmoniously into its splendid surroundings.
Large panoramic windows ensure every single passenger has a clear view of the scenery, as the train passes slowly through postcard pretty Alpine villages, such as Andermatt and Chur, towards St Moritz.
From their seat, they’ll enjoy a delicious three-course meal or a range of à la carte options, including traditional and seasonal dishes, all of which are freshly prepared in the on-board kitchen. Local wines from Graubunden and Valais provide the perfect accompaniment to the meal.
The most sought-after seats in Switzerland
Launched in 2019, Excellence Class (below), provided in an exclusive carriage, offers your clients an even greater feast for the senses.
All passengers are given a window seat, which is, in fact, an ultra-comfort lounge chair with panoramic views. There is also a Glacier Bar, providing the perfect place for an aperitif, plus a concierge service and an on-board entertainment system.
A five-course gourmet menu, featuring dishes such as smoked trout, beef tenderloin, warm chocolate cake and a Swiss cheese platter is served at the seat, with Champagne and fine wines, as the train makes its leisurely journey through the Alps.
Can there be a better way to travel? For more information, go to Glacier Express (rhb.ch)