Journey to Schynige Platte: A Vintage Railway & Alpine Wonderland in Switzerland’s Bernese Highlands

Perched high above Interlaken, the **Schynige Platte Railway** and its enchanting **Alpine Garden** offer a nostalgic escape into Switzerland’s untamed beauty. This iconic duo—a century-old cogwheel train and a botanical paradise—promises breathtaking vistas, floral splendor, and a dash of old-world charm. Let’s embark on this alpine adventure! ### **The Schynige Platte Railway: A Ride Through Time** **History & Nostalgia** Since 1893, the Schynige Platte Railway has chugged up the mountainside from Wilderswil, its vintage wooden carriages and open-air platforms evoking the golden age of Swiss tourism. Built as a feat of engineering, the 7.6 km route climbs 1,423 meters, traversing meadows, cliffs, and forests with gradients up to 25%. Today, it remains one of Switzerland’s last remaining cogwheel trains with original carriages—a moving museum on rails. **The Scenic Journey** The 50-minute ride is as much a highlight as the destination. Passengers are treated to unfolding panoramas of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with the iconic trio of **Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau** dominating the skyline. Keep your camera ready for wildflower-dotted slopes and the occasional cowbell symphony! ### **Schynige Platte Alpine Garden: A Botanical Masterpiece** **Flora of the Alps** At 1,967 meters, the **Alpine Garden** (Alpengarten) is one of Europe’s oldest high-altitude botanical gardens. Founded in 1928, it showcases over 600 species of alpine plants, meticulously curated across themed sections: - **Swiss Native Plants**: Edelweiss, gentians, and alpine roses burst into color from June to September. - **Rock Gardens**: Mimicking natural habitats, these displays highlight hardy blooms clinging to rugged terrain. - **Conservation Efforts**: Learn about efforts to protect endangered species like the glacier buttercup. **A Walk Among Blooms** Stroll the garden’s winding paths, where interpretive signs explain plant adaptations to harsh alpine climates. Don’t miss the “Blüemlisalp” section, named after the nearby glacial peak, or the fragrant herb garden. ### **Beyond the Garden: Hikes, Views & Swiss Traditions** 1. **Panorama Trail** A gentle 1.5-hour loop around Schynige Platte rewards hikers with 360° views of the Jungfrau region. Spot marmots, ibex, and even paragliders soaring above the Lütschine Valley. 2. **Classic Photo Spots** - The **viewing platform** near the mountain hotel offers postcard-perfect shots of the Jungfrau massif. - The iconic **“Schynige Platte” sign** with the Eiger in the background (a must for Instagram!). 3. **Traditional Mountain Culture** Visit the **museum** at the summit station to see historic railway artifacts or catch live alphorn performances on summer afternoons.