When you imagine Switzerland, it likely includes snowy peaks, bubbling fondue pots, and sweet villages nestled in peaceful Alpine landscapes. You may not think of trains, though, but this country’s incredible railway system is a wonder of engineering.
Embark on this exclusive private tour to see Switzerland’s alpine paradise by train. From the Sphinx Observatory to the enchanting Ice Palace, this customized experience blends scenic train travel with cultural insights and an immersive tour guide.
Train Rides
Whether you’re looking for a romantic ride to take in cascading waterfalls or an epic trip up the Matterhorn—the real-life version of the pyramidal mountain on your Toblerone package —there are plenty of options on this unforgettable journey. This private tour of the Swiss Alps seamlessly blends scenic train travel with cultural insights from a personal guide.
Switzerland’s incredible rail system offers awe-inspiring views around every turn—even on the short rides that transport you from one resort town to the next. With oversized windows and gorgeous curved ceilings, you’ll feel like you’re gliding through snowglobes the entire time.
For a trip you won’t soon forget, embark on the Glacier Express. This legendary scenic train ride traverses 291 tunnels and 3 cities from Zermatt to St. Moritz, offering breathtaking panoramic views of glaciers, dramatic peaks, villages, fields, rivers and stunning lakes.
If you’re able to upgrade your experience, you can hop aboard the Excellence Class of the Glacier Express between Zweisimmen and Montreux for a once-in-a-lifetime view of the Alps. This exclusive service provides a guaranteed window seat, a five-course regional menu and access to the Glacier Bar, making it the perfect way to elevate your Swiss Alps adventure.
You’ll also board the Gornergrat Railway to reach the peak of Jungfraujoch, where you can see the iconic mountain peaks that make up the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau—as well as the actual Matterhorn. With the crisp Alpine air brushing your cheeks, you’ll be akin to an intrepid explorer uncovering the hidden treasures of this alpine paradise. From the ethereal beauty of the Sphinx Observatory to the ice-blue halls of the Ice Palace, you’ll be immersed in alpine majesty at every turn.
Sphinx Observatory
At 11,716 feet, the Sphinx Observatory is one of the highest observatories in the world. It attracts scientists to conduct research, but visitors can peer through its windows for panoramic views of the Jungfrau, Monch, and Eiger peaks, the Great Aletsch Glacier, and snow-capped Alps. The observatory itself includes two large laboratories, a workshop, and two terraces for scientific experiments.
The Sphinx Observatory is accessible via a tunnel from the Jungfraujoch train station. Located on the summit of Jungfraujoch, the mountaintop is also home to an observation deck and the Ice Palace. The rail journey to the Sphinx Observatory is a wondrous experience in itself as travelers ride on the historic Jungfrau railway, passing through windows built into the mountains, and browsing the eccentric Eispalast (Ice Palace), where ice sculptures ranging from humans to automobiles are carved out of a chilly glacier.
The Sphinx Observatory can be found on the top of the Jungfraujoch, or “Top of Europe.” This incredible observatory offers breathtaking views of 29 four thousand-meter peaks and is a must-see destination for those visiting Switzerland. From the summit of Jungfraujoch, visitors can see all the way to Germany. The Sphinx Observatory is open year-round for visitors to experience the sky-high adventure.
Ice Palace
The glacier palace at Jungfraujoch is a sight to behold. Visitors can ride a lift 15 meters below the surface of the snow to explore ice sculptures and sites like a glacier crevasse. Cosy furs adorn ice benches, and visitors can snap some selfies and panoramic photos. Located at an altitude of 3,454 meters, the palace is open year-round, although hours vary.
The Ice Palace is an incredible attraction that makes the train trip a truly memorable experience. If you have the opportunity to visit, take it!
This is a one-of-a-kind place that you won’t find anywhere else. This manmade ice wonder has been in existence since 1931, and it is constantly being renewed. It’s worth the extra train ticket to visit.
At the top, you’ll find a winter wonderland where the snow never melts. Here, you can indulge in some activities, including skiing and snowboarding. You can also take a walk along the ice tunnel and admire the dazzling sculptures inside the Ice Palace.
Back at Alpine Majesty, guests can relax in a private Peak 7 neighborhood where mountain whispers meld with architectural artistry. The home’s five levels of post and beam glamorous log charm rise over 6,500 square feet, with plenty of privacy for everyone to enjoy. An oversized 3-car garage and driveway flat pad allow safe passage for guests between the home and outside transportation during the winter months (front or four wheel drive is required).
The second level features two luxury suites with King beds, private balconies and a private bathroom. The third level features a family room with large screen television and full wet bar. Kids will enjoy the bunk chambers, and the fourth level features a loft suite with a King bed, sitting area including a love seat and sleeper sofa and a luxurious moss rock and patina copper bath with Jacuzzi tub.
Unforgettable Outdoor Observation Deck
A trip to Switzerland isn’t complete without a ride aboard the historic Glacier Express, where the iconic train takes you over three alpine passes, across 291 bridges and tunnels, and into the gorge-like Engadine Valley. Whether it’s winter or summer, the glaciers, dramatic peaks, villages, forests, and stunning lakes are always breathtaking.
On this epic train adventure, you will enjoy first class seats with a table for two facing each other across the aisle. This configuration is designed to maximize the magnificent Swiss scenery, as each seat lines up perfectly next to large panoramic windows. The dining room service also includes both a set menu and à la carte options, cooked onboard by a local chef.
In the afternoon, take a short ride on the historic Mount Rigi Cogwheel Railway, an open-air steam railway built back in 1871. Climb among the peaks of the Queen of the Mountains and gaze out at lush green pastures (or blanketed in snow during the winter) as you chuggem along, breathing in the clean, fresh mountain air.
At the summit of Mount Schilthorn, perched 2,970 m above sea level, you will take in the jaw-dropping landscapes that made this Alpine paradise famous in James Bond’s sixth film, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Relive scenes from the movie at Bond World 007, dine in the revolving restaurant that was Blofeld’s headquarters, and get your thrills on a Thrill Walk.
This is an expedition where you will travel on trains, buses, boats and gondolas, and hike at altitudes above 10,000 feet (3,048 m). The excursion requires a moderate level of fitness; you must be able to climb stairs without handrails and walk for extended periods of time over uneven terrain.
Accessibility Accommodations
As the sun casts its rays over towering mountain peaks, it’s clear that this unique alpine odyssey is nothing short of extraordinary. This meticulously crafted journey offers travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in Switzerland’s spectacular natural beauty, captivating history and culture. This tour blends convenience, expertise and personalized exploration to create an unforgettable experience that will take your breath away.
This accessible guided train tour takes you through two impressive mountain villages, the Mannlichen and Grindelwald. The scenic railway winds through lush green meadows and charming Swiss village. Then the landscape transforms to reveal traditional chalets, luxury resorts and beautiful vineyards along the serene shores of Lake Geneva.
The train accommodations on this Alpine Majesty trip are among the finest in Europe. Each suite at Alpine Majesty has a private balcony with stunning views of the magnificent mountain scenery. A King bed and sitting area complete the luxurious interiors of these rooms. The spacious bathroom features a Jacuzzi tub and beautiful moss rock and patina copper accents.
Guests staying at Alpine Majesty are invited to enjoy gourmet meals in the on-site restaurant, including a delicious breakfast. You can also dine at Piz Gloria, the revolving restaurant that was used as Blofeld’s headquarters in the sixth Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
The best time to visit the Jungfraujoch is during the spring and summer when the weather is warm and inviting. During these seasons, it’s easier to access the ice cave since the snow melts and the landscape is full of color. You can also visit during the winter for a unique chance to see snow-covered mountain peaks and glaciers. This is a great option for snowsports enthusiasts and those who love the winter Alpine landscape.
