Switzerland is celebrating the 100th anniversary of one of its most iconic mountain railways this weekend, as historic steam trains once again carry passengers through the spectacular landscapes of the Swiss Alps. The Furka Steam Railway is marking the milestone with special heritage services and anniversary events running from July 3 throughout the weekend.

The Furka Pass, located 2,431 metres above sea level, is among Switzerland’s highest Alpine crossings and is famous for its winding mountain roads. It also gained international recognition after featuring in the 1964 James Bond film Goldfinger, starring Sean Connery. Long before its Hollywood appearance, however, the route made railway history when the first steam train crossed the pass on July 3, 1926.

A Historic Alpine Railway

For decades, the railway served as an important transport link between the Swiss cantons of Uri and Valais. The line remained in regular operation until the early 1980s, when a new base tunnel diverted rail traffic away from the mountain route, leading to its closure.

Rather than allowing the railway to disappear, hundreds of volunteers stepped in to preserve it. Often referred to as the railway’s “pioneers,” they spent years rebuilding tracks, restoring steam locomotives and bringing the historic line back to life.

The first section of the heritage railway reopened in 1992, while the full 18-kilometre route between Realp and Oberwald was restored in 2010.

One of Switzerland’s Most Scenic Train Journeys

Today, the Furka Steam Railway operates exclusively during the summer season, offering visitors a nostalgic journey aboard restored vintage carriages through some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking Alpine scenery.

Passengers travel past mountain rivers, alpine meadows, green pastures and snow-covered peaks that remain visible even during the summer months. The one-way journey takes just under two and a half hours.

One-way tickets start from CHF 46 (approximately US$57), making the railway one of Switzerland’s most distinctive heritage rail experiences.

Centenary Celebrations Continue This Weekend

The 100th anniversary celebrations began on July 3 and continue throughout the weekend, with special steam train operations commemorating a century since the first train crossed the Furka Pass.

The anniversary highlights not only the railway’s historical importance but also the remarkable volunteer effort that preserved one of Switzerland’s best-loved mountain railways for future generations.

Photo:  Erich Westendarp