The scent of pine forests fills the air as our train begins its dramatic climb up Mount Pilatus, a majestic 2132-metre peak that towers over the picturesque landscapes near Lucerne. Through the open window, summer in Switzerland reveals itself in vibrant shades of green under a brilliant blue sky. To one side, determined hikers navigate a steep, sun-exposed trail, a sight that looks both rewarding and arduous in the 25-degree heat. Meanwhile, inside the carriage, we enjoy a cool breeze as the altitude rises, our ears gently popping on the approach to the summit.
The Engineering Marvel: Pilatus Railway
This journey is a highlight of the Globus Best of Switzerland tour, offering a thrilling alternative to coach travel. The Pilatus Railway is no ordinary train line. First launched as a steam railway in 1889, it was the brainchild of Zurich-born engineer Eduard Locher. It holds the global record as the world's steepest cog railway, with a breathtaking maximum gradient of 48 per cent on its 4.6-kilometre track, which was electrified in 1937.
Operating from May to late November, the service starts at Alpnachstad, a village at 464 metres above sea level. The ascent takes roughly 30 minutes, a stark contrast to the four-and-a-half-hour trek faced by hikers navigating alpine meadows, mountain streams, and rocky cliffs. For those travelling independently in 2026, a one-way adult fare is CHF42 (approximately $78.50).
A Summit of Breathtaking Panoramas and Royal History
Reaching the top of Pilatus unlocks a world of awe-inspiring vistas and activities. The primary draw is the staggering 360-degree panorama. Lake Lucerne shimmers far below, while the gaze stretches across the central Swiss Alps to the iconic, perpetually snow-capped trio: the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau. On exceptionally clear days, views can extend to France's Jura region and Germany's Black Forest.
Beyond the open-air terraces, visitors can explore the Dragon Path, a circuit named for the mountain's legendary mythical beast. This tunnel carved through rock features window-like openings framing dramatic views of lakes, forests, and peaks. The atmosphere is punctuated by the distant sight of paragliders, the swoop of birds of prey, and the gentle chime of cowbells from the slopes below.
The summit also holds a royal connection. Queen Victoria ascended Mount Pilatus on a pony in 1868, a highlight of her five-week Swiss holiday. Her visit, inspired by her late husband Prince Albert's fondness for the region, helped catalyse Switzerland's early tourism industry. Her legacy endures in the Pilatus Kulm hotel, which opened in 1890 and features a belle epoque room named in her honour. Travellers can even stay overnight at one of two summit hotels.
Descending with Adventure and Alpine Melodies
The descent offers its own adventure. From the Pilatus Kulm terminus—which also houses a visitor centre, gift shop, and cafe—we board a cable car. This service runs year-round, taking us partway down to Frakmuntegg. This midway station is a hub for thrill-seekers, offering activities like rope walks, zip lines, and a toboggan run. From there, gondolas connect to the town of Kriens, where a coach awaits. A one-way combined cable car and gondola ticket costs CHF40 (about $75) for adults.
As we prepared to queue for the cable car, a magical Swiss moment unfolded. A group of eight locals in matching grey shirts assembled on the terrace with enormous wooden alphorns. Their harmonious, resonant tunes pierced the crisp alpine air, providing a perfect, life-affirming soundtrack to our final moments absorbing the magnificent view.
Fact File: The Globus 9-day Best of Switzerland tour starts and ends in Zurich, runs from May to October 2026, and costs from $6740 per person (double occupancy). The Pilatus Railway will operate from May 11 to November 29, 2026.
