The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 10, Issue 3 (June 1, 1935)
Unique Swiss Railway
Unique Swiss Railway.
Certain of the European railways are fortunate in covering territory as yet unconquered by the road carrier and the private motor-car. The Swiss lines present several examples of this character, among which may be named the picturesque Montreux - Bernese Oberland Railway. This remarkable line runs from Montreux, near Lausanne, to Interlaken, with forward connections to beautiful Lucerne. Operated by a private company, the Montreux-Bernese Oberland Railway is electrified throughout. Three-phase current at 8,000 volts, 50 cycles, is generated in the company's power plant, and this is transformed to 750 volts in six sub-stations. Electric locomotives haul trains over the route at speeds up to 45 m.p.h., and some of the most luxurious of passenger stock is employed in the tourist season now in full swing.
Obstacles to fast running everywhere abound on this unique Alpine line. Tunnels, bridges, viaducts and cuttings are constantly met with, while at vulnerable points special protective works have been built to combat the winter danger from falling avalanches. In the summer season, travel over the Montreux-Bernese Oberland line is a sheer delight. Wonderful Alpine panoramas meet the eye on every side, while the tiny roadside stations are a picture of cleanliness and floral beauty.