Riding the GoldenPass Train: From Zweisimmen to Montreux
Travelling through Switzerland by train isn’t just a way to get from A to B — it’s an experience in its own right. One of the most beautiful routes in the country is the GoldenPass Line, and our journey from Zweisimmen to Montreux was nothing short of spectacular.
What Is the GoldenPass Line?
The GoldenPass Line is a scenic rail route that connects central Switzerland to Lake Geneva, crossing some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes along the way. Rather than being a single train, it’s a branded panoramic route made up of several connecting services, designed specifically for travellers who want to soak up the views.
The full GoldenPass route runs between Lucerne and Montreux, passing through:
- Lucerne
- Interlaken
- Zweisimmen
- Gstaad
- Montreux
Each section has its own character, from alpine lakes and mountain passes to glamorous resort towns.
The Zweisimmen to Montreux Journey
Our journey began in Zweisimmen, a charming alpine town where the landscape starts to soften from high peaks into rolling meadows. From here, the train winds through the Bernese Oberland, passing wooden chalets, grazing cows, waterfalls and deep green valleys.
As the train descends, the scenery subtly shifts — mountains give way to vineyards, palm trees start to appear, and suddenly Lake Geneva comes into view. The arrival into Montreux feels cinematic, especially after the slower, quieter rhythm of the mountains.
The trains on this route are designed with sightseeing in mind:
- Large panoramic windows
- Comfortable seating
- Smooth, unhurried travel that lets you truly enjoy the views
It’s one of those journeys where the ride is just as memorable as the destination.
Arriving in Montreux
Montreux sits on the shores of Lake Geneva, backed by vineyards and the Alps. It has a relaxed, almost Mediterranean feel — lakeside promenades, flowers everywhere, and an unmistakable artistic energy.
Music lovers will immediately notice the presence of Freddie Mercury, who lived here for several years. His iconic statue stands by the lake, and his influence is felt throughout the town, from plaques and lyrics to the legacy of Mountain Studios, where Queen recorded several albums. Montreux feels both peaceful and electric — a place shaped by creativity.
How to Book the GoldenPass Train
Again, we used Paws on Train to plan our journey. And Beatrice also booked our hotel, as well as the train journey back to Lausanne and eventually to Paris.
However, you can book directly. Booking the GoldenPass is straightforward:
- Tickets can be booked online via the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) website or app
- You can also book through official GoldenPass services or at Swiss train stations
- Seat reservations are recommended for panoramic carriages, especially in peak travel seasons
- If you’re travelling extensively, the Swiss Travel Pass covers the GoldenPass route and offers excellent value
You don’t need to book the entire Lucerne–Montreux route — individual sections (like Zweisimmen to Montreux) can be booked separately.
Is the GoldenPass Worth It?
Absolutely. The GoldenPass isn’t just transport — it’s a slow, beautiful transition through Switzerland’s changing landscapes. From alpine villages to lakeside glamour, it offers a front-row seat to some of the country’s finest scenery, all without lifting a finger.
If you’re planning a Swiss itinerary and want one journey that truly captures the magic of the country, the GoldenPass train deserves a place on your list.
