Running from the Schwyz valley to the car-free resort village of Stoos, Stoosbahn in Switzerland is now the world’s steepest funicular railway. Experience this engineering marvel and explore the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland with our curated Switzerland trip, offering you the chance to discover the beauty and adventure that await in this Alpine wonderland.

What is a funicular railway?

Funicular railway is a cable operated railway system which moves in an inclined form rather than the conventional way. A scenic ride with two cars operating on an inclined cable, one moving up while the other goes down. The system works by gravity or through the use of a motorised winch that moves the cars along these rails. Funicular railways are very common is areas which have steep gradients and are normally used where elevation changes are extreme. They are mainly used in hilly areas with attractions like scenic views, offering easy travel and maximum fun.

Stoosbahn

Stoosbahn was built at a cost of 52 million Swiss Francs and took nearly 14 years to finish. It now holds the record as the world’s steepest funicular, surpassing Switzerland’s Gelmer Funicular.

While the Gelmer Funicular had a maximum inclination of 106 percent, Stoosbahn Funicular now has a gradient of 110 percent. The revolutionary design of the Stoosbahn Funicular will impress you even before you ride, not just for its steep incline.

Interesting read: We dare you to walk on the worlds longest pedestrian bridge in Switzerland!

Stoosbahn Funicular, with its four cylindrical cabins, can carry 136 people, 34 per carriage. As the funicular climbs, it adjusts to the steepness of the slope with the help of a tilting hydraulic floor. The rotating barrel-shaped cabins also make sure that the level of the floor surface remains the same throughout the journey. So, you get unparalleled views of the surrounding all the time.

You can board the Stoosbahn funicular from the Schwyz valley station and ride till the Stoos mountain station. The funicular operates Monday to Thursday & Sunday from 7:05am to 7:40pm, and Friday & Saturday from 7:05am to 11:45pm.

Enjoy the climb by admiring the breathtaking mountain views, and don’t forget to capture videos of the captivating journey. The length of the track is 1,547 metres and the entire journey takes a maximum of two to five minutes. While the funicular might resemble a roller coaster, do not expect a daring journey. It functions at a speed of 10 metres per second.

Stoosbahn Funicular not only caters to tourists and visitors but will aid in transportation by bridging communities. For your honeymoon in Switzerland, you can book this experience for more romance!

You can book the tickets online from the official website.

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