By Train in Berner Oberland

Trains from Bern to Interlaken run once an hour between 6 AM and 11 PM, some requiring a change at Spiez. From Zürich, a direct line leads through Bern to Interlaken and takes about 2½ hours, departing hourly; a more scenic trip over the Golden Pass route via Luzern takes about two hours. From Basel trains run twice an hour via Olten (approximately a 2½-hour trip). Trains run hourly from Geneva (a 2¾-hour ride). Trains stop at the Interlaken West station first. Next stop is Interlaken East. West is the more central, but check with your hotel if you've booked in advance: some of the town's fine hotels are clustered nearer the East station, and all Brienzersee boat excursions leave from the docks nearby. For train information in Interlaken, ask at Interlaken West.

The Berner Oberland is riddled with federal and private railways, funiculars, cogwheel trains, and cable lifts designed with the sole purpose of getting you closer to its spectacular views. A Swiss Pass lets you travel free on federal trains and lake steamers, and gives reductions on many private excursions. If you're concentrating only on the Berner Oberland, consider a 15-day Regional Pass, which offers 450 km (279 mi) of free rail, bus, and boat travel for any five days of your visit, with half fare for the remaining 10 days, as well as discounts on some of the most spectacular (and pricey) private excursions into the heights. The price is 316 SF (first class) and 265 SF (second class). A seven-day pass allows you three days of travel for 263 SF (first class) and 220 SF (second class). These regional passes also grant a 50% discount for travel to Luzern, Zermatt, and Brig. With a Family Card (20 SF), children who are under 16 and accompanied by at least one parent travel free. Discount passes pay for themselves only if you're a high-energy traveler; before you buy, compare the price à la carte for the itinerary you have in mind.

Train Information

Swiss Rail (0900/300300. www.sbb.ch).