Imagine starting your day in the historic, German-speaking city of Lucerne and finishing it sipping wine on the French-speaking Riviera of Lake Geneva.
The GoldenPass Line connects the very best of Switzerland. It links the high alpine peaks of the Bernese Oberland with the Mediterranean vibe of Montreux.
For years, this route required annoying train changes. But in December 2022, they launched the new GoldenPass Express (GPX)—a direct, luxury train that does the whole trip without stopping.
Here is why this might be better than the Glacier Express.
The Route: Three Lakes, Two Worlds
- Start: Lucerne (Central Switzerland).
- Stop: Interlaken (The adventure capital).
- End: Montreux (Home of the Jazz Festival and Freddie Mercury).
- Duration: Approx. 3 hours 15 minutes (Direct).
Highlights:
- Brunig Pass: Steep climb with cogwheel tracks.
- Lake Brienz: Incredible turquoise water.
- Gstaad: The ultra-rich ski resort (look for fancy chalets).
- The Descent to Montreux: The final 20 minutes are breathtaking. The train winds down through the Lavaux Vineyards (UNESCO site) with a panoramic view of Lake Geneva.
The New “Prestige Class” (Is it Worth It?)
The new GPX train has introduced a class above First Class.
- 2nd Class: Comfortable, panoramic windows.
- 1st Class: Leather seats, more space.
- Prestige Class:
- The Seat: Heated leather bucket seats that rotate so you can always face the view.
- The View: The floor is raised by 40cm, so you sit higher than everyone else.
- The Price: You need a 1st Class ticket + a CHF 35 reservation supplement.
Pro Tip: Prestige Class is arguably the best value luxury in Switzerland. It feels like a private jet, but costs only CHF 35 extra if you have a pass.
Do I Need a Reservation?
- Standard Trains: No.
- GoldenPass Express (GPX): Highly recommended, especially for Prestige Class (mandatory) and 1st Class in summer.
- Front Row Seats (VIP): On older trains (still running), there are “VIP seats” right at the front of the train (where the driver usually sits). These require reservation.
Rail Pass Validity
- Swiss Travel Pass: ✅ Fully Included (Just pay reservation for Prestige).
- Eurail / Interrail: ✅ Fully Included.
Which Side to Sit On?
This is tricky because the train changes direction at Meiringen.
However, generally speaking:
- Lucerne to Montreux: Sit on the RIGHT side for the best views of the lakes and the final descent into Montreux.
Summary
The GoldenPass is the most diverse scenic route. You get lakes, high mountains, luxury chalets, and vineyards all in 3 hours. Plus, you end up in Montreux, which is one of the most beautiful towns in Europe.
Ready to ride? Get your Swiss Travel Pass and book a seat on the new GPX.
