Schynige Platte

is another magical mountain vantage point with great hiking connections and stunning mountain and valley views. The twist is how you get there – instead of a cable car or modern railway, you ride a 19th-century cog railway that, contrary to appearances, safely makes it up the mountain every time. It’s hard to get more charming.

Once you arrive, wander through the Alpine Garden (home to 650 species) or catch a show from the locally famous Schynige Platte alphorn players, who readily allow curious visitors to play their gigantic instruments. Expect to pay at least 40 CHF for your rail ticket.