The Brienzer Rothorn at 2'350 metres is the local mountain of Brienz and commands a panorama reaching from the Bernese Alps to the peaks of central Switzerland. What makes it special is the journey up: the Brienz Rothorn Railway – one of the few remaining active steam rack railways in Switzerland – chugs from Brienz to the summit in around one hour, passing alpine meadows, rock faces and sweeping views.

From the summit, trails lead in various directions, including the descent to Sörenberg in the Entlebuch or along the Augstmatthorn ridge. The summit itself offers a small mountain hotel and restaurants. In summer the Rothorn is a popular destination for day walkers seeking the combination of a historic train ride and an alpine summit experience.

The Brienz Rothorn Railway departs from Brienz, reachable by train from Interlaken Ost in around 20 minutes. The steam railway runs seasonally from late May to late October. Tickets and timetables: brienz-rothorn-bahn.ch