The iconic Brienz Rothorn Railway in central Switzerland has been forced to close for the remainder of the 2024 season due to a devastating storm. The historic steam-powered cog railway, a beloved tourist attraction, suffered significant damage on August 12th, leading to its temporary closure.
The railway, known for its scenic journey through the Swiss Alps, typically operates from May to October. However, a comprehensive damage assessment following the storm revealed extensive damage to the track and infrastructure. Repairing the 2.2 kilometers of damaged track and addressing the contaminated ballast along an additional 1.4 kilometers is estimated to cost around 5 million Swiss francs. This repair work is expected to take several months, with the railway aiming to resume operations in May 2025.
The storm’s impact extended beyond the railway. The nearby town of Brienz also suffered significant damage, forcing the evacuation of approximately 70 residents. Buildings, vehicles, roads, and other infrastructure were severely impacted by debris overflow from a local waterway. Persistent rain has hindered recovery efforts, with six houses still at risk of collapse.
The closure of the Brienz Rothorn Railway is a major setback for the region’s tourism industry. The railway, dating back to 1892, is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. It was scheduled to be a part of the 2023 Trains/Special Interest Tours Majestic Switzerland itinerary. The hotel at the summit of Rothorn mountain has also been closed due to the damage caused by the storm.
