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Italian Lakes and Switzerland scenic rail

Is there a "scenic railway" kind of day tour rail trip departing from anywhere in the Italian Lakes vicinity (Como?) that will nice Alpine vistas? It could be an actual scenic railway, or just a particular short-distance train route between 2 towns. Thanks!

Posted by
32318 posts

Loretta, One route that comes to mind would be a day trip from Stresa (Lago Maggiore) to Locarno (Switzerland) on the scenic Cento Valli railway, returning via a leisurely cruise in the late afternoon. That trip involves travel by regular train to Domodossola, and then Cento Valli from there to Locarno (which is a very beautiful city). While there you could tour the Franciscan Santa Maria del Sasso Monastery, enjoy some time in the Casino or take a Cable Car trip to Cardada, where you have enjoy a meal overlooking the city and the lake, perhaps with Paragliders sailing past the restaurant patio. Happy travels!

Posted by
396 posts

Ken's information is what I was going to give you It's a great day trip with train/boat and beautiful scenery. You can also pay for lunch on the train (or not). It is Lake Maggiorie, out of Stresa. I loved it and I have stayed in Stresa, Baveno and Cannobio...if you need hotel, restaurant recommendations just sent me an email and I will provide.

Posted by
17225 posts

Stresa is on Lago Maggiore. From Lago di Como, an easier (and more generous with high alpine scenery) trip would be the Bernina Express route from Tirano to St. Moritz and back. Or go just as far as Pontresina if you want a shorter trip. Tirano is 1.5 hours from Varenna by regional train. You can find the schedules on the Swiss rail site www.rail.ch