Golden Pass Questions

1. The part between Interlaken Ost and Luzern. It goes over the Bruenig Pass.
2. No reservations needed as the train goes every hour. It may be less crowded if you avoid departures that coincide with the arrival off the Golden Pass Express trains coming from Montreux. That may have a lot of continuing excursionists. All the cars have panoramic windows.
3. I'd sit on the righthand side for views of the Berner Oberland mountains across the Brienzersee. I believe the train may change directions at a switchback going over the pass.

It is free with an STP or BOP and half fare with the card.

The train does change directions at Meiringen . It will pull into the station , and a locomotive ( with a rack gear ) will be attached to what was the rear end . It will then pull up grade toward The Brunig Pass . As you descend from Brunig - Hasliberg , switch to the left side of the carriage for the better view

all my thoughts about one of the prettiest train rides have been said above.....You don't need to change sides in Meiringen, just turn around....