Pre-Alps Express: Journey Between St. Gallen and Arth-Goldau

The Pre-Alps Express offers travelers a captivating journey through the stunning landscapes of eastern Switzerland. Traversing the distance between the historic city of St. Gallen and the picturesque town of Arth-Goldau, this train ride promises breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, serene lakeshores, and charming villages. With modern amenities and a leisurely pace, passengers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the Swiss countryside. But the true allure of this experience lies in the stories it has to tell – tales of the people, the culture, and the timeless traditions that make this region so captivating.

Key Points

• The Voralpen-Express connects St. Gallen and Arth-Goldau, a scenic journey of approximately 100 minutes, featuring views of Rigi and Schwyzer Mythen mountains.
• The train crosses the Lake Zurich dam in Rapperswil, showcasing expansive views of the lake, and traverses the highest railway viaduct in Switzerland, the Sitter Viaduct.
• The train’s modern, copper-colored exterior and air-conditioned interiors enhance passenger comfort, with amenities like power sockets and bistro zones available.
• St. Gallen offers a UNESCO World Heritage monastery district, a renowned Abbey Library, and a Textile Museum, while Rapperswil is known as the "rose city" with a castle and a wooden bridge.
• Arth-Goldau provides access to the Rigi mountain, the Nature and Animal Park Goldau, and the nearby Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, complementing the journey’s cultural and natural attractions.

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Route Overview

The Voralpen-Express train embarks on a picturesque journey connecting St. Gallen and Arth-Goldau, covering a distance of approximately 100 minutes.

Running hourly, this route offers travelers a scenic experience with its diverse landscapes. Along the way, passengers can catch glimpses of the majestic Rigi and Schwyzer Mythen mountains.

The train also crosses a lake dam in Rapperswil, providing expansive views over Lake Zurich. As it travels through the Toggenburg region, passengers can admire the impressive Sitter Viaduct, the highest railway viaduct in Switzerland at 99 meters.

With a modern, copper-colored exterior and air-conditioned interiors, the Voralpen-Express ensures a comfortable and enjoyable journey through the heart of the Swiss pre-Alps.

Scenic Highlights

Along the journey, travelers are treated to a breathtaking array of scenic highlights. The route offers stunning views of the Rigi and Schwyzer Mythen mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop throughout the journey.

Near Rothenthurm, the train passes through the largest contiguous raised bog area in Switzerland, offering a unique glimpse into the country’s diverse natural landscapes.

As the journey continues, the train crosses the lake dam in Rapperswil, providing expansive views over the serene waters of Lake Zurich.

Finally, the train traverses the Sitter Viaduct, the highest railway viaduct in Switzerland, offering passengers an unforgettable perspective of the Toggenburg region.

• Rigi and Schwyzer Mythen mountains
• Largest raised bog area in Switzerland
• Crossing the lake dam in Rapperswil
• Sitter Viaduct, the highest railway viaduct in Switzerland

Train Amenities

Passengers aboard the Voralpen-Express can look forward to a host of modern amenities that cater to their comfort and convenience.

The train boasts a fully air-conditioned interior with large windows, providing a bright and airy atmosphere. All seats are equipped with power sockets, allowing passengers to stay connected and charged throughout the journey.

The train also features two bistro zones, where self-service drinks and snacks are available.

Families traveling with children will appreciate the dedicated family compartment, complete with hidden object pictures and free coloring books and pencils, ensuring a pleasant experience for all.

These thoughtful touches make the Voralpen-Express a truly comfortable and enjoyable mode of transportation.

St. Gallen Attractions

Nestled in the northeastern part of Switzerland, St. Gallen is a city rich in history and cultural heritage. Known for its UNESCO World Heritage monastery district, the city offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Visitors can explore:

• The Abbey Library of St. Gallen, home to over 170,000 volumes and considered one of the most beautiful Baroque libraries in the world.

• The Textile Museum, which showcases the city’s long-standing textile industry and production of St. Gallen embroidery.

• The medieval Old Town, with its well-preserved buildings and charming alleys.

• The Cathedral of St. Gallen, an impressive example of Baroque architecture and a highlight of the city’s religious heritage.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Rapperswil Highlights

As the train continues its journey, passengers are treated to a breathtaking view of Rapperswil, the "rose city" situated on the shores of Lake Zurich. This charming town is known for its well-preserved medieval castle, historic Old Town, and vibrant rose gardens. Visitors can explore the town’s highlights, which include:

Attraction	Description
Rapperswil Castle	A 13th-century castle with panoramic views over the lake
Old Town	A picturesque historic district with cobblestone streets and half-timbered buildings
Rose Garden	Over 2,500 rose bushes of over 200 varieties, blooming from May to October
Wooden Bridge	A 740-meter-long wooden bridge connecting Rapperswil to the opposite shore of the lake

These features make Rapperswil a charming and quintessential Swiss town to visit during the journey.

Arth-Goldau Attractions

Upon arriving at the final destination of Arth-Goldau, visitors can explore a variety of attractions that showcase the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

The town is home to the Rigi, a prominent mountain that offers panoramic views and hiking opportunities.

The Nature and Animal Park Goldau is another major draw, where guests can observe native Swiss wildlife in a serene, wooded setting.

Nearby, the Tellskapelle chapel commemorates the legendary hero William Tell.

For those interested in transportation history, the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, just a short distance away, provides an in-depth look at the country’s rail, road, and air travel evolution.

Booking Options

Travelers can select from a range of booking options for the Voralpen-Express journey between St. Gallen and Arth-Goldau. One-way tickets are available in both first and second class from either destination. An agency booking fee of 2 CHF is included in the price, which starts at €46.98 per person.

Option	One-Way Ticket	Return Ticket
1st Class	From €46.98	From €84.96
2nd Class	From €34.76	From €63.52
Flexible Booking	+€5	+€10

Passengers can check availability and purchase tickets for specific travel dates and party sizes directly through the operator’s website or authorized sales channels.

Journey Duration

The Voralpen-Express journey between St. Gallen and Arth-Goldau takes approximately 100 minutes to complete. This efficient and scenic route runs hourly, providing travelers with a convenient transportation option.

Some key highlights of the journey duration include:

• A total travel time of just under two hours, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenic landscapes at a relaxed pace.

• Frequent hourly departures, making it easy to fit this train ride into one’s travel plans.

• Ample time to take in the stunning views of the Rigi and Schwyzer Mythen mountains, as well as the expansive Lake Zurich.

• The opportunity to comfortably explore the charming towns of St. Gallen, Rapperswil, and Arth-Goldau along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Allowed on the Train?

Pets are allowed on the train, but they must be kept in carriers. Passengers should consult the train’s policies for specific requirements and any additional fees that may apply for bringing pets on board.

Is Wifi Available Throughout the Journey?

The train offers WiFi throughout the journey, allowing passengers to stay connected and access online content seamlessly during their travels. Passengers can enjoy the scenic views while remaining productive or entertained with the reliable internet connectivity.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks onboard. The train doesn’t have a cafe car, so bringing snacks and beverages is allowed and encouraged to enjoy the scenic journey.

Is There a Storage Area for Large Luggage?

Yes, the train has a dedicated luggage storage area where passengers can stow their larger bags and suitcases. This allows for a comfortable journey with easy access to essential items during the trip.

Are Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Students?

Yes, discounts for senior citizens and students are available on this route. Seniors and students can save up to 30% off the regular ticket price when booking in advance.

Recap

The Pre-Alps Express offers a captivating journey through Switzerland’s stunning landscapes. Passengers can relax and savor the breathtaking views of the Rigi and Schwyzer Mythen mountains, as well as the serene Lake Zurich, while enjoying modern amenities like air-conditioning and power sockets. Whether you’re starting in St. Gallen or Arth-Goldau, this train ride is an unforgettable experience in the country’s beautiful countryside.

You can check if your dates are available here: