There are few passenger
railroads in the world shrouded in as many layers of history as the
Brocken Railway. The line climbs the highest mountain in Germany's
Harz Mountain, the Brocken, on a course that presents all the
scenic delights of Upper Harz National Park.
The scenic railway has
attracted visitors far and wide to gaze upon its splendors. Fully
restored steam engines lead the way for most trips up the
mountainside. Trains depart from the station at Drei Annen Hohne
and climb through fir groves and pine forests and past lush alpine
meadows to Germany's highest railway station, Brockenbahnhof-set at 3,690 feet above
sea level and just 52 feet below the actual summit.
For the journey,
passengers are seated in comfortable carriages on bench-style
seats. Each offers space for two guests, and there is one bench on
each side of the central aisle. Operable windows line the sides of
the carriages, allowing guests to breathe in the fresh mountain air
as the train ascends the mountain. Authentic steam engine sounds -
the hissing of the engine, the clickety-clack of the tracks -
further enhance the nostalgic experience.
The climb continues until
the Brocken
Railwayreaches the summit
station. Here, breathtaking views abound from the Brocken Plateau.
Visitors can look over the surrounding mountains, German towns, and
beyond. Hiking trails offer the
option to hike back down to the mountain's base for those travelers
who wish for a challenge. Even making the descent aboard the train,
it is easy to
see why the Brocken
Railwayis a favorite of
tourists.
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