Hourly direct trains run from Lucerne (Luzern in German) to Interlaken. This journey of a little under two hours rates as one of the finest short journeys in the Alps. All trains on this route are run by a private Swiss rail operator called Zentralbahn; they are branded as InterRegio (IR) services. But they are definitely a cut above the average IR train. Very modern trains are used on the route, with huge glass windows affording glorious views of the passing scenery. There is an on-board bistro serving snacks, light meals and some excellent Swiss wines.

Departure from Lucerne is through a series of tunnels, but soon we are above ground again, skirting the Sarnersee as the hills close in. The railway climbs steeply to the summit of Brunig Pass, from where it's downhill to Meiringen where the train reverses its direction of travel. From Meiringen, opt for a seat on the left for lovely lake views on the run west, skirting the north shore of the Brienzersee, to Interlaken. Most trains on the route from Lucerne to Interlaken makes seven intermediate stops. A handful of services make as many as ten stops.