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Alpenrail brings to Tasmania the scenic charms of Switzerland, its railways and some of its culture, and has been created as an artistic wonderland by the Jenni family.
The display represents the Bernese Alps, one of the most mountainous areas of Switzerland. The range of mountains include the well known Jungfrau, the Monch and the Eiger, the last luring about one climber to death every year.
The railway system shows some of the picturesque sections of the BLS - “Bern-Lotschberg-Simplon” line as it climbs the foothills of this area, as well as some of the local lines which take tourists and visitors to holiday destinations in the mountains.
Your visit to Alpenrail is arranged to include a video presentation detailing the construction of the model, and provide you with the opportunity to enjoy three nights and three days all within a 30 minute show depicting this land of miniature.
As you walk around, maybe taking advantage of the viewing platform (our scenic lookout), let your imagination guide you through the stunning countryside. Perhaps you would like to take a train or cable car excursion, or just stroll through the village joining the annual festival where the cattle are brought down from their summer pastures. If you listen nearby you will hear the Alphorn and the clanking of the cowbells.
Take a few moments to delight in the details abounding around the model, experience the dramatic thunderstorm raging during some of our night scenes, and feel the chill of the mist rising over the lake during one of our exquisite sunrises.
The video and the railway presentation alternate between each other, the video lasting 15 minutes and the layout presentation up to 30 minutes. If you arrive partway through any of these you will be able to catch up on the part missed later.
For the children and the “young at heart” there are additional displays that can be controlled by yourself, with favorites including “Thomas the Tank” and the “Smurf” train.
Alpenrail has been open for public viewing since January 26 1985, and, as there are areas dedicated to varying age groups, has since been giving enjoyment to all from 2 year olds all the way to the granddads and grandmas alike - yes, this is not just for the men, but is equally enjoyable for the ladies.
The expression of “wow” on visitors’ faces as they enter the main display hall speaks for itself!
But just in case the lady folk are all “trained” out, we now have our lovely “Wildwoods” garden setting to stroll through - our “Realm of Faery” - where amongst the ponds, waterfalls and fairy houses lots of fairies “adorn” the gardens.
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