In the better-late-than-never category, Switzerland's century-old plan to link Lake Geneva and the lakes of Thun and Brienz will come to fruition on Dec. 11, with the launch of the first nonstop train route between Interlaken and Montreux.
Related: Uniworld cruise and rail journeys offer a deeper dive into Europe
The new GoldenPass Express will combine metric and standard gauge rail, bridging the gap between mountain railways and high-speed trains.
Cars will feature first-, second- and Prestige-class seating, the latter of which will offer 18 rotating seats for passengers to enjoy 360-degree views.
The 3 hour, 15 minute journey will travel from the Vaud Riviera to the Bernese Alps via the Pays-d'Enhaut.