In the heart of Austria's breathtaking Tyrol region, the
Zillertalbahn winds its way across open meadows, through the scenic
Ziller valley and below the mountains for 18 glorious miles. The
train's cheerful red carriages and engine are easy to spot, as the
Zillertalbahn crawls like a bright caterpillar across the Ziller
valley floor offering a glimpse into the distinct charm of
Austria's verdant countryside. Beginning at the market town of
Jenbach near the shimmering Achen Lake, the Zillertalbahn snakes
its way through the enchanting small Tyrolean towns and villages on
its way to the ski resort of Mayrhofen. In winter, the route
becomes a dazzling gallery of spectacular winter scenery
encompassing frosted forests, white snow fields and awe-inspiring
snow-capped mountains. In summer, the flower filled meadows and
rolling green foothills are drenched in sunlight, showing an
entirely different side of Austria.
The train line was officially opened in 1902, even though
planning was in place from 1863, and it was mainly operating as a
passenger service for residents of the Ziller valley and the rest
of the Tyrol region. The line has expanded to take on freight
services, and the line actually owns a series of steam engines
which are put on occasionally to take passengers and tourists back
in time for special events.