Swiss tracks
The Swiss Pass entitles you to a 50% fare reduction on the Brienzer Rothorn Bahn. The implication that I got from the caption on page 88 of the April ’07 issue was that it was free (“included”). We enjoyed it on a Swiss vacation in September ‘06.
• Page 99 of the April issue mentions that the funicular between Lauterbrunnen and Grütschalp has been replaced by an aerial gondola. That is since my visit last September, when it was still out of service. The post bus and cable car, always an alternative route from Lauterbrunnen to Mürren, was the only way to get up there.
Incidentally, the small train that runs between Grütschalp and Mürren still runs, every half hour, giving you excellent views of the mountains Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger across the valley.
GEORGE SCHLAEPFER
Livonia, MI
A copy of the above letter was sent to ITN’s train specialist, Jay Brunhouse, who wrote, “I regret that my caption was only partially correct. A Swiss Pass covers only 50% of the Brienzer Rothorn Bahn.
“Also, Hugo Furrer of the Swiss Travel System in Bern confirmed that the aerial gondola from Lauterbrunnen to Grutschalp went into service during December 2006, and he pointed out that the Swiss Pass completely covers the entire route to Mürren.
“Lastly, the small train between Grutschalp and Mürren is great, but it is more enjoyable to walk (but without luggage).”