The unforgettable train ride lasts around 55 minutes (Image: Getty)
If you have a fear of heights, then this one-of-a-kind attraction isn’t for you. But if you love to have your breath taken by panoramic views and sheer drops, then this may be one to add to the list.
This train offers an experience like no other as the tallest train ride in all of Europe, taking you 2,000 metres above sea level, nestled in the French Pyrenees.
The area that surrounds it has a strong reputation for boasting dramatic peaks, deep valleys and authentically quaint mountain villages. With this in mind, it allows you to take it all in from above, at a peaceful pace, from the comfort of the train carriage.
The Artouste Train is recognised as the highest tourist railway in Europe, taking visitors on a 55-minute journey that encompasses views of the enchanting Lake Artouste in France.
Tucked away within the beautiful Ossau Valley in the Béarn region, the train can only be reached via a cable car from the main station. The 15-minute journey will take you to the very top, where your close-to-an-hour journey begins of traversing along the mountains’ edge.
The train is nestled within the French Pyrenees (Image: Getty)
The current train consists of six carriages, with a capacity of 12 passengers in each one, taking on a total of 72 people per journey. It covers roughly 10km of track, winding through the mountains, leaving visitors with an experience they’ll never forget.
It is an experience that they can share with their pets too, as the rail company has a pet-friendly policy onboard. Although it’s worth noting that animals are not permitted on the surrounding hiking trails.
One recent participant of the train ride shared on Tripadvisor: “A magnificent experience in the Ossau Valley! The gondola climb up to 2000 m, then the spectacular short train ride along the cliff, offers breathtaking views.”
Another commented: “Fantastic experience! Family of 4 from the UK, thoroughly enjoyable. Didn’t do the walk at the end and managed to get on an earlier train back, but a thoroughly enjoyable and unique experience.”
It sits 2,000 metres above sea level (Image: Getty)
There is a history behind the attraction dating all the way back to 1921, when it was inaugurated for a purpose far from tourism. In fact, its initial function was purely industrial, to serve as infrastructure that would help the construction of the dam, with which it shares the same name.
An impressive 2,000 workers helped by using the railway to transport tonnes and tonnes of materials up the mountain. A 318-metre tunnel was built through the mountain to make the route more direct.
After the dam was ready to go, it seemed a waste not ot use the railway for something spectacular – and Europe’s highest train attraction was born. It quickly became big tourist draw.
Tickets are on sale at the Ossau Valley Tourist Office or are available to book online in advance. A discovery ticket includes the cable car experience and a return train journey with a one-hour and 20-minute stop at the site, costs €28 for an adult and €20 for children over four years old. These prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the season.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
