Bregenz Forest Railway (Wälderbahn)

A heritage narrow-gauge railway running through the valley on a 760mm track

The Wälderbahn (Forest Railway) is a heritage narrow-gauge steam and diesel railway operating on a preserved section of the original Bregenzerwaldbahn between Bezau and Bersbuch. The original line ran from Bregenz into the valley, opening in 1902 and closing in 1980; this preserved section opened for heritage operations in 1983.

The railway runs through lovely valley scenery on a gauge of 760mm — the so-called Bosnian gauge used widely in the Austro-Hungarian empire. The steam locomotives and vintage rolling stock are maintained in working order and run on selected days throughout summer. The station building at Bezau is original and well-preserved. For railway enthusiasts, this is a significant surviving example; for general visitors, it is a charming way to see the valley. Check the railway's website for current operating schedules.

things to do sight historic house
A story
The Bregenzerwaldbahn opened in 1902 to connect the remote valley villages to Bregenz on Lake Constance. It was closed as a regular service in 1980 when improved roads made it uneconomical. A preserved section between Bezau and Bersbuch was reopened as a heritage railway — making it one of the few working examples of the once-widespread Bosnian-gauge (760mm) narrow-gauge railways that crossed the Alps.