You don’t need an excuse to go to Switzerland, but in case you feel there is a need for one, this unique engineering marvel, tucked in the stunning Bernese Oberland region, is a great one. Here lies a staircase, but not just any staircase, you see. This one is the world’s longest staircase with a total of 11,674 steps. Yes, we are talking about the service stairway for the Niesenbahn funicular railway.
This stairway runs alongside the funicular tracks, stretching from the mountain base to the summit. It is primarily used by the maintenance workers to service the railway, but adventurous travellers have climbed it, and it is literally breathtaking, meaning, you will really have to muster all your will power and breaths to reach to the top.
Mount Niesen and the Niesenbahn Funicular
For those new to this part of Switzerland, Mount Niesen is also known as “Switzerland’s Pyramid,” because of its triangular shape. The mountain stands at 2,362 metres (7,749 feet), and is surrounded by stunning valleys, lakes and other mountain peaks.
The Niesenbahn funicular was built between 1906 and 1910 to take passengers from Mülenen to the summit. The service staircase that runs alongside the funicular tracks was built for maintenance access. But its incredible length has fascinated visitors for quite some time now. Keep in mind, the staircase was not built for public use.
The Niesenbahn service stairway holds the title of the world’s longest staircase, according to the Guinness World Records. With 11,674 steps, the stairway covers a distance of approximately 3.4 kilometers (2.1 miles) and ascends a total elevation of 1,669 meters (5,476 feet). The stairway zigzags along the side of the mountain, parallel to the funicular tracks.
Once a year, this remarkable staircase is opened to the public as part of a special event known as the Niesen Treppenlauf, or Niesen Stair Run. This race challenges participants to climb the entire length of the staircase, from the base of the mountain to the summit. The Niesen Treppenlauf is considered one of the most demanding vertical races in the world, drawing elite athletes and adventurous climbers from around the globe. It offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ascend the world’s longest staircase, though it is not for the faint-hearted.
While the staircase is typically off-limits to the general public outside of the annual race, visitors can still experience the beauty of Mount Niesen by taking a ride on the Niesenbahn funicular. The journey to the summit takes about 30 minutes and rewards passengers with panoramic views of the Bernese Alps, Lake Thun, and the surrounding landscape.
The Niesenbahn funicular and its accompanying service staircase remain a testament to Switzerland’s engineering prowess and are a must-see for anyone interested in unique travel experiences.
