Train journeys worth the detour

Some trains are transport. Others are the reason for the trip. These are five European routes we would happily ride for their own sake.

Bernina Express (Switzerland–Italy)

From Chur to Tirano, the line climbs over the Bernina Pass at 2,253 metres without a single rack section, past glaciers and over the famous circular viaduct at Brusio. The route is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The panoramic carriages require a reservation; ordinary regional trains on the same line do not, and their windows open.

Flåm Railway (Norway)

Twenty kilometres from Myrdal down to the Aurlandsfjord, dropping 863 metres past waterfalls. Combine it with the Oslo–Bergen line for one of the best days of rail travel anywhere.

West Highland Line (Scotland)

Glasgow to Mallaig, across Rannoch Moor and over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Sit on the left heading north for the best views of Loch Shiel.

Linha do Douro (Portugal)

From Porto, the line follows the Douro river through terraced vineyards to Pocinho. Take the earliest train, sit on the right, and get off at Pinhão for lunch and a port tasting.

Centovalli Railway (Switzerland–Italy)

A narrow-gauge line from Locarno to Domodossola through the "hundred valleys", crossing more than 80 bridges in under two hours.