In the heart of the breath taking Tyrol region of Austria, the
Zillertalbahn wends its way across the shimmering meadows, along
the valleys and under the mountains. Cheerful red carriages and
engine are easy to spot, as the Zillertalbahn crawls like a bright
caterpillar across the Ziller valley floor offering a glimpse into
the distinct charm of Austria's verdant countryside. Beginning at
the jolly market town of Jenbach near the shimmering Achen Lake,
the Zillertalbahn snakes its way through the enchanting small
Tyrolean towns and villages on its way to the ski resort of
Mayrhofen. In winter, the route becomes a dazzling gallery of
spectacular winter scenery encompassing frosted forests, white snow
fields and awe-inspiring snow-capped mountains. In summer, the
flower filled meadows and rolling green foothills are drenched in
sunlight, showing an entirely different side of Austria.
The train line was officially opened in 1902, mainly operating
as a passenger service for residents of the Ziller valley and the
rest of the Tyrol region. The line has expanded to take on freight
services, and the line actually owns a series of steam engines
which are put on occasionally to take passengers and tourists back
in time.