Pilatusbahn · DVD · 63 mins

£18.25

At a maximum gradient of 48%, or just under 1 in 2 — the Pilatusbahn is the steepest rack railway in the world. Built in 1889 to access the summit of Mt. Pilatus, near Luzern, this 800mm gauge line climbs 1635 m (5364 ft) in 4618 m (2.87 miles). The steepness of the gradients dictated the adoption of the unique Locher rack system, which locks the train to the line and prevents derailment or capsize in extreme weather conditions. Originally steam-operated, it was electrified at 1550V DC in 1937. This remarkably enjoyable film features a journey up the mountain, and looks at the various eccentricities of operation, notably the ‘points’.