Yverdon-les-Bains - Sainte-Croix, by train
The train connects the plains of the Upper Lake Neuchâtel region with the Jura plateau. The railway line was created in 1893 to transport workers from Yverdon-les-Bains to Ste-Croix, the world centre of music boxes.

Between 5 a.m. and 11 p.m. there is a train an hour from the Upper Lake Neuchâtel plain to Sainte-Croix (1,095 m) in the Jura. Sainte-Croix has been the centre of music boxes and precision mechanics since the beginning of the 19th century. Then the Grand Hotel des Rasses was built, which intensified the need for exchange between the plain and the mountains. Sainte-Croix needed a connection which horse-drawn carriages could no longer offer.

William Barbey, a deputy and businessman from the Lake Geneva Region, financed the railway line, which was inaugurated in 1893. To resolve the problem of crossing a considerable difference in height, the itinerary runs in a large loop above Vuiteboeuf, which offers an extraordinary panoramic view.

After workers and manufacturers, the train now transports tourists, as well as inhabitants and students of engineering schools, which gives it a pleasant local flair. The Travys Society offers countless connections in the region of Yverdon-les-Bains. In Sainte-Croix, five electric bikes can be rented. Incidentally, the train carriages are equipped for the transport of bikes.

“La Traverse” is an old Rhaetian Railway carriage. It has been completely transformed and restored by Travys. Its lounge-type area and a restaurant are ideal for company outings (advance booking required).