Discover the World’s Most Exciting Funicular Rides: Unleash Your Adrenaline with these Thrilling Experiences
Funiculars are a lesser-known means of public transportation. These systems consist of cable cars mounted on a fixed rail and pulled by a counterweight along a track, allowing them to go uphill or downhill. But did you know that there are funiculars designed specifically for thrill seekers? Here are 10 adrenaline-pumping rides that offer an unforgettable experience while taking you to the most breathtaking locations around the world.
1. Mount Washington Cog Railway (New Hampshire, USA)
Experience a truly unique journey as this steam-powered cog railway climbs Mount Washington in New Hampshire, US. This funicular has been operating since 1869 and is still using the original steam locomotive built by the American Locomotive Company in 1940. The trip takes around 2.5 hours to reach the summit and offers panoramic views of the White Mountains along the way.
2. Mount Victoria Flying Fox (Sydney, Australia)
This incredible funicular ride in Sydney is Australia’s only flying fox cable car system. The journey starts at Mount Victoria and takes riders across a valley to Scenic World in Katoomba. The 160-meter-long cable runs between two cliffs, providing an adrenaline rush as you soar through the air at up to 35 kilometers per hour while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains National Park.
3. The Vizcaya Bridge (Bilbao, Spain)
The Vizcaya Bridge in Bilbao, Spain, is an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest surviving examples of a suspension bridge designed by Alberto de Palacio and Gustave Eiffel. The funicular section of this historic structure has been operational since 1893, transporting passengers between Plaza de Mazarredo in Getxo and Altos del Cuartel in Portugalete. The ride offers unparalleled views of the surrounding countryside and is a unique cultural experience.
4. Angkor Cable Car (Siem Reap, Cambodia)
This state-of-the-art cable car system in Siem Reap, Cambodia, provides an eco-friendly way to access the ancient temples of Angkor Wat. The ride stretches over 5.7 kilometers and is a combination of funicular tracks and suspension cables that glide above the jungle canopy, offering panoramic views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s an unforgettable way to explore one of Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist attractions.
5. Mount Teide Cable Car (Tenerife, Spain)
Located on the Canary Island of Tenerife, Mount Teide is Spain’s tallest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To reach the summit, take a ride on the Mount Teide Cable Car, which was built in 1937 by German engineers. The journey takes around 10 minutes to ascend over 2,000 meters above sea level, providing breathtaking views of the island and its volcanic landscape as you make your way towards the crater.
6. Loket Funicular Railway (Czech Republic)
The Loket Funicular Railway in the Czech Republic offers a thrilling journey between the quaint town of Loket and its castle high up on a hilltop. This historic railway has been in operation since 1893, making it one of the oldest funicular systems in the world. Passengers can enjoy stunning views of the region as they make their way through the 720-meter-long track that connects Loket to its iconic castle perched above.
7. Sutongtiang Funicular Railway (Shanghai, China)
Opened in 1986, the Sutongtiang Funicular Railway is a unique public transportation system in Shanghai that connects the city with the surrounding hills where many people live and work. This cable car service takes passengers over the bustling streets of Shanghai to its outskirts, providing an exhilarating experience as you soar above the city’s skyline.
8. The Wurzburg Funicular Railway (Germany)
Located in Bavaria, Germany, the Wurzburg Funicular Railway has been operating since 1887. This funicular system climbs a steep slope connecting Wurzburg’s old town with its hilltop fortress, Koenigstuhl. The journey lasts just under 5 minutes and offers stunning views of the picturesque Main River Valley below.
9. Montserrat Funicular Railway (Barcelona, Spain)
This historic funicular railway in Barcelona, Spain, connects the city with the beautiful Montserrat mountain range and its Benedictine monastery. The journey takes around 15 minutes and offers breathtaking views of Catalonia’s lush landscape as you ascend more than 700 meters above sea level. With a capacity of up to 80 passengers, this funicular is perfect for both locals and tourists seeking adventure in the region.
10. Kodai Lake Funicular (Tamil Nadu, India)
Nestled in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, the scenic hill station of Kodaikanal is home to one of the world’s most unique funicular rides. The 800-meter-long track takes passengers on a thrilling journey between two locations – Berijam Lake and Pambar Falls. Along the way, you will experience breathtaking views of lush forests, rolling hills, and stunning waterfalls as this funicular railway transports you to another world.
Conclusion
From thrilling rides in New Hampshire and Australia to the cultural heritage sites of Spain and Cambodia, these 10 adrenaline-pumping funiculars offer an unparalleled way to explore some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. So take a break from your everyday routine and indulge yourself in these exciting adventures that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.