From the good old days to today’s innovation!

The great railway adventure of MOB began in 1901 with the opening of a first section between Montreux and Zweisimmen. In 1905, the 63 kilometres of the entire route were now accessible and the new section up to Lenk was finished in 1912. This was the first line of its size to be electrified, and this authentic first connection of the current GoldenPass Line, which links Montreux to Lucerne via Interlaken, therefore required all the creative genius of the builders of the time, which would mark the history and success of MOB.

Following its opening, the popularity of this line quickly spread beyond the borders of Switzerland and attracted a large number of tourists, in particular Anglo-Saxons. The quality of the rolling stock and the high level of passenger comfort were important factors in its approval.

In 1931, the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits and major European express trains decided to travel daily on this high-quality line. At the end of 1933, these cars were unfortunately withdrawn from regular service following the world economic crisis. However, financial support from the public authorities and the army would allow major route renovations, as well as the acquisition of lighter rolling stock after the Second World War. Also, the new federal law on the railways of 1957 meant that the company was able to claim 12 million Swiss francs for technical improvements.

Thanks to this, by 1973, the MOB had acquired 4 articulated railcars and 15 passenger carriages, and modernised its infrastructure. A new programme of 6.5 million Swiss francs led to the continued development with two additional railcars and a new substation in Rougemont.

Finally, an investment of 9 million Swiss francs on the share capital of the company itself made it possible to complete the work programme. The company has also purchased equipment, brought the old Belle Époque vehicles into service, improved signage, renovated buildings and constructed a panoramic carriage, all improvements which have contributed to its success today, for customers to enjoy on a daily basis.