Cuckoo train

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cuckoo train - nostalgic steam locomotive

Pure romance or rather a few regional delicacies in a very special setting. That's what you get at our bucket list destination no. 7. The Kuckuckbähnel is a small, nostalgic gem that takes you along the old railroad line through the beautiful green forest landscapes of the Elmstein Valley. The historic steam locomotive pulls several old carriages behind it and transports its passengers back to another century. From March to October, the still originally operated locomotive runs from Neustadt to Elmstein and back every Sunday. After boarding in Neustadt, the first 2 km are on the normal railroad line to Lambrecht. The train then leaves the modern tracks and turns off towards Lambrecht and into the Palatinate Forest. The total distance of approx. 13 km ends in Elmstein, where you can relax and pass the time before heading back.

In addition to a few wine tastings, there is also a wonderful midsummer ride in summer, which includes a few treats as well as one or two additional stops. Wine tastings are even available in English by prior arrangement. You can find all the information about this in the highlights and tips.

Highlights & Tips

The Kickuckbähnel travels to Elmstein twice a day. The first trip starts at 10:45 a.m. in Neustadt at platform 5 and arrives in Elmstein at around 12:00 p.m. with a short stop to take photos. You can then start the return journey at around 14:00. But please note: On the return journey, the train only goes as far as Lambrecht. Here you can take the S1 or S2 directly to Kaiserlautern without having to make the detour via Neustadt.

The first journey of the day is always quite full and quickly booked up. The second journey is often a little more relaxed and less busy. It also starts in Lambrecht (i.e. take the S1 or S2 from Kaiserslautern directly to Lambrecht) at 15:30. Unfortunately, there is no photo stop here and you will reach Elmstein at around 16:15. You have a good three quarters of an hour to look around the little village before you start your journey home again at around 17:00. On the return journey, you can then decide whether you want to get off in Lambrecht or travel all the way back to Neustadt.

The return trip costs €16.00 for adults. If you travel there and back from Lambrecht, it is €14.00 per person. Up-to-date information on prices and all departure times in detail can be found on the Kuckucksbähnl website.

If you are interested in more than just a ride on the historic train, it is best to visit the railroad museum in Neustadt. Here you can find out all about the history of the railroad line and the old drive systems of the vehicles. You can find more information here.

FACTS

There & away

Take the S1 or RE1 train from Kaiserslautern main station to Neustadt an der Weinstraße in around 30 minutes. Trains run every 10 - 15 minutes in the direction of Neustadt. Here you just have to change platforms to get to platform 5. This is where the ride on the Kuckucksbähnel begins. Everything is well signposted on site and the platform is clearly marked.

Google Maps - Neustadt station

When

The trips always take place on Sundays from March to October. Special events such as the "Rolling Wine Tasting" or the "Midsummer Night's Ride" can be found in the events calendar on the website.

Duration

The ride on the Kuckucksbähnel is worth a day trip. Including arrival and departure, you should take 4 - 5 hours and enjoy the ride in a relaxed manner.

Equipment

No equipment is required for this bucket list destination. On the train, you will be well catered for with drinks and regional delicacies. Once you arrive in Elmstein, you will also find one or two nice restaurants here. Enjoy the ride and the beautiful surroundings.