Höllental Railway, Heritage railway in Lower Austria, Austria
The Höllental Railway is a narrow-gauge heritage line in Lower Austria operating electric locomotives across 4.9 kilometers between Payerbach-Reichenau and Hirschwang. The 760-millimeter track runs through a scenic valley landscape.
Built in 1918 as an industrial railway for a paper mill, the line received passenger service authorization in 1922. Regular service ended in 1963, after which enthusiasts took over operations in 1979.
Local railway enthusiasts operate this line to preserve historic transport heritage and run weekend excursions. Visitors witness how traditional trains move through the valley on narrow tracks, keeping the local rail story alive.
Trains run mainly on weekends and holidays, especially during summer months and special advent rides in December. Check specific departure days in advance and book early for popular dates.
The electric locomotives E1 to E3 date from 1903 and rank among the world's oldest still-operating electric engines. These machines represent the early days of electric railway technology and draw railway enthusiasts worldwide.
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