Kirnitzschtal Tramway, Rural tramway in Saxon Switzerland, Germany
The Kirnitzschtal Tramway is an interurban tram in Bad Schandau and Sebnitz, Germany, running on a single-track route of nearly eight kilometers (five miles) from the spa town of Bad Schandau to the Lichtenhain Waterfall through the Kirnitzsch valley. The line follows the course of the Kirnitzsch river and serves several stops for hikers and visitors to Saxon Switzerland.
Operations began in 1898 after planners chose electric power over steam. The line was built to carry holidaymakers and hikers from the Elbe riverbank into the interior of Saxon Switzerland, and it still runs with a similar purpose today.
The tram takes its name from the valley it follows and connects walkers with the starting points of many trails in the national park. Its historic cars and the narrow route through the forested valley make each journey an experience that locals and travelers alike appreciate.
Cars run roughly every 30 minutes in summer and around every 70 minutes in winter, depending on season and demand. Tickets for single rides or day passes can be purchased directly from the conductor or at stops.
The system covers 30 percent of its power needs through solar panels installed on the depot roof. This solution supports sustainable operations and shows how historic transport can combine with modern technology.
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