Cape Point has been listed as one of the most impressive funicular systems, and these are some of the other systems recognised around the world.
Cape Point, Western Cape – A funicular system is one of the modes of transportation which uses cable traction for movement on steeply inclined slopes. A funicular railway employs a pair of passenger vehicles which are pulled on a hill by the same cable which loops over a pulley wheel at the upper end of a track.
Cape Point’s funicular system has been listed and one of the five most impressive systems in the world.
When an area is too steep or too dangerous to travel on foot, a funicular can be your best bet getting from point A to B. Here are a few good funicular systems which offer not just convenience but amazing views as well.
The Peak Tramway – Hong Kong
Hong Kong is known for having loads of tourist hotspots, but their most famous attraction has to be the Peak Tramway, which transports both locals and tourists to the upper regions of Hong Kong Island. The Peak Tramway has a collection of unique must-see attractions, allowing visitors to experience a fun-filled experience of Hong Kong. It’s also one of the world’s oldest funiculars today.
Castle Hill Funicular – Hungary
Considered as one of the grandest cities in the world, Budapest is also known for having one of the world’s most popular funicular systems. The Buda Hill Funicular is a pleasant and reasonably cheap way to save your legs from a long hike. Running up the side of the famous hill, it was initially used to assist workers in reaching the Castle District above. Today it’s a popular tourist attraction, providing views through the heart of Budapest.
Old Quebec Funicular – Canada
Believe it or not, this vintage funicular first operated using a water system for its propulsion way back in 1879. Since then, upgrades to the system have made it into an electric-powered funicular, which moves up and down the hill. The route of the funicular isn’t that long, but it rises high enough to capture some beautiful views over one of Canada’s most beautiful cities.
The Gelmer Funicular – Switzerland
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind funicular experience, Switzerland would be your best bet. The Swiss are known for having an impressive collection of railways across the country. However, Gelmer Funicular is considered as one of the best in the world. It’s the steepest in Europe, with a gradient so steep it’s often compared to a rollercoaster. Many commuters prefer taking a ride up for the adrenaline rush alone.
Flying Dutchman Funicular – Cape Point
The Flying Dutchman Funicular is the first of its kind on the African continent, and its panoramic views on the way up certainly make it a contender for having the most breathtaking vistas on the planet. A key appeal of this funicular is at that is also wheelchair-friendly giving the elderly and physically unfit an easy access vantage point. Named after the legendary Flying Dutchman Ghost Ship, the funicular runs through dense fynbos and gets visitors up to 214 metres above sea level, leaving just a short flight of steps for the best view over the South Western Corner of Africa.
Have you been on any of these Funicular systems? Let us know in the comment section.
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