A mountain pass road connects Andermatt and Disentis in summer, but there is no way through in winter.
Except for Victor Costa and his après-ski train. Many guests climb up to the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres above sea level – free with a valid ski pass.
Each day, Victor covers 6,000 vertical metres with the après-ski train, from his new home in Andermatt, in Switzerland’s Lake Lucerne region, over the Oberalp Pass to Disentis, and back, twice each way.
From the Atlantic to the Alps.
For a long time, Victor was not interested in snow. Having grown up on the Atlantic coast in northern Portugal, Victor became gripped by a spirit of discovery. Like Ferdinand Magellan and Vasco da Gama before him, he was drawn to foreign lands, albeit in a different direction. In 1994, he set sail and arrived in Andermatt as there were jobs available here.
A journey into the unknown, but one which led Victor directly to happiness.
At exactly 4.19 p.m., the après-ski train reaches Andermatt for the second and final time. The around 35 remaining guests leave the après-ski train happy and satisfied, expressing their thanks to the bartender. “… until next time”, says Victor.
For him, the day is not yet over. He collects the empty glasses, puts on his reflective waistcoat and crosses the train tracks. In the railway station building, a dishwasher is waiting to be loaded. Victor has served more than 200 drinks and must now ensure that guests we be well looked after tomorrow again.
About the après-ski train
Four times a day, this converted train carriage travels through the Oberalp Pass from Andermatt to Disentis, entertaining snow enthusiasts on the way. It is the longest après-ski train in Switzerland, with the rolling barkeeper Victor serving a variety of drinks and local specialties on board. On the weekends, a party atmosphere fills the carriage with a DJ onboard entertaining the guests.
The unique après-ski train provides six disembarkation points to reach the pistes or to get home – free-of-charge for ski pass holders.
Check out a video of the après-ski train here.
Switzerland winter holiday tips
Freeride adventures, tobogganing fun or a cosy sun terrace? The Swiss winter offers a wide range of possibilities. Find some hand-picked recommendations from Switzerland Tourism and its partners here: mySwitzerland.com/winter
