Samichlaus Express — Dampfbahn-Verein Zürcher Oberland (DVZO)

The Dampfbahn-Verein Zürcher Oberland (DVZO) runs the Samichlaus Express from Bauma as a steam train ride. The operator describes a winter ride through hopefully snowy countryside during which the Samichlaus accompanies the children with stories and small surprises.

The story is a search: the steam train sets out to find the Samichlaus and, once he is found, he comes back to Bauma with the passengers. In the historic station hall the children have the chance to recite a Versli (a short verse); with or without a verse, each child receives a gift bag from the Chlaus. The operator promises a festive atmosphere with plenty of lights and steam.

The train usually runs from Bauma to Bäretswil and back; if there is a lot of snow, a route through the Töss valley is chosen instead. Mulled wine, punch and snacks are sold at Bauma, and the operator's small steam-railway shop there is open. There is no catering on the train.

A steam-hauled ride with a search for the Samichlaus, who comes back to Bauma with the passengers. In the historic station hall each child can recite a verse and receives a gift bag. Mulled wine, punch and snacks are sold at Bauma; there is no catering on the train. The operator advises warm clothing: the carriages are somewhat heated, but windows are sometimes open.

Trains leave from the platform in the historic station hall at Bauma, in the Zürich Oberland; doors open 30 minutes before each departure. The operator sells family tickets for up to 3, 4 or 6 people, which include the steam ride and one gift bag per child; no single-person fare is published. Reservations are made through the ticket shop on the operator's page (Ticketino) or at advance-sale points, where cash is accepted. Buying on the spot is theoretically possible, but the operator says its trains are usually already booked out; a single traveller can ride in the luggage car at the usual fare, without a gift bag. Babies are not counted and travel free if they do not take their own seat. Prams can go in the luggage car or be left at Bauma. Phone: +41 52 589 68 75 (Mon–Fri, 9:00–17:00).