Sommet du puy de dôme train a cremaillere
You're referring to the Sommet du Puy de Dôme train with a rack-and-pinion system!
The Sommet du Puy de Dôme train, also known as the "Train à Crémaillère du Puy de Dôme", is a historic rack-and-pinion railway that connects the town of Thiers to the summit of Puy de Dôme, a dormant volcano in the Auvergne region of France. The train was built in the late 19th century and is still in operation today.
Here are some interesting facts about the train:
- Rack-and-pinion system: The train uses a rack-and-pinion system, where a toothed rack is embedded in the track and a pinion gear on the locomotive engages with the rack to provide traction and propulsion up the steep incline.
- Steepest section: The train climbs a gradient of 12.5% (1 in 8) on the steepest section, making it one of the steepest railways in the world.
- Length: The train is approximately 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles) long, with a total elevation gain of 1,000 meters (3,300 feet).
- Speed: The train travels at a maximum speed of 15 km/h (9.3 mph) due to the steep incline and the need to maintain traction.
- Heritage: The train is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered an important piece of French industrial and technological heritage.
- Tourist attraction: The train is a popular tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Puy de Dôme volcano.
The Sommet du Puy de Dôme train is a unique and fascinating piece of engineering history, and a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in railways, technology, and scenic views.