"The cloud was a bit too big to be the smoke from a barbecue... As I got closer, I saw a steam locomotive rolling back to the depot. I was in Le Pré-Petitjean, not far from the station, at the depot of "La Traction". A train with carriages from a bygone age and a group of volunteers and enthusiasts busying themselves around the metal monsters. They tell me that the steam train runs five times a year for the general public, as in days gone by. But sometimes the train may be attacked by villains on horseback... On the way from Glovelier to Saignelégier, the thirsty locomotive has to stop in Bollement to fill up with hundreds of litres of water before carrying on. This well-oiled and lovingly pampered steel monster attracts plenty of nostalgic admirers. Actually, I might be one of them..."
Hector
Info
The steam train of the Franches-Montagnes can be booked in advance for groups but also runs on certain dates between June and September for the general public. The schedule for the current year can be found on the website of La Traction. Bookings can be made at the Chemins de fer du Jura. The most frequent route runs from Glovelier to Saignelégier.
Good to know
The steam locomotives and period carriages are kept in a depot close to Le Pré-Petitjean station in Montfaucon. At weekends it is quite common to meet enthusiastic volunteers overhauling, cleaning and maintaining the steel monsters there.
La Traction
Roland Lachat
Case postale 611
2800 Delémont
T. +41 (0) 79 408 38 02
F. +41 (0) 32 421 92 09
www.la-traction.ch
