Rolling through snow-capped mountains, streaming past valleys, and crossing glass-like lakes: All part of the Bernina Express experience.
Is the hype around the Bernina Express really worth it? Having been declared a UNESCO world heritage site, it has been described as being “Europe’s most scenic train ride.” Bernina Express is the best train ride one could ever take. The hype is definitely worth it and first-hand experience is absolutely necessary!
The hype the Bernina Express has gained is partly due to the incredible shots which numerous, patient photographers have taken while on the train ride. All the pictures and stories about the Bernina Express may not be enough to prepare one for the breathtaking scenery to be witnessed along the pass. The Bernina Express is a panoramic train experience from Switzerland to Italy through the Swiss alps.
The cost for the train can be quite steep (200 CHF) during the peak season compared to the other panoramic train rides in Switzerland. The 122 km train ride from ice-cold Switzerland to warm, sunny meadows in Italy is worth every penny. The splendid train ride passes through:
With its start at the historic settlement of Chur, one of Switzerland’s oldest settlements. The breathtaking, electrifying 8-hour journey from glaciers to palm trees begins.
The narrow-gauge track passes through Domleschg valley, which is well known for being the site for several castles, after which it descends to reach Filisur. From Filisur the train ascends up several spiral loops to the entrance of the Albula Tunnel.
The train will then pass through the amorous, rugged Albula valley, where the world-famous Landwasser viaduct is located. The Landwasser Viaduct is a 65 meter high, single-track, curved limestone portion of the Bernina Express.
The train then ascends past the Morteratsch Glacier to reach the highest point at Ospizio Bernina. After which it begins a dramatic descent of about 6000 feet to Tirano, Italy.
From Opsizio Bernina, the train passes through alp grum station, where there are spectacular views of the Palu glacier. Taking a detour in Alp grum can add to the excitement of the trip. There are several remarkable destinations which include the Alp grum hotel and the Cavaglia GlacierGardens.
From the AlpGrum station, the train gradually descends while traversing through numerous curves into the Poschiavo valley. While it is still in Switzerland the local villagers in Poschiavo valley are Italian speaking.
From the valley floor, the train passes through Lago di Poschiavo (Lake of Poschiavo) where it descends to the prominent Brusio Spiral Viaduct. After about 15 minutes, the train crosses the Italian border and arrives in Tirano, Italy.
The only unremarkable parts of the journey are when the train passes through the tunnels. That’s only because it’s dark! Besides that, the entire journey is fascinating, there will be a temptation to take the trip twice. Time may be a limitation, and exploring the whole pass may not be feasible, it is best to pick the route which is closest to r base town.
While the route runs all year round, the time of the year to visit mostly depends on the season which intrigues the visitor most.
Travelling first class certainly has its perks, the Bernina Express first class is no exception. While both first and second-class coaches of the Bernina Express have incredibly wide panoramic windows sealed up to the roof, first-class seats have substantially more legroom.
A trip on the Bernina Express is certainly one of the top-adds for a bucket list for anyone traveling to or visiting Switzerland. The extra cost will certainly be worth it!
Aunindita Bhatia is a professional content writer based in India. She loves to travel, read novels, and watch old classes movies. She has written for Thethings, Babygaga, Thetravel, and Therichest. Her contributions reflects her special interest in travel, women health and celebrities. When she’s not writing, she spends time with her two beautiful and naughty sons. Find more about her work at www.auninditabhatia.com