Bernina Express | Saint Moritz

The Bernina Express is one of the most scenic and iconic train journeys in the world, running through the Swiss Alps and offering breathtaking views of the Swiss and Italian landscapes. It is part of the Rhaetian Railway (RhB) network and is renowned for crossing some of the most dramatic and picturesque terrain in Europe, including alpine meadows, rugged mountain passes, glaciers, and serene lakes.

Key Details About the Bernina Express

1. Route and Overview

• The Bernina Express connects Chur, Switzerland, with Tirano, Italy. The full journey spans approximately 122 kilometers (75 miles), passing through some of the most dramatic and stunning landscapes in the Swiss Alps.
• The route travels through the Alpine region of the Rhaetian Railway, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its architectural and engineering feats. The Bernina Express journey is famous for the Bernina Range, Morteratsch Glacier, and the Bernina Pass, which is the highest point on the train route at 2,253 meters (7,391 feet) above sea level.
• The train runs year-round, although the experience can vary with the changing seasons, from lush green valleys in the summer to snow-covered landscapes in winter.

2. Scenic Highlights

The Bernina Express is widely considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. Some of its key highlights include:

• Oberalp Pass: The highest point of the route, located at 2,033 meters (6,670 feet), where the train offers panoramic views of surrounding peaks and glaciers.
• Alp Grüm: A mountain station perched at 2,091 meters, offering spectacular views of the Palü Glacier and the Val Poschiavo.
• Bernina Range: The train traverses this range, home to some of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in the Alps, including towering peaks, glaciers, and pristine lakes.
• Morteratsch Glacier: As the train passes the glacier, it gives passengers an up-close view of the ice formations and snow-capped peaks.
• Veltlin Valley: After crossing into Italy, the train descends into the lush, verdant Veltlin Valley, where passengers can enjoy views of vineyards and Mediterranean-style landscapes.

3. Train Experience

• The Bernina Express trains are designed to offer a comfortable and visually immersive experience. The carriages are equipped with panoramic windows that allow for unobstructed views of the surrounding scenery.
• The trains are modern and well-maintained, featuring spacious seats and large windows that extend from the floor to the ceiling, enhancing the viewing experience.
• The train also features multilingual audio commentary, providing information about the landscapes and regions the train passes through, making it both an educational and aesthetic journey.

4. Connection with Other Scenic Routes

• The Bernina Express is often part of a larger network of scenic routes that can be combined for a more extensive Swiss travel experience. Passengers can connect to the Glacier Express and the GoldenPass Line, two other famous Swiss scenic train routes, which further enhances the travel experience for those wishing to explore more of the Swiss Alps.

5. Seasonal Variations

• The Bernina Express offers a different experience depending on the season. In summer, the route is lush with green fields, wildflowers, and alpine meadows. The higher sections of the route also provide spectacular views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks.
• In winter, the route takes on a more serene and crisp character, with snow-covered mountains and frozen lakes creating a picturesque winter wonderland. Many travelers opt for the winter journey to experience the charm of the Alps covered in snow, and the train's warm interiors offer comfort against the cold.

6. Ticket and Booking Information

• Tickets for the Bernina Express are available through the official Rhaetian Railway website and can be booked in advance. The train is popular with tourists, so it is advisable to book tickets early, especially during peak travel seasons.
• A reservation fee is required in addition to the regular train fare for the Bernina Express. Travelers can also book a first-class seat for added comfort and a more exclusive experience.
• The train runs daily, but it's best to check the schedule in advance, especially if you're planning to travel during the busy summer months or holidays.

7. Stops Along the Route

The Bernina Express makes several scenic stops along its route, where passengers can disembark and explore the area or take photos. Some notable stops include:

• Pontresina: A charming village at the foot of the Bernina range.
• Alp Grüm: Famous for panoramic views of glaciers and the Val Poschiavo valley.
• Tirano: The final destination in Italy, a picturesque town known for its Italian architecture and vineyards.

8. Environmental and Historical Significance

• The Bernina Express is part of the Rhaetian Railway, which was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its impressive engineering and historical significance. The line is a marvel of engineering, with switchbacks, bridges, and tunnels built to navigate the challenging terrain of the Alps.
• The journey through the Bernina region is also an ecological and environmental treasure, as the area is home to rare and diverse wildlife, as well as protected areas of natural beauty.

9. How to Experience the Bernina Express

• Travelers can enjoy the Bernina Express in its full-day format from Chur to Tirano, or they can opt for a half-day route, departing from Pontresina or St. Moritz. Some travelers may also combine the journey with a return trip on a different scenic route, such as the Glacier Express or the Gotthard Panorama Express.

Conclusion

The Bernina Express offers an unparalleled journey through the Swiss Alps, blending the beauty of nature with the luxury and comfort of train travel. Whether you're traveling for the first time or a seasoned traveler looking for one of the most iconic routes in the world, the Bernina Express promises an unforgettable experience. Its dramatic scenery, exceptional engineering, and seamless connection between Switzerland and Italy make it a must-do adventure for anyone visiting the region.