This rail journey on the Albula and Bernina line is the highest railway crossing of the Alps, is the only one to cross them above ground and is one of the best known in Switzerland.
Operated by Rhaetian Railways, both the Bernina line and the Albula line on the Bernina Express route were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008. UNESCO World Heritage recognises places of special cultural or physical significance and states the Rhaetian Railway of Albula/Bernina constitutes an outstanding technical, architectural and environmental ensemble.
The 4-hour rail journey passes through 55 tunnels, crosses 196 bridges and amazes rail enthusiasts by climbing to over 7,391 feet at the summit of the Bernina Pass without the help of rack and pinion (tooth wheeled) mechanism.
The ingenious use of loops and spirals, particularly between Bergun and Preda, makes this incredible journey possible. Magnificent views of mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, gorges and snowfields can be seen in all their glory from the train's panoramic windowed first and second class coaches.
Facilities on Board the Bernina Express
Seating is comfortable and the coaches are air conditioned with ample toilets. Rail staff come around selling refreshments from a very interesting trolley, with a life sized Ibex mountain goat's head on the front. This causes much amusement and clicking of cameras amongst the passengers.
The train has access for the disabled and coaches are roomy. No view is missed due to the panoramic windows enabling both overhead and side vision. There are photo opportunities aplenty although the reflection from the windows may be evident in some shots.
Bernina Express Main Stops
There are many stations on this journey and stops will depend on the time of year you are travelling. Main station stops on the way are:
- Chur – starting station
- Thusis
- Filisur
- Samedan
- Pontresina
- Ospizio Bernina
- Alp Grum
- Poschiavo
- Tirano -– destination station
Highlights of the Journey
There are too many highlights to mention on this trip. Every twist, turn and climb brings another wonder into sight. However, the following definitely caused the most interest in our carriage.
Spiral staircase – between Berdun and Preda, the train winds upwards through five loop and two normal tunnels. It crosses two viaducts and goes under two galleries. In the space of 12.6 kilometers, the line climbs 416 metres.
Landwasser viaduct – a curved viaduct 130 meters in length and supported by six arches towering hundreds of feet above the valley floor and entering a tunnel in the rock face.
Herds of Ibex mountain goats can be seen in Graubunden depending on the season. These are symbolic of the area, hence the goat's head trolley on the train.
Tips for Travellers on the Bernina Express
- You will need your passport as the train crosses the border between Switzerland and Italy.
- Take some euros as well as Swiss francs for spending on both sides of the borders.
- Take a camera to capture the beauty of the Alps and places of interest on the way.
- A pair of binoculars are always useful to admire the stunning scenery on this journey.
Although the famous Glacier express is known worldwide, the Bernina express has as much to offer for rail enthusiasts and lovers of scenic beauty, and model- rail builders must surely go home bursting with ideas for a new challenge.
Daphne Green - Daphne Green is a freelance writer of articles and short stories. Among her interests are horse riding, health and fitness, travel and ...
