Bernina Express: Why You Should See the Swiss Alps by Train
The Swiss Alps have a world renowned reputation for their spectacular views of pine-covered mountains, glistening lakes and views that you won’t get anywhere else; making it almost surreal. The best way to catch these idyllic landscapes is through the infamous Bernina Express - coined as the ‘most beautiful train ride of Switzerland’ - will allow you to get breathtaking views of different iconic locations through a relaxing train ride. Many of the guests that stay in our Alpine Hotel are offered a 15-minute shuttle service to Tirano, a starting point of the Bernina Express.
“BREATHTAKING, SPECTACULAR VIEWS”
Sit down, get comfortable and gaze at through the panoramic windows of the Bernina Express and see breathtaking, spectacular views as it travels through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges while you are about 2,253 meters above sea level. The route our guests usually take is from Tirano, travelling through to St. Moritz and if they wish, further into Switzerland and into the village of Chur. This is not an everyday experience, but a unique one that you will remember for a lifetime. The views are a perfect camera opportunity for any photography enthusiast - why not see some of our iPhone Travel Photography Tips. You will see iconic landmarks such as the Brusio Circular Viaduct and the Landwasser Viaduct - bridge structures that carry you over a valley or rivers. From Tirano to St. Moritz (the luxury Alpine resort town), it only takes about 2 and a half hours to get there, allowing you to have fantastic views but also it can get you to your skiing activities in no time.
LANDMARKS INCLUDE:
Brusio Circular Viaduct
The Brusio Circular Viaduct is an interesting build, this 360-degree spiral track was built in 1908 and was made to ensure that the train does not slope too quickly on the way down or slip on the way up.
Landwasser Viaduct
The Landwasser Viaduct is a magnificent structure overlooking the beautiful vast valleys and forestry below, the pillar were first constructed in 1901 and 1902 and were considered an architectural feat. It is one of the most popular photography points on the trip.
“UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE”
The Bernina Express was completed in 1910 and run by the ‘Rhaetian Railway’ which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site by the committee in 2008, which was a wondrous feat for the trains. To be recognised by the UNESCO committee is an achievement, as the railway would have met the strict criteria, such as criteria (vii) which states that the area should contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional beauty and aesthetic importance - which is clearly evident from the breathtaking, natural beauty of the Swiss and Italian Alps. Being recognised and confirmed as a heritage site, is all the more reason why the Bernina Express should be one for the bucket lists.
Source: Rhaetian Railway
Source: Triposo
"EXCELLENT SERVICE”
The train offers exceptional services, allowing you to be more at ease and in comfort when you are travelling through the railway. Immerse yourself in to the beauty of the mountains and valleys with narrations throughout the whole journey, allowing you learn about the most interesting facts about each areas you encounter on the Bernina Express. Furthermore, if you are worried about any language barriers as many of the employees are multilingual - speaking up to even 10 languages according to TripAdvisor reviews. And if you are feeling peckish, there is a food trolley that is pushed through to offer you delicious sandwiches and beverages. Both first class and second class seats are comfortable, but if you are willing to spend a little bit more - first class can offer you more space.
OUR TIPS AND TRICKS
Here are a few tips and tricks that may help you with booking and staying at the Bernina Express:
Bring your own food - You can save money by purchasing meals and snacks beforehand, as the selection may not be as large on the train. But also, if you are staying at our Alpine Hotel in the Italian Alps, you can go have a meal at our Restaurant before you leave to go to Tirano.
There is no wifi on board - take it as a positive so that you know that you can fully immerse yourself in the alps without the disturbance of technology.
Consider the rail passes you can use - A ride in the Bernina Express is included in railpasses such as the Eurorail Passes and the Swiss Travel Passes.
I hope that this convinces you why you should go see the Swiss and Italian Alps through the Bernina Express. To make the journey easier, why not stay at the Albergo Miramonti ? You can enjoy the hotel by the Italian Alps, then take one of our shuttle buses to travel to Tirano, and we can pick you up once the train returns back, then after that, you can relax back into one of our many contemporary rooms and suites or relax in our spa - it’s up to you.
Read more articles about the alps and outdoor activities in our blog: