Bernina Express

Bernina Express on Wiesner Viaduct.

The Glacier Express may be more famous, but Switzerland's Bernina Express is that train's equal--or better--when it comes to spectacular scenery. In his essential guidebook for Alpine train travelers, Switzerland by Rail, Anthony Lambert writes:

This line is the highest rail crossing of the Alps, helping to make it one of Europe's outstanding train journeys. Where else can you travel from glaciers to palm trees in two hours? In summer open-air cars enable passengers to experience the views and glorious air without the interference of glass, making it perfect for photographers. The climb is made even more astonishing by the fact that it is achieved without rack assistance [cogwheels], compelling the builders to devise tortuous loops and spirals to gain or lose height. Sit on the right."

The Rhaetian Railway's Bernina Express offers a choice of two routes:

• Chur-St. Moritz-Tirano (or reverse)

• Chur-Davos-Tirano (or reverse)

Schedules vary by season, with extra trains in summer. Check the official timetables (see links on next page) and book in advance, since seat reservations are mandatory.

When you reach Tirano, you have several choices:

1. Explore the palm-shaded town center briefly or have a quick lunch, then return to St. Moritz or Chur on the westbound Bernina Express.

2. Catch the connecting bus for the three-hour road trip to the Swiss city of Lugano (Canton Ticino).

3. Continue on to Milan via Sondrio and Lecco, Italy by train. Travel time is about 2½ to 2¾ hours.

Sightseeing, Related Web sites

Continued on page 2

Photo © Swiss-Image.ch.

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