Right on the doorstep of Chesa Michel lies one of the greatest railway experiences in the world: the Rhaetian Railway not only connects Bever conveniently with all its neighbouring villages, but with its Albula and Bernina lines it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a technical masterpiece. The route has been part of the World Heritage since 2008 – as testimony to how people and landscape work together in the high mountains.
Bernina Express – key facts
- Route
- Chur–Tirano, approx. 144 km
- Journey time
- approx. 4–4.5 hours
- Highest point
- Ospizio Bernina, 2,253 m above sea level
- Structures
- 196 bridges, 55 tunnels, gradients up to 70 ‰ – without a rack rail
- UNESCO World Heritage
- Albula/Bernina since 2008
- From Bever
- Station on the Albula line, connection via Samedan/Pontresina
From glaciers to palm trees
A ride on the legendary Bernina Express leads from the Engadine plateau across the Bernina massif and down into the Italian Valtellina to Tirano. Passing the shimmering turquoise Lago Bianco, the glowing Morteratsch Glacier and the famous Brusio spiral viaduct, the railway overcomes enormous differences in altitude entirely without a rack rail – between glaciers and palm trees. In just a few hours you experience a change of climate that would otherwise require hundreds of kilometres.
The Albula line
The nearby Albula line is an experience too: with its bold viaducts, the famous Landwasser Viaduct and numerous spiral tunnels, it is one of the most beautiful mountain railways in the world. From Bever or nearby Spinas you can make wonderful day trips – for example to Bergün and the Albula Railway Museum, which brings the line’s history to life.
More than a train ride
Whether as a relaxed bad-weather programme or a deliberately chosen highlight: a journey through this cultural landscape is a feast and a marvel at once – and an unforgettable experience for the whole family. From Bever you are quickly out on the line and return in the evening to the peace of the village.
Good to know for the journey
If you want to travel in the official Bernina Express panorama carriage, it is best to reserve early – the trains are popular, especially in high season. Just as beautiful and more flexible is the trip on the regular regional trains of the Rhaetian Railway: they serve the same route, cost less and allow stopovers, for example at Alp Grüm (2,091 m) or the Diavolezza. With a half-fare card or the right route ticket, the outing becomes considerably cheaper.
More inspiration in the Journal – or view the holiday apartments and check availability.
