Rhaetian Railway in the Albula / Bernina Landscapes

The Rhaetian Railway is a mountain line stretching about 384 kilometers through the Alps, connecting Grisons in Switzerland with Sondrio Province in Italy. The route crosses steep mountain passes and valleys using 13 tunnels and 52 viaducts, with the Bernina Pass at 2,253 meters being the highest point.

Construction began in 1889 between Landquart and Klosters, with the Albula section completed in 1903 and the Bernina section in 1910. This gradual expansion made it possible to connect remote valleys and villages in the Alps to the railway network for the first time.

The stations along the route display architecture that blends building traditions from Swiss and Italian alpine communities. Visitors notice how these structures reflect the craftsmanship and building styles that shaped these mountain regions over time.

Trains run year-round between Tirano and St. Moritz, with panoramic cars available for mountain views. Visitors should expect changing conditions depending on the season, as snow and weather can significantly affect the mountains.

The Landwasser Viaduct is a striking structure where trains curve directly into a mountain tunnel after crossing a 65-meter high stone arch. This curved design was an innovative solution for handling the steep terrain.

Location: Canton of the Grisons

Location: Province of Sondrio

GPS coordinates: 46.40890,10.01970

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:42