Exploring alpine landscapes: 6 must-visit destinations in the Swiss Engadine Alps' railroad and glacier trails
Nestled in the heart of Switzerland lies Graubuenden, a region that offers an ethereal wonderland of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. One such valley is the Engadine Valley, stretching 60 miles across the region and changing with the seasons.
The journey begins in Bergün, a hillside village nestled between snow-capped mountains at the foot of the Albula Pass. Bergün is adorned with ornately decorated chalets featuring sgraffito, frescoes, and oriel windows in traditional Engadine style. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the village, taking in the charming architecture and the breathtaking views.
Just a short distance away lies Parc Ela, Switzerland's largest nature park. Teeming with lakes, meadows, and hiking trails, Parc Ela offers a haven for nature lovers. The 11-mile Albula Railway Trail leads hikers through this wild landscape, traversing historic villages, glacial lakes, and deep-cutting Alpine valleys.
For those seeking panoramic views, the Muottas-Muragl funicular in Pontresina is a must-visit. At 2,300 feet above sea level, it offers stunning vistas of Piz Palü and Piz Bernina, two of Graubuenden's most striking peaks.
Pontresina is not just a mountain village; it's a hub for outdoor activities. Hiking trails, mountain biking routes, ski runs, and climbing trails abound, catering to all levels of adventure seekers. For a unique challenge, the Morteratsch Glacier Trail is a two-hour, out-and-back journey that leads to the glacier's tongue, a blue ice crevasse stretching two-and-a-half miles deep.
As you venture further into the Engadine Valley, you'll come across Alp Grüm, a remote railway station accessible only by train or on foot. Located in the Italian-speaking Val Poschiavo, Alp Grüm offers stunning views of the Engadine Alps and Lake Palü's vibrant, blue-green waters. Here, you can dine on Graubünden specialities like pizzoccheri and capuns at Albergo Ristorante Alp Grüm.
No trip to Graubuenden would be complete without a visit to the Brusio Circular Viaduct, a masterpiece of engineering and design. Constructed in 1908 to maintain the Bernina railway's gradient at a maximum of 7%, the Brusio Circular Viaduct loops a full 360 degrees, featuring nine arches, each 33 feet in diameter. The Brusio Circular Viaduct, designed by Giovanni Traverso, offers a unique contrast against the backdrop of craggy rock faces and lush grassy plains.
For another engineering marvel, take a scenic hike or a 30-minute ride on the Landwasser Express to view the Landwasser Viaduct. This six-arch structure, located in the Landwasser Valley, is one of Graubuenden's most iconic landmarks and is part of the UNESCO-listed Albula-Bernina railway line, constructed in 1901.
Lastly, the glamorous mountain resort of St Moritz, on the shores of Lake St Moritz, has been central to Swiss Alpine tourism since 1864. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from winter sports to summer hikes. The four-mile Water Trail in St Moritz hops between six glistening mountain lakes on the way to Alp Munt, offering a scenic hike within the Bernina Mountain Range.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of traditional Swiss culture, Graubuenden's Engadine Valley has something for everyone. So pack your bags and embark on a journey through this enchanting region.
Read also:
- Understanding Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis: Key Facts
- Stopping Osteoporosis Treatment: Timeline Considerations
- Expanded Community Health Involvement by CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, Maintained Through Consistent Outreach Programs Across Rajasthan
- Abdominal Fat Accumulation: Causes and Strategies for Reduction
