Rhaetian Railway in the Albula / Bernina Landscapes
Graubünden
The Rhaetian Railway in the Albula and Bernina Landscapes is a spectacular narrow-gauge railway system located in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. Established in 1888, it comprises a network of 385 kilometers that connects numerous alpine destinations, including the renowned resorts of St. Moritz and Davos. The network is famous for its engineering feats, including 84 tunnels and 383 bridges, such as the iconic Landwasser Viaduct which seamlessly transitions into the Landwasser Tunnel. The Albula and Bernina lines traverse challenging mountainous terrain, with the Bernina line reaching elevations of 2,254 meters above sea level, crossing the Bernina Pass and extending into Italy at Tirano. This railway was the first in the world to be photographed and featured on Google Street View, highlighting its global significance. Its electrification is unique, with sections operating at different voltages reflecting historical development. The railway continues to operate historic trains, offering visitors a chance to experience alpine travel as it was in the early 20th century. In 2008, the Albula/Bernina section was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and technological importance. The railway remains vital for both tourism and local commuters, blending breathtaking natural landscapes with pioneering railway engineering.
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Astuce: Visit during late spring to early autumn for optimal weather and scenic views. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for historic or panoramic trains. Discounts are often available for seniors, families, and groups. Check the official Rhaetian Railway website for seasonal schedules and special events. Consider combining your journey with hiking or sightseeing in the surrounding alpine regions for a richer experience.
Faits intéressants
- •The Albula-Bernina railway was the first railway line in the world to be photographed and made available on Google Street View.
- •The network includes the Landwasser Viaduct, an iconic railway bridge that leads directly into a tunnel, exemplifying engineering excellence.
- •The Bernina line reaches an altitude of 2,254 meters, making it one of the highest railways in Europe.
- •In 2022, to celebrate Switzerland's railway anniversary, RhB operated the world's longest passenger train, nearly two kilometers long with 100 cars.
- •The railway network consists of 84 tunnels and 383 bridges, showcasing remarkable alpine engineering.
Histoire
The Rhaetian Railway was founded in 1888 by Dutch hotelier Willem Jan Holsboer, initially to connect Landquart and Davos.
Starting as a narrow-gauge line due to the challenging mountainous terrain, it rapidly expanded over the next decades.
By 1903, the Albula line was operational, followed by the Bernina line crossing into Italy.
The network grew steadily until 1922, becoming a key infrastructure in Graubünden.
In 2008, the Albula and Bernina lines were recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cementing their historical and cultural significance.
The railway has continuously modernized, including electrification and tunnel expansions, while preserving its heritage and scenic routes.
Guide du lieu
Landwasser Viaduct1902
A stunning curved limestone railway viaduct that spans the Landwasser River, leading directly into the Landwasser Tunnel. It is a symbol of the Rhaetian Railway and a masterpiece of early 20th-century engineering.
Bernina Line1910
A scenic railway route crossing the Bernina Pass at 2,254 meters, connecting St. Moritz in Switzerland to Tirano in Italy. It is renowned for its steep gradients and breathtaking alpine vistas.
Albula Line1903
A railway line running from Thusis to St. Moritz, famous for its numerous tunnels, bridges, and spiral loops that navigate the challenging alpine terrain.