Europe’s ‘highest train’ that passes 76 miles over stunning mountains

Travelling by train is an excellent way to see Europe while taking in stunning views of picturesque countryside and mountains, and there’s one route in particular that will leave you stunned.

The Bernina Express, the highest open-air rail crossing of the Alps, is a sight to behold. This narrow-gauge railway route, one of only three railway World Heritage Sites, offers an awe-inspiring blend of engineering marvels and majestic landscapes.

The Landwasser Viaduct, one of Switzerland’s most photographed structures, curves into a vertical rock wall as the railway tunnels into the valley side.

Departing from Bergun, the train embarks on a thrilling journey, winding up four spirals, passing through five tunnels and over seven viaducts in a complex tangle of rails as it ascends to a summit tunnel.

South of St Moritz, the railway reaches its tallest at 2,257m above sea level amidst rugged mountains before descending into Val Poschiavo along a track so winding that passengers can sometimes see the front of the train travelling in the opposite direction from the rear.

All these wonders can be appreciated from panoramic coaches with glass roofs, offering unobstructed views of the numerous mountain peaks.

The Bernina Express takes roughly four hours to complete 76-mile journey through stunning mountains that can be seen covered in snow if you time your journey right.

During the summer months, the Bernina Express operates as a special separate train journeying from Chur to Pontresina with minimal stops.

Upon reaching Pontresina, the train is switched due to the different electricity current of the Bernina line, and the train proceeds with limited stops to Tirano.

During the autumn, winter and spring seasons, the Bernina Express consists of several carriages that are attached to regional services.

Each of these Bernina Express trains features designated carriages for passengers holding only regional train tickets.

A second-class ticket will set you back around £60. For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, Great Rail Journeys’ Mountaintops of Switzerland escorted tour includes the Bernina Express, priced from £3,499 per person.