St Moritz is known for its decadence. The pinnacle of luxury skiing, there are few better ways to coast into town for the season than aboard the spectacular Red Train. But, before you disembark and check into The Carlton Hotel — itself a bastion of luxury sitting on the sun-soaked plateau above the lake — you’ve got an hours-long journey through the twisting, picturesque countryside to enjoy.
From glaciers to palms, the Rhaetian Railway-controlled Bernina Express is the most extravagant and exclusive way to cross the Alps. Spanning cultures, languages and landscapes, it climbs to the glistening glaciers before descending to the palms of Italy far below.
And they know just how good they’ve got it. The trains are equipped with special panoramic windows to ensure you get that perfect Instagram shot as your carriage negotiates the 55 tunnels, 196 bridges and steep inclines (of up to 7 per cent) to get you to your destination.
And watch out for one particular section — between Thusis and Tirano — which boasts UNESCO World Heritage status, one of the only railways in the world to do so.
Operated independently until the 1940s — construction finished in 1910 — the Bernina line remains one of the only lines in the world that is as spectacular in the brilliant white out of winter as it is in the sun-drenched summer.
So all aboard, gents. Grab you ticket – and you skis – and make for the Red Train.
Fancy something a little more tropical? This is our favourite Fijian haunt…
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
