Alp Grüm: A Jewel on the Bernina Line

Experience car-free tranquility at Alp Grüm, a jewel on the Bernina Line with stunning views of glaciers and the Val Poschiavo.

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Alp Grüm

Alp Grüm is a picturesque settlement in the Swiss Alps, famed for its car-free tranquility and stunning views. Accessible only by train or foot, it's a highlight on the Bernina Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering panoramic vistas of the Palü Glacier and the Val Poschiavo. The charming station building houses a restaurant and hotel, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and rail enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Alp Grüm

Alp Grüm, CH

Local tips

Take the Bernina Express for a scenic journey to Alp Grüm, but consider the regional trains for a more affordable option.
Hike down to Lago Palü for stunning reflections and a closer experience with the alpine scenery.
Visit the Ristorante Alp Grüm for local cuisine and panoramic views from the sun terrace.
Explore the Cavaglia glacier mills, a short detour from Alp Grüm, to witness unique geological formations.

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Getting There

Train

The most common way to arrive at Alp Grüm is via the Bernina Railway. From St. Moritz, take the regional train towards Tirano. The journey takes approximately 53 minutes and costs between CHF 13-16. Trains depart hourly. Alternatively, from Tirano, Italy, a train ride to Alp Grüm takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes and costs CHF 12-15. Ensure to check the train schedules in advance.
Walking

For those who enjoy hiking, Alp Grüm can be reached on foot via several trails. From Ospizio Bernina, follow the Puschlav Panorama Path, which runs alongside Lago Bianco. The hike is relatively easy and offers stunning views. Alternatively, hike from Bernina Pass to Alp Grüm, which is approximately 5.5 km and takes around 90 minutes. Note that the trail involves some elevation change.

Discover more about Alp Grüm

Alp Grüm, perched at 2,091 meters (6,860 feet) above sea level, is a unique destination in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. This tiny hamlet, part of the Poschiavo municipality, is best known for its railway station on the Bernina Line, a remarkable feat of engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What sets Alp Grüm apart is its inaccessibility by road; it can only be reached by train or on foot, lending it a serene, remote atmosphere that captivates visitors. The Alp Grüm station itself is a sight to behold. Constructed of natural stone, the station building, which also houses a hotel and restaurant, exudes old-world charm. Opened in 1926, it offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where travelers can savor regional specialties while enjoying breathtaking views from the sun terrace. From here, the panorama stretches across the Val Poschiavo, extending into Italy, and encompasses the majestic Palü Glacier. The journey to Alp Grüm is an experience in itself. The Bernina Railway, which connects St. Moritz with Tirano, Italy, makes a stop here, allowing passengers to soak in the incredible scenery. The train winds its way through tight curves and spiral tunnels, descending into the Italian-speaking Val Poschiavo with gradients of up to 7%. The neighboring station, Cavaglia, lies 400 meters below, a mere 1.5 kilometers away in a straight line, yet 6 kilometers by rail. For those seeking outdoor adventures, Alp Grüm serves as a gateway to numerous hiking trails. A popular route leads to Lago Palü, a stunning alpine lake reflecting the surrounding peaks. Hikers can also explore the Puschlav panorama path, part of the Via Valtellina, offering breathtaking views of the valley. Shorter excursions lead to the Cavaglia glacier mills, the Val da Camp nature reserve, and the Sassal Masone vantage point. Alp Grüm's history is intertwined with the construction of the Bernina Railway, which opened in 1910. The station was initially built as a crossing loop, and the current building was opened in 1923. Over the years, Alp Grüm has become a beloved destination for rail travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil escape in the heart of the Swiss Alps.