From Zermatt to St. Moritz on the Glacier Express

The Glacier Express is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular trains in the world. The luxurious Alpine convoy connects the glittering Zermatt, at the foot of the Matterhorn, with the no less fashionable St. Moritz. During the eight-hour journey through the cantons of Valais, Uri and Graubünden, it disappears into 91 tunnels and balances on 291 bridges, many of which are true engineering masterpieces from the pioneering era of the railways. In the comfortable carriages, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows offer enchanting views of imposing mountain landscapes, tradition-rich health resorts, deep gorges and picturesque valleys. With fresh menus from the on-board kitchen, the Glacier Express also travels at the highest culinary level. Just before Stalden, the 'land of bridges', the Glacier Express latches onto the cogwheel with a metallic snap. Only thanks to this, the slowest express train in the world manages to overcome the short climb with a gradient of 125 per thousand, the steepest and one of the most spectacular sections of the route. At 2,033 metres at the Oberalp Pass, the Glacier Express reaches its highest altitude. Here, in the dining car, it was customary to say 'Tournez les verres': before the train started its descent, it was necessary to rotate the inclined wine glasses, specially made for the Glacier-Express. Among the addresses in Zermatt, the Hotel Carina, an innovative 3-star hotel with a wonderful view of the Matterhorn, deserves a mention.