Depart Zürich on a comfortable intercity train heading east towards Chur, Switzerland’s oldest town. Enjoy changing landscapes along the way: the serene blue waters of Lake Zürich, followed by the impressive Walensee, framed by the dramatic Churfirsten mountain range. Vineyards line the slopes as the train winds through the Sarganserland region, giving a first taste of the alpine scenery to come. This is a relaxing introduction to the journey—already showcasing lakes, peaks, and Swiss precision rail travel before you even reach the Rhaetian Railway’s historic tracks in Chur.

Board the Rhaetian Railway’s Albula Line, one of the most spectacular narrow-gauge routes in the world. Leaving Chur, the red train soon climbs gently through the Domleschg Valley, dotted with castles and fruit orchards. The line begins to twist into the mountains, following the rushing Albula River through forests and rocky gorges. Look out for elegant stone viaducts, short tunnels, and classic Swiss villages such as Thusis and Tiefencastel. Every curve offers a new postcard view of peaks and valleys as the engineering masterpiece of the Albula Line gradually reveals itself on the way to Filisur, gateway to the iconic Landwasser Viaduct.

Arriving at Filisur, we pause to admire one of Switzerland’s most photographed landmarks — the Landwasser Viaduct, a six-arched limestone bridge soaring 65 meters above the valley floor. From the station, an optional short hike (about 20–40 minutes round trip) leads to a panoramic viewpoint offering breathtaking perspectives as the red trains curve gracefully onto the viaduct and disappear into the mountain tunnel beyond. In summer, a small tourist train or shuttle sometimes operates between Filisur station and the viewing platform, offering an easier way to reach the photo spot. Whether you walk or ride, this stop captures the essence of the UNESCO-listed Albula Line — bold engineering set amidst untouched alpine beauty.

Reboard the red Rhaetian Railway train for a brief but stunning ride to Bergün. This stretch of the Albula Line is packed with engineering marvels: the track climbs through a first spiral tunnel that allows the train to gain altitude smoothly without rack assistance. The scenery shifts from deep forested valleys to open alpine slopes, where you can see the line you just traveled below — a fascinating sight from your window.

We reach the charming mountain village of Bergün, set along the Albula River and surrounded by peaks. Here, the Albula Train Museum invites us to step back more than a century in time. Discover the fascinating story of how the Rhaetian Railway was built through such challenging alpine terrain, and see original models, historic documents, tools, and interactive exhibits that bring railway engineering to life. Outside, the railway itself continues to spiral and twist through tunnels and stone bridges visible from the village, offering a perfect link between the museum’s history and the living railway that still runs beside it today.

Leaving Bergün, the train begins one of the most remarkable stretches of railway engineering in the world. The Albula Line climbs through a series of spiral tunnels and tall viaducts, curling around mountain slopes to overcome enormous elevation differences without cogwheels. The scenery becomes increasingly alpine: lush meadows, stone villages, and snow-capped peaks unfold as the train passes Preda and reaches the Albula Tunnel, piercing through the mountain crest. Emerging on the Engadin side, the landscape opens to wide valleys and shimmering lakes. Shortly afterwards, the train glides into St. Moritz, the legendary resort town known for its chic atmosphere, bright lake, and surrounding mountains — a perfect place to stretch your legs, take photos, or enjoy a coffee with a view.

Arriving in St. Moritz, we step into one of Switzerland’s most pristine alpine resorts, nestled beside a shimmering lake at 1,800 meters. Enjoy some leisure time to explore the lakeside promenade, the town’s old streets, and historic landmarks such as the grand hotels that have welcomed travelers for over a century, or simply soak in the Engadin sunshine and crisp mountain air. In summer, the lakeshore comes alive with walkers and sailing boats, while in winter, snow-covered roofs and frozen lakes create a magical setting. Stop by one of the inviting cafés for a coffee and pastry, and take in the calm elegance of this mountain retreat. Whether you prefer quiet reflection or a glimpse of St. Moritz’s glamorous side, this stop offers a refreshing contrast to the wild alpine scenery experienced along the railway journey.

Our train journey continues through wide valleys, rivers, and mountain villages as the landscape opens toward the Lower Engadine, arriving in Sagliains surrounded by dramatic peaks and pristine nature.

After our visit to St. Moritz, we board the train for the return trip through an entirely different route. The Vereina Base Tunnel, stretching 19 kilometres beneath the Alps, one of Switzerland’s longest railway tunnels and a more modern engineering masterpiece linking the Engadin with the Prättigau Valley. Emerging on the northern side, the scenery changes from high alpine peaks to green valleys and picturesque villages such as Klosters, surrounded by forests and traditional wooden houses. Relax and enjoy the smooth ride as we roll past mountain pastures and through charming landscapes on the way back. This quiet finale offers time to reflect on the day’s journey — from century-old railway heritage to state-of-the-art Swiss engineering, framed by some of the country’s most beautiful natural settings.

From Chur, we continue our journey back to Zürich on the main line, passing the lakes and vineyards we admired earlier in the day. Optionally, you can round off the trip with a meal in the train’s dining car — a special experience that combines good food, warm atmosphere, and the quiet rhythm of travel. While the menu offers a mix of Swiss and international dishes, it’s the setting that makes it memorable: sharing a relaxed dinner as the scenery fades into evening light — a gentle close to a varied and inspiring day.