Bernina Pass

Open all year round.

The Bernina Pass is located in the canton of Graubünden, in Switzerland, at an altitude of 2,330 meters. It is one of the most scenic alpine passes in the Rhaetian Alps and provides direct communication between Valtellina, from Tirano, and Engadin, passing through Valposchiavo.

It is named after the majestic Piz Bernina, the highest peak in the eastern Alps (4,042 m), which towers nearby. The road, wide and perfectly maintained, offers a spectacular route through snow-capped peaks, sparkling glaciers, and ever-changing landscapes at every turn.
From the viewpoint of the pass, one can admire the glacier of Piz Cambrena, Lake Bianco, and Lake Nero, settings that attract travelers and mountain lovers from all over the world. The pass also marks a cultural watershed: ascending from Tirano to the pass, where Valposchiavo ends, Italian is spoken, while beyond, as one enters Engadin, Romansh and German dominate.
Isolated and lacking major populated centers, the Bernina Pass is an ideal destination for a car or motorcycle excursion and represents the natural passage for those, starting from Sondrio or Valtellina, who wish to reach St. Moritz, immersed in the beauty of the Swiss mountains.

FAQ

• When is it mandatory to mount winter tires and/or have snow chains on board?
  For the Province of Sondrio, from October 15 to April 30, it is mandatory to have snow chains on board and/or winter tires (it is advisable to have both)
• Do I need a valid document for expatriation to reach the Bernina Pass?
  Yes, it is necessary to carry a valid document for expatriation (identity card and/or passport) for both adults and children (State border at Tirano)
• Can I reach the Bernina Pass by public transport?
  Yes, via the Little Red Train of Bernina, operated by the Rhaetian Railway, departing from Tirano