The Bernina Pass (Berninapass), at 2,328 m in the canton of Graubünden in eastern Switzerland, links the Engadin valley around St. Moritz with the Italian-speaking Val Poschiavo and, beyond it, Tirano in Italy. On the pass sits Lago Bianco (the 'White Lake'), a reservoir dammed in the early 20th century whose milky, pale-turquoise colour comes from fine glacial silt washed down from the Cambrena Glacier; it also marks a continental watershed, sending water east to the Black Sea and south to the Adriatic. The UNESCO-listed Rhaetian Railway Bernina line runs right along its shore, and in 2026 the site remains one of Switzerland's signature scenic stretches, reachable year-round by both the Bernina Express and ordinary regional trains.
The milky, pale-turquoise Lago Bianco set against blue sky, lingering snow, and mountains mirrored in its surface
Ospizio Bernina station (2,253 m), the highest adhesion-railway point in Europe, and the UNESCO World Heritage Bernina line trains
The rare continental watershed here, where water parts eastward to the Black Sea and southward to the Adriatic
The contrast with neighbouring Lej Nair (the natural 'Black Lake') and the small Lej Pitschen just beside Lago Bianco
The gentle panoramic walk from Ospizio Bernina down to Alp Grüm (about 4.4 km) or the roughly 8 km lakeside loop
Good to know
SeasonAt 2,300+ m it stays cool with lingering snow even in summer. Hiking is most comfortable roughly June–October; outside that window trails may be snow-covered or icy, so check conditions before you go.
SafetyHigh-alpine weather changes fast and winds are strong. Bring a windproof, warm layer, grippy hiking shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen even in midsummer, and avoid exposed walking in fog or gusts.
RulesThe Bernina Express (panoramic train) requires a mandatory seat reservation, and fares and times vary by season. Rail-pass holders still need a separate seat reservation, so verify the latest details with the official RhB.
MannersThis is a drinking-water reservoir and protected natural area. Carry out all litter, keep to marked paths, and stay quiet and considerate of other passengers and locals when taking photos.
CautionMany top-ranked 'booking' sites are unofficial resellers that add markups. Buy tickets and seat reservations through the official Rhaetian Railway (RhB) or SBB channels, and check the total price before paying.
SafetyIf crossing by car, the pass road (Hauptstrasse 29) is generally open all year, but heavy snow can bring temporary closures or chain requirements. In winter, snow tyres or chains and a road-status check are essential.
Practical info
From St. Moritz or Pontresina, take the Rhaetian Railway Bernina line and get off at Ospizio Bernina (2,253 m), right on the lakeshore. The Bernina Express requires a seat reservation (regional trains use the same line without one); confirm current fares, timetables and road status with the official RhB and Switzerland Tourism channels before your visit.
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