www.rhb.ch
Rhaetian Railway Inc Bahnhofstrasse 25 CH-7002 Chur Tel +41 (0)81 288 65 65 Fax +41 (0)81 288 61 05 railservice@rhb.ch www.rhb.ch
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Contura The magazine of the Rhaetian Railway
The Rhine Gorge
UNESCO World Heritage
Glacier Express
Between rocks and water
A journey back through time, in the new Railway Museum
A visit to the on-board kitchen 22.03.12 10:44
The RhB on the web www.rhb.ch
Community Details of current promotions, travel reports, impressions and video clips made by RhB fans can all be found on the „Rhätische Bahn AG” fan site on Facebook. Join the club! www.rhb.ch/facebook
How does a steam-powered snowplough keep the tracks clear in winter? What landscapes do our trains tackle in howling winds and harsh weather? Where do gourmet cuisine and train travel go together? www.rhb.ch/youtube
Saoseo: the legendary blue lake Way up in Valposchiavo, between the heights of the Bernina Pass and Poschiavo, in the Valley of Val di Campo, lies a place of peace and enchantment: the lake known as Lago di Saoseo. The shimmering, light-blue waters of the lake reflect the surrounding rocks under the morning sun. Some say that this is also the moment to catch the image of a ghostly face. Legend has it that such a face was seen long ago by a princess, whose heart was set on marrying a prince, and that the lake gets its colour from some blue flowers that she threw into its waters. Seeing the ghostly face in the water was the condition that the prince had placed on her marrying him. And who knows? Perhaps the legend still maintains its spell.
The Rhaetian Railway is Switzerland’s main Alpine rail operator. With its unique mountain routes, UNESCO World Heritage status and famous services like the Glacier and Bernina Express lines, it supplies a whole range of top-class rail travel experiences, with fantastic views included. www.rhb.ch/flickr
RhB-Newsletter Register for our newsletter, and be sure not to miss out on any of our current packages, discounts and brand-new offers aboard the Rhaetian Railway. www.rhb.ch/newsletter
RhB UNESCO World Heritage App for your iPhone Your mobile guide to the UNESCO World Heritage line The RhB iPhone App uses GPS technology to guide you along the Albula and Bernina lines. Interesting information on the railway and the places and sites to be found along the route is permanently available at the press of a button. www.rhb.ch/app
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Lake Saoseo, 2,028 metres above sea level. The lake can be reached, from the station at Poschiavo, by bus or on foot.
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Getting thing under way Allegra, dear Readers
Where is the source of the Rhine? The answer is Lake Toma, in Graubünden’s highlands. And did you know that the Anterior Rhine actually carved out the Ruinaulta Gorge, „Switzerland’s Grand Canyon“? Why all these questions? Such matters have concerned us here at the Rhaetian Railway for a long time, and particularly this Hans Amacker year, as we celebrate the hundredth anniversary of the Director Chur-to-Disentis section of the world-famous Glacier Express line. 2012 has also been designated „Water Year“ by the Swiss Tourism Authority. Up hill and down dale, always in movement, with the power to tackle the landscape and also to adapt to it – there is always something new to delight the visitor. Our new publication „Contura“ is therefore truly in tune with all this, with a name that echoes the contours on our map. We offer you a hearty welcome to Graubünden.
The RhB occasionally switches its points in an effort to change things for the better, and ensure that you catch the train on time. This, along with other factors, encouraged us to break new ground in our communications. This publication is the result. This annual publication is a magazine and catalogue combined. Continuing with the Martin Sturzenegger theme of water, it puts the accent firmly on the close reHead of Marketing lationship between our railway network and the area’s rivers and lakes. Now read on, and be pleasantly surprised by such items as the 40+ bubbling springs to be found in Scuol, or the wind and weather at the Bernina watershed, or the secret of maintaining the playing surface of the Davos Ice-Hockey Club. We have dug out a whole wealth of sources of inspiration and useful excursion tips for you to peruse. We wish you an enjoyable read, and hope to see you soon in Graubünden.
PS: Anything new to report? Please e-mail your feedback, contura@rhb.ch photos, requests and suggestions to:
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Which way?
List of contents
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Bernina Line Where weather systems clash
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Ruinaulta Where the Rhine moves mountains
Chur – Disentis / Mustér celebrations A century of running along the Rhine
42 Glacier Express On the slowest express train in the world, the galley is a hive of activity
Legal details: © Copyright / Published by: Rhätische Bahn AG, Bahnhofstrasse 25, 7002 Chur | Technical details: Rhaetian Railway | Text: panta rhei pr gmbh | Graphics: Süsskind SGD Chur | Photos: Archive of the Rhaetian Railway, A. Badrutt, B. Baltis, R. Canal, P. Donatsch, H. Egger, M. Felder, M. Galli, Foto Geiger, M. Haas, U. Homberger, Sammlung F. Huonder, T. Keller, J. Langhans, J. Menolfi, A. Mettler, R. Moiola, K. Redmond, I. Rütten, Chr. Sonderegger, J. Schweizer (SLF), M. Vogel, M. Wildi, M. Zanghellini | Printed in Switzerland, 1st edition, 2012
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16 Without water there is nothing Scena 12 With a sense of vocation Keeping things clean 16 Connection Seven in one go: From St. Moritz to Venice
54 So what does … … a snow and avalanche researcher do in summer? … the greenkeeper at the Kulm Golf Course do in winter? 58 Powerplay In the catacombs of the HCD
19 Who would have thought it? Key figures
64 Next stop … … Scuol!
20 Albula Railway Museum A new home for the „Crocodile“
68 Famous names A place of honour for our canton’s ambassadors
26 Bernina Line Where weather systems clash 30 Window seat 32 Ruinaulta Where the Rhine moves mountains 38 Chur – Disentis / Mustér celebrations A century of running along the Rhine 42 Glacier Express On the slowest express train in the world, the kitchen is a hive of activity
69 Reg. no. WR-S 3820 With a piano on board 70 Why doesn’t the train just slide backwards? The secret is adhesion 72 Design Vrin, Vals and Britain: all present in a single train 76 Getting under way The line network of the Rhaetian Railway 78 Dates for your diary Events at a glance
48 Via Veltliner – fine wines from northern Italy
80 Competition
50 A place in the sun Arosa: Sun terraces – for soaking up the vitamin D
82 RhB to hand brochures and tourist maps
81 Rail Shop
83 The RhB on the web more information
More information to the Bernina Express: webcode 33
How does the webcode work? Go to www.rhb.ch and enter the corresponding number in the „webcode“ field to obtain further information on the offer concerned.
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Without water there is nothing
Scena Bernina Express: the best view of Lake Bianco.  33
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Lake Bianco, 2,253 metres above sea level
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Glacier Garden of Cavaglia: a fascinating natural spectacle.  1754
Cavaglia, 1,752 metres above sea level
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Glacier Express: across wide fields of snow, through the Swiss Alps. 34
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Val Bever, 1,815 metres above sea level
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Sledging trains from Chur: 6 km of sledging fun between Preda and Bergün. 223
Preda, 1,789 metres above sea level – Bergün, 1,373 metres above sea level
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National park combination ticket: follow the river Inn to the national park centre at Zernez.  1039
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God Carolina near Brail, 1,568 metres above sea level
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Via Albula / Bernina: on foot to the rest area by the water.  1317
Lake Palpuogna above Preda, 1,367 metres above sea level
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With a sense of vocation
Keeping things clean
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Ruedi Pargetzi trained as a baker and pastry chef, before being tempted away by the Rhaetian Railway. As a track inspector, he had to carry out year-round checks of the rails between Chur and St. Peter. Today he is – literally – our proud upholder of cleanliness, as he and his team leave our trains spotless every morning. Two observation cars of the Glacier Express and a blue-liveried period carriage of the Pullman Express are slowly rolled into the „tunnel“. This is the term used by RhB maintenance staff to refer to the train-wash in Landquart. Items of rolling stock enter at one end, go through four washing procedures, and then come out spotlessly clean at the other. In the machine, which resembles an oversized car-wash, giant rotating brushes scrub and spray the roof and sides of each carriage. The members of the team manually scrub the buffers and steps between the individual carriages. „The machine would damage the carriages’ „I wanted to get out couplings and cables, so this job has to be done by hand“, says Ruedi Pargetzi. He is a section leader of the bakery and in the RhB's operational maintenance department work with my hands.“ in Landquart. Noise reigns inside the carriages. An Ruedi Pargetzi, section leader employee with a vacuum cleaner on his back is hard at work, cleaning the upholstered seats. The team of six men has just one hour to clean five carriages. The Rhaetian Railway aims to run clean trains at all times. The cleaning procedures used are carefully thought-out, and a mobile team accompanies each train on its journey, checking toilets and emptying litter bins as it goes along. Trains are also cleaned daily, whenever they make a longer stop at a station. Once a week, each locomotive and carriage runs through the „tunnel“ in Landquart, where it is cleaned inside and out and then subjected to a technical inspection. A major cleaning operation is carried out once a year.
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Watching the rails in all weathers „In ten months, we’ve completed 14,700 weekly and 360 annual cleaning operations here in Landquart“, says a proud Ruedi Pargetzi. He has been working in operational maintenance for ten years. But that was not his first job with us. Aged 50, he has been working on the Rhaetian Railway for 30 years. He originally trained as a baker and pastry chef. „But I wanted to get out of the bakery and do something skilled with my hands,“ he recounts. This is why he applied for a job as a construction worker at the RhB, later becoming a track inspector. This meant 4 am inspection shifts, and the use of a pedal-powered handcar to cover the 12 kilometres between St.Peter and Chur. His task was to keep the way free for the smooth running of our red trains, by removing any stones and tree branches that might have got onto the tracks. He then had to return on foot, checking the rails for signs of breakage or damage. „I used to be out in all weathers – but it naturally left me super-fit“, he says. The unsung heroes of the RhB Somewhere along the way, and after becoming a father for the third time, he began to long for a job that involved being in one place. „I loved my job as a track inspector, but I had enough of being constantly on the move“, he says. So as soon as an internal vacancy came up in the wagon-cleaning department in Chur, he put in an application. This was quickly followed by a promotion to section leader in operational maintenance at Landquart. „I love keeping things clean, and seeing everything spick and span“, he says. But passengers rarely appreciate his work or that of his team. „You could say that we’re the unsung heroes of the RhB, as we spend the night leaving everything spotless for the following day, just like in „The Elves and the Shoemaker.“ His worst moment is when people denigrate the cleaners’ work. „This is a very physically-demanding job“, says Mr Pargetzi. It requires expert knowledge about materials and the chemicals and cleaning products that can be used on them. „We don’t just run around with a dustpan and broom.“
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Once a week, all carriages go through the „tunnel“ in Landquart, for cleaning and technical inspection by the team.
A „complaint“ to remember The team carries out its checks every morning, during the main cleaning operation of the ALLEGRA railcar „Carlo Janka“. One team-member gets down to deal with the normally-carpeted floor, while another runs a shampooing machine over the seat upholstery. „The members of our team have all sorts of professional backgrounds“, explains their section leader. They include housepainters, cooks and former catering employees. There is in fact, as yet, no „I love keeping things industrial-cleaner training available in Switzerclean, and it’s good to see land. The Rhaetian Railway therefore offers its everything spick and span.“ employees various in-house training courses in Ruedi Pargetzi, section leader this field. „We train our own specialists to perform such tasks as the removal of graffiti.“ Some fifty employees, working in three shifts, ensure that our red-liveried trains are clean for their first morning runs. „Passengers are only aware of our work when they board the train, and even then not consciously“, says Mr Pargetzi. „It’s either clean or it’s not, but people only notice the latter.“ However, passengers do occasionally realise what has gone in to keeping our carriages so pristine. It is on these occasions that the cleaning team receives a very special kind of „complaint“: „Some people use the system provided by the RhB to submit complaints to express their praise regarding the clean state of our trains“, explains Mr Pargetzi, laughing. „We print these messages out, and pin them to the notice board as a welcome morale-raiser.“
RhB jobs: we are looking for people of the right calibre, see: 89
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Connection
Seven in one go: From St. Moritz to Venice
From cosmopolitan St.Moritz to the lagoons of Venice in just eight hours; made possible by the RhB and a complementary publictransport network. This cultural journey links together no fewer than seven UNESCO World Heritage sites. Not Around the World in Eighty Days exactly, but from Alpine St.Moritz to Mediterranean Venice in eight hours. And the Italian public-transport network provides other connections all along the way. It pays to invest time in forward planning, so as to be able to see as much as possible of the many interesting sites along the route. From St.Moritz, the Bernina Line runs south along the UNESCO World Heritage route, following the highest-altitude railway over the Alps. At the high-point of the line in Ospizio Bernina (2,253 metres above sea level), passengers can admire two adjacent lakes: dark little Lej Nair and lightercoloured Lago Bianco. These lakes mark the border between one world and another. Water flowing eastwards ends up in the Danube, while the
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Direct connection: the Tour running southwards on the Bernina Line. 963
southward outlet runs towards the Po; the boundary between weather systems is rainy on one side and dry on the other, and this point likewise marks the linguistic boundary between Romansh and Italian. From here, the track drops southwards into a land of swaying palms. The train makes short work of slopes of up to 70 mm per metre. „Next stop: Tirano!“ shouts the guard, after just over two hours. The little Mediterranean town across the Italian border is just 429 m above sea level. A piece of the real Italy Four times a day, the Italian Perego bus runs from Tirano, over the Aprica Pass and along the impressive panoramic route to Edolo. From this small town, the train runs into Val Camonica, the valley home of another site: the cave paintings in the „Parco NazionBrescia links antiquity, ale Naquane“, near Capo di Ponte. These engravings in stone, and Europe’s most importhe Middle Ages, tant prehistoric cave-art found to date, portray the Renaissance and animals, weapons and early agricultural tools. the Baroque. The oldest ones date from 6,000 BC. The thermal baths in Boario Terme offer a place to really relax. Other local attractions include nearby Lago Iseo, with its car-free island of Montisola, rearing up 400 metres out of the water. The artistic town of Brescia has been a UNESCO site since 2011. This small, romantic town is blessed with buildings from antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and the Baroque period. A visit to the Convent of Santa Giulia is also worth the effort. The modern museum housed in this former Benedictine nunnery is home to the archaeological finds from various historical periods that characterise Brescia.
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The artistic town of Brescia.
One UNESCO World Heritage site after another Departing from Brescia, the „Freccia Bianca“ Intercity train continues on to Venice. This section of the route includes a whole series of UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the old town of Verona, with its ancient amphitheatre, and the Botanical Gardens of Padua; home to several plants that are over 100 years old. Passengers enjoying the tour in one go arrive at the end of the line in Venice about eight hours later. The terminus is on the Mediterranean, where millions of wooden pillars hold Venice up above the waters of its lagoon. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Instead of streets or rails, the city’s buildings are interconnected by a dense network of canals. Gondoliers chauffeur visitors around the city, passing under its innumerable bridges and past its splendid palaces, and onwards to the Piazza San Marco. Visitors can then take stock of their travel experiences at one of the coffee houses in the arcades of the Piazza.
Ten sites in six days Six days’ travel can take you from, say, Venice, via St. Moritz, to Paris. The Glacier Express runs along the UNESCO-listed line to Brig, from where an InterCity train continues on to Interlaken and the Jung fraujoch. www.rhb.ch/welterbe-tour
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Who would have thought it?
Zahlenfluss Key figures
The catchment area of the Anterior/Posterior Rhine covers 3,207 square kilometres, the same as the entire canton of Waadt. The RhB follows the river Inn for 60 km – twice as far as the Landwasser, which „accompanies“ the RhB from A to Z. Valser Mineral Water takes 25 years to complete its thousand-metre-deep journey to St.Peter’s spring. The Morteratsch Glacier has a volume of 1.2 km³, and is (together with the Pers Glacier) the biggest glacier in the eastern Alps. Lake Silser in Upper Engadin, at 1,796.61 metres above sea level, is the highest lake in Europe to have a commercial waterway operating on it. The highest natural Jacuzzi in Europe, on Diavolezza, maintains a temperature of 40° C. Europe’s biggest natural ice rink, in Davos, occupies 18,000 m². The RhB’s rails pass over no fewer than 592 bridges. The RhB still operates 3 steam locomotives. The record amount of snow to fall in Graubünden, 641 centimetres, was measured in 2001 on the Bernina Pass.
The Anterior and Posterior Rhine rivers meet at Reichenau, at 592 metres above sea level
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Albula Railway Museum
New home for the „Crocodile“
Crocodile: Ride the virtual Crocodile locomotive through Albulatal, from June 2012. 1924
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Information on the new railway Museum: www.rhb.ch/bahnmuseum
Get on; join in: the Albula Railway Museum, in Bergün’s former armoury, takes visitors on a journey back through time with more than 400 exhibits from the history of the RhB. From June 2012, the UNESCO-listed Albula Line will have yet another attraction – thanks to the Bergün Railway Museum (inauguration: 2nd June 2012). The 1,300 m² of exhibits let you relive the history of the RhB. Visitors wander through valleys and tunnels, picking up interesting information on the pioneering days of the railway, A Landwasser complete with reconstructions of an original station and Viaduct model an inspection pit, and a conversation between a retired lets children railwayman and a current train driver. The museum gives special pride of place to the people who created and now practice putting run the RhB, and it is busy amassing a collection of personal up scaffolding. stories from archives, individual testimony, fragments of historical film, photographs, radio reports and newspaper articles. Visitors can also tell their stories, by sending to our website details of school trips, encounters with people on the railway or other unforgettable experiences involving the RhB. Travellers through time become part of the museum experience. We invite visitors to take part in such activities as discussions about the line, making use of the museum’s own topography simulator, which forms part of a series of simulations that likewise ask for participation. Children are provided with their own way through the exhibits, with their own information and interesting tasks to perform: Budding civil engineers can practice putting up scaffolding using a model of the famous Solis Viaduct, while future stationmasters can try dealing with signal box and signals.
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Landwasserv wasser iadukt wasserv iaduk 142 m
Filisur 1080 m ü.M. ü.
Via Albula/Bernina
By open-top observation car to the museum: fresh air and a guaranteed good time. 1858
Simulator: learn to drive a „Crocodile“ The museum’s main programme provides a series of enjoyable micro-moments. Attractions include the chance to see, on the actual rails, how a period train is put together. And visitors can climb onto the footplate of one of the last preserved locomotives of the RhB Ge 6/6 series, the „Crocodile“, to take a simulator-generated drive through the Albulatal. Our attention to retro detail naturally includes the museum’s catering facilities. The museum building houses, along with the exhibition areas, a buffet room equipped with genuine fittings and seating from various original dining cars and saloon carriages.
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Via Albula/Bernina
Albula Railway Museum
Berg端n/Bravuogn 1373 metres above sea level
Plaz Tunnel 262 m
God Tunnel 487 m
Railway experience Albula The Railway Experience Walk reveals the hidden side of the UNESCO route and its impressive structures. The walk from Preda to Berg端n covers some eight kilometres of viaducts, mountains and a wild mountain stream. www.rhb.ch/bahnerlebnisweg
Val Tisch Viaduct
Railway-experience route
Rugnux Tunnel 686 m
Toua Tunnel 677 m Zuondra Tunnel 515 m
Albula Viadukte I-IV
Naz
Preda 1789 metres above sea level Albula Tunnel 5865 m
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„The history and technical details of the RhB are just fascinating!“
Yves Broggi (58) chairs the foundation that runs the Albula Railway Museum and collects important and historical items of railway memorabilia. Visitors can view the collection at the museum, which is very important to Yves, for several reasons. Mr Broggi, how significant is the Albula Railway Museum to the region? The Albula Railway Museum in Bergün is a very important tourist attraction and source of income. It is creating new jobs, as the number of tourist visitors increases – and once summer comes, the museum will ideally complement the historical trail Albula. So what is that makes the Albula Railway Museum unique? The museum's exhibits are designed to enchant visitors of all ages. As the history and technical details of the Rhaetian Railway are simply fascinating. How important is the museum's „join in“ factor, which expressly asks visitors to participate? We really want visitors to be able to take an active part in the experience. For example, they can try their hand at bringing a train to a safe stop with a simulated vacuum brake, and there are various other interactive digital and analogue exhibits designed to make the museum visit enjoyable for school groups. Of the more than 400 exhibits, which one is your favourite? There are many interesting exhibits, but the Crocodile locomotive simulator is sure to be a special attraction. Donations from former railwaymen and enthusiasts, such as models and items of memorabilia, are likewise on show to delight visitors of the museum.
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A masterpiece from 1902: The 65 metre-high Landwasser Viaduct runs straight into solid rock. 21.8
What fascinates you most about the RhB? The pioneering spirit of a century ago, and the RhB’s infrastructure as a whole is bound to impress anyone. The core parts of the line’s UNESCO status are the Landwasser Viaduct and the line between Bergün and Preda, with its series of winding tunnels. The RhB line is like an eco-museum with its own natural setting.
RhB UNESCO World Heritage Pass Two days’ unlimited train travel between Tirano and Thusis (except Bernina and Glacier Express trains): the UNESCO World Heritage pass. From CHF 53.00 incl. guidebook www.rhb.ch/welterbepass
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Bernina Line
Where weather systems clash
Travellers on the Bernina Line of the RhB are able to witness a meteorological phenomenon: the dividing line between two weather systems. The line separates the weather of the northern and southern sides of the Alps. In an interview, weather expert Thomas Bucheli (50) of Swiss Television explains the significance that the Bernina massif has for the weather in Switzerland, and about why he always reaches for his camera whenever he is in such a place. Mr Bucheli, what exactly is a meteorological divide? It is defined as „a term used to describe a section of landscape that has an influence over various weather conditions in its surrounding area“. This influence must be effective enough to control, in a long-term manner, the temperature and humidity of the air, as it moves from one side of the landscape to the other. Mountain ridges are the most well-known type of meteorological divide, but parts of valleys with abrupt slopes and / or changes of direction or narrow passages, and even larger lakes, can play the same role.
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How does such a phenomenon arise, and which factors play a part in it? The most effective divides are high mountain ranges standing crosswise to the prevailing wind. As the wind hits this obstacle, it has to flow either sideways or upwards. The associated changes in temperature and humidity on the windward side of the mountain range often lead to fog, clouds and precipitation, while the air on the leeward side is much drier and warmer, with generally better weather (the socalled „foehn effect“). Many of the world’s deserts lie right behind a meteorological divide. The dry Tibetan highlands, for example, are in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, as does the Atacama Desert of northern Chile is in the lee of the Andes. How significant is the Bernina meteorological divide to Switzerland? The Bernina group, the highest range in the eastern Alps, is a major meteorological divide for southerly winds, affecting the weather of Upper Engadin in particular. It can also influence the weather further north. Typical results of this phenomenon can be heavy precipitation on the southern Alpine slopes, with barely any rain or snow in Upper Engadin, and a foehn wind in central Graubünden. The effects of the Bernina meteorological divide are at their best when the upper layers of air do not contain too much humidity. If this happens, Puschlav and the valleys to its south often lie under high-altitude mist, while the sun shines all day in Engadin.
Thomas Bucheli has been the chief editor of SF Meteo, the weather programme of Swiss Television, since 1995.
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How does a meteorological divide affect the landscape? Meteorological divides have a long-term effect on humidity and precipitation. The weather on the leeward, or downwind, side of a mountain is significantly drier than on the windward side. This affects local vegetation, soil-quality and the area’s agriculture. The Engadin is bounded by high mountain ranges on both sides, making it – along with Wallis – one of Switzerland’s driest regions. What can the meteorological divide mean for outdoor pursuits like hiking, mountain-biking or ski touring? You shouldn’t put blind faith in the benign effects of the meteorological divide. If the wind changes direction, or if humidity suddenly rises, a thick mist can soon come down. So it’s always a good idea to keep track of the situation. In fact, it’s always advisable to check the weather forecast before setting out! To what extent does the meteorological divide influence you, as a weatherman, when making calculations and drawing up forecasts? I always take meteorological divides into account. Our country of Switzerland basically consists entirely of a series of meteorological divides, such as the Jura, the central ranges of hills, the foothills of the Alps and all the other mountain ranges of the Alps themselves. Whenever I’m drawing up a forecast for a particular place, the first thing I want to know is: which way is the wind blowing? The second question is always: which mountain stands in its way?
Eco-energy trail: How does electricity reach the socket? See the twelve information boards along the educational trail. 1749
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Alp Grüm: The only restaurant reached exclusively by railway. 1038
What fascinates you most about the meteorological divide? Whenever a „foehn wall“ forms at one, I am seized by a desire to go and photograph it. The picture you get is of a striking wall of cloud in front of an almost totally blue sky. I have managed to collect a number of fantastic photos of these foehn walls from all over Switzerland. Finally: do you dare to give us a forecast for 2012? Given the changing positions of the sun, we inevitably look set to go through various seasons in 2012. But the answer to the question on how this is going to express itself in actual weather conditions, and on whether we are all going to be satisfied with it, is largely written in the stars …
From glaciers to palms The winding Albula and Bernina lines connect Europe’s north and south without any toothed-wheel mechanism. A top attraction of the ride is the panoramic view from the Bernina Express as it descends, via mighty glaciers, 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, to a land of swaying palms. In the summer from Chur to Tirano from CHF 41.00 (2nd class, half-fare card, incl. seat reservation)
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Window seat
Martina Jägli, 17 years old, a student specialising in architectural drawing, from Fideris (Switzerland).
„I like the company on board the train. Well women are known to talk a lot, aren’t they?“ May we sit down? Of course, please do! How often do you travel on the RhB? Four times a week, twice a day, and sometimes at weekends, if I’m skiing. Which part of the line do you use? My neighbour drives me to Fideris in the morning, and I take the train to Chur, where I catch a bus that drops me off almost right in front of the office. I return to Chur in the evening on the RhB, before travelling on to Jenaz, where my boyfriend picks me up and takes me home. What’s your favourite view from the train window? The sight of the morning sun coming up behind the mountains. I get a great feeling when the sunlight shines through the window and warms my face.
What would you say if a tourist asked you to recommend a particular part of the RhB? The part that runs through my home area, Prättigau, is always nice to travel on. It also has a lot to offer tourists, such as sledging on Fideriser Heubergen, or hiking along the smugglers’ paths on the Austrian border. And what are your favourite on-board pastimes? I like the company on board the train. Well women love to talk a lot, don’t they? I don’t feel like chatting first thing in the morning, but you’ll find me hard at it on the way back home (laughter). If I’m travelling alone, I like to read. How many bridges are there on the RhB network? What do you reckon? I think I recall being made to learn it in primary school, but that was a long time ago! I reckon there must be around 150. There are 592. Really? So many? Wow! I didn't guess that very well, did I?
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„A trip on the Glacier Express is something that you must experience for yourself!“ Is this seat free? Yes, of course. Where are you travelling to? My partner and I are taking the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz. We were given some gift vouchers, and someone we know strongly recommended the Glacier Express. How many times have you travelled on the RhB before? This is my first trip aboard an RhB train, and I'm really enjoying it! I don't really mind the fact that it runs through clouds and mist occasionally. What has been your favourite view so far from the train window? Nothing in particular; I find all the landscape impressive. I've never actually seen this part of Switzerland before. I also find that the commentaries supplied via the earphones are interesting. What words will you use, when you get home, to describe your trip on the Glacier Express? That's difficult to say. I'll tell everyone to try it out for themselves, as it really is something you must experience personally.
On-board service: The coffee tastes great, after the three-course meal. 34
Christian Rais, 52 years old, a tourist from Tessin (Switzerland).
Would you be able to tell? How many bridges are there on the entire RhB network? Hmm ... no idea. I could've said 200, but I wouldn't be surprised to hear that there are 500. There are in fact even more: 592 in total. Really. That's not bad!
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Ruinaulta
Where the Rhine moves mountains
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Ruinaulta-Ticket: The best way there and back, with unlimited all-day travel on the railway and post bus. 776
Bird’s eye view of the Rhine Gorge, at 580 metres above sea level
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Ruinaulta means „high scree“ in Romansh. Where the turquoise waters of the Anterior Rhine now wind through the white, rocky faces of the imposing Rhine Gorge, an amount of rock and stone equivalent to ten Matterhorns, once dropped simultaneously into the depths. Contura has taken a trip to Switzerland’s „Grand Canyon“. The trains of the RhB run right next to the trail that starts at the station in Versam-Safien and leads into the Rhine Gorge. For exactly a century, the RhB tracks have run through the gorge, taking travellers from Chur to Disentis – with the Glacier Express continuing on to Zermatt. The passing trains produce a powerful draught, creating a swirl of leaves. Their brightred livery stands in stark contrast to the turquoise-coloured waters of the Anterior Rhine, as it winds through The volume of the steep walls of the gorge; its curves dotted with the Flims landslide streaks of light-coloured gravel. The sun causes the amounted to about white limestone to glisten. A mighty landslide that took place in Flims some 10,000 ten Matterhorns. years ago, after the retreat of the Rhine Glacier, marked the birth of the Rhine Gorge. It is probable that more
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The Ruinaulta trail: runs from Reichenau to Trin and from Versam to Ilanz.
than 10,000 million cubic metres of rock broke off simultaneously, between the mountains of Flimserstein and Piz Grisch, burying what was then the river valley of the Anterior Rhine. The Flims rockfall was the biggest-ever Alpine landslide, with a volume equivalent to about ten Matterhorns. Home to rare birds and orchids Blocked by the landslide, the waters of the Anterior Rhine became trapped, and Lake Ilanz was formed. The name survives in the present town of Ilanz, which stands on the old lake-bed. About a thousand years later, the river finally bored its way through the lake’s natural dam. The water did not flow out completely, but the level of the lake dropped. Over the centuries, the river continued to slice through the fallen rock, and the lake disap- The forests of the peared. It left behind a natural paradise: the Rhine Gorge. The Rhine Gorge are home winding Anterior Rhine flows for 76 kilometres from its source, to such rare plants as the lady’s slipper Lake Toma on the Oberalp Pass, through Ruinaulta and onwards orchid. to Reichenau, where it joins the Posterior Rhine. The rocky walls, which are up to 350 metres high, contain various caves carved out by the water. This mountain paradise is criss-crossed by a network of hiking trails, complete with various observation platforms and barbecue areas. Four sections of the Anterior Rhine’s riverside are nature reserves, on account of being important breeding grounds for rare birds such as the ringed plover and sandpiper. The extensive evergreen forests on the slopes of the gorge are home to many types of orchid, such as the rare lady’s slipper. The rocks are still falling Ruinaulta is the name given to the Rhine Gorge in the Romansh language. It is a combination of the words „ruina“ (meaning scree or quarry) and „aulta“ (high). Its name suits the geology of the Rhine Gorge. But the rocks are not as uniform as they might first appear. After the great landslide, the rocks broke into innumerable fragments, which covered the valley in scree and which now constitute a kind of three-dimensional jigsaw puzzle.
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Rock is the most outstanding characteristic of the imposing Rhine Gorge.
The puzzle’s pieces are held together by lime, which was originally dissolved in the water flowing through the debris. It then precipitated over the centuries, to form what geologists call calcareous sinter. The resulting mass is not as stable as solid rock however. You can use just your hands to pull a couple of fragments out of the rocky ground beside the path. Given the irregular firmness of these rocks, anyone thinking of building here has to be extremely cautious. The reason for this is that the different levels of rock dating from the time of the great Today’s town of landslide are of varying hardness. The rock formations on Ilanz is built on a any proposed building site therefore need to be checked former lake bed. carefully, well before the bulldozers move in. When analysing the quality of the rocks, the geologists in charge always pore physically over the area again and again, measuring cracks in the stones, making calculations and creating computer simulations of the results of possible rockfalls and landslides. The Rhaetian Railway naturally engages a team of such experts for its track-building projects. Minor landslides are a common occurrence, especially in spring or late autumn. This is when water gets into the cracks and gaps in the rock. When the water freezes, it expands, causing chunks of rock to break off. This is precisely what happened to the RhB rail network. A major landslide near Valendas in 2007 left rocks on the tracks. The protective gallery was then extended at this point, to stop the line being blocked by fallen debris.
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The „flight“ of the swift Passing by Chrummwag, a sharp bend in the Anterior Rhine, the trail runs over a bridge and on towards Conn. The path leads through a forest consisting largely of pines. Most of them are missing their tops. This is due to the snow. When the mantle of fallen snow becomes too heavy, the tops of the pines break off, and the trees continue to grow without them. The observation platform in Conn, called „il spir“ (the local name for „the swift“), offers – as its name implies – fine bird’s eye views of Ruinaulta. The platform protrudes 12.5 metres out over the abyss, looking like a swift spreading its wings as it prepares to take off. The Anterior Rhine is 400 metres below. The way from Conn to Flims offers further evidence of that ancient landslide: lakes Cauma and Cresta. In summer, they tempt you in for a refreshing swim. Those who wish to carry on at this point can continue their tour along one of the area’s many hiking trails, such as the one to Ilanz. And if your legs are starting to tire, there is a bus to take gorge hikers’ back into the valley from Flims.
Panoramic bird’s eye views: views from the „il spir“ observation platform in Conn.
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Chur – Disentis / MustÊr celebrations
A century of running along the Rhine
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Steam-trains: Enchanting period steam-trains still roll through Graubünden, and not just in our anniversary year. 235
Disentis, anno 1912, 1,014 metres above sea level
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Celebrations on the 16th / 17th June 2012: the RhB commemorates a century of the Chur-Disentis line. Celebrations are taking place at eight locations, with events focusing on local traditions, culture, natural wonders, cuisine and technology. „Marie Louise Werth and the Rolling Mountain Swing Big Band“ will be entertaining onlookers from a mobile concert stage rolling through Surselva. Another unique high-point of the celebrations will be a son et lumière event in the Rhine Gorge. And what's best, the Celebration Ticket offers unlimited travel between one venue and another throughout the weekend. Special trains along the whole line Various special trains will be providing an attractive way of travelling between venues. Over the weekend, the following special trains will be running in addition to those timetabled: Alpine Classic Pullman Express Our popular and sophisticated 1930s luxury train will be pulling the RhB’s best hospitality carriage: the Piano Bar. Over the anniversary weekend, second-class Celebration Tickets will also be valid for this first-class train. Historical train The legendary Crocodile locomotive will once again be pulling its green third-class carriages through the gorge. Railrider Special observation cars offer a unique chance to ride through the wild, romantic Rhine Gorge and Surselva, where you can almost reach out and touch the sky.
Celebration Ticket Celebration Tickets (second-class day tickets) will be available at all venues with an RhB railway station. Special fare CHF 10.00 for children (aged 6 to 16 years) and adults with half-fare card (normal adult fare: CHF 20.00). www.rhb.ch/chur-disentis
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With many thanks to our sponsors Main sponsors
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Glacier Express
On the slowest express train in the world, the kitchen is a hive of activity
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Bahn frei für den Genuss: Jeder Handgriff sitzt in der Bordküche des Glacier Express. 1587
Glacier Express on-board kitchen, train 910
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Membership of the catering team on the slowest express train in the world is not a job for beginners. Time is always pressing and every move must count, with many curves to test your sense of balance. A day in the kitchen of the Glacier Express, where all meals are freshly prepared. The meat is carved in Brig. It is 11.12 a.m. as the train rolls into this small town in the region of Upper Valais to take on further St.Moritz-bound passengers. The passengers are all looking forward to their ride on this train with its famous panoramic views. And they have a good appetite. Since 9.52, the departure-time from Zermatt, chef Sinthusan Tharumalingam has been busy with the day’s set menu: stuffed roast pork with prunes, spätzli noodles with parsley, and steamed spinach, plus a bouillon-and-pea starter with mountain herbs, and „You need a strong a dessert of Domleschg cherry tart. sense of balance, and The on-board galley, and domain of this 28-year-old to be sure of not railway chef from Sri Lanka, is a narrow area of bareusing too much salt.“ ly ten metres in length, with just one metre of clearance separating the working surfaces, two windows Sinthusan Tharumalingam, and all the space needed to store pots and pans, cuton-board chef lery, crockery and kitchen utensils in the most compact manner possible. This is where Mr Tharumalingam, working entirely alone, produces freshly-prepared meals for our passengers from all over the world. „There are some forty set menus to serve today, along with a dozen á la carte meals“, he quickly calculates. A hectic lunchtime The Glacier Express reaches Oberwald just after midday. This is when things start to get hectic in the kitchen, even though today’s train isn’t fully-occupied. As the passengers sit back and relax after ordering their meals, the chef is busy cooking the spätzli and spinach in a large pan, while putting the water on for the bouillon and carrying out regular checks on the meat, which he put in the oven to warm just before Brig. Unlike the passengers, he barely has any opportunity to glance out of the window and admire
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Glacier Express passengers enjoy freshly-prepared three-course meals. 34
the views of the passing landscape. Meal preparation involves many tasks. The waitresses hand in a constant stream of orders, while doing their best to dampen the increasing stress. „Two goulash soups and two cheese selections. But take it easy!“ is the calming advice of waitress Margarita Thoma. The table staff often give the chef a hand with preparation, or by intervening whenever, say, the pearl-barley soup seems to be in danger of overcooking, while Mr Tharumalingam stands on the window-side, preparing a Prättigau Farmer’s Special of locally-produced ham and cheese. Important: a sense of balance The catering team, which consists – in addition to the chef Mr Tharumalingam – of head waiter Mijo Maric and waitresses Margarita Thoma and Birgit Wellig, is a smoothly-running machine, despite the hectic atmosphere and lack of space. All four of them sometimes end up in a single, narrow bottleneck, but still manage to operate smoothly. A casual comment might escape someone’s lips, but anyone observing this team of four different nationalities soon realises how they need to be able to juggle several tasks simultaneously with full and undivided attention. It all takes place on a constantly-swaying train. A sense of balance and a steady
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Whether it’s a three course meal or the plat du jour, the on-board catering staff of the Glacier Express serve only freshly-prepared food.
hand are vital on the winding sections of track, to stop anything being over-salted or spilled. „I use extra-tough footwear“, explains the chef, Mr Tharumalingam. The crew members, who previously worked mostly in restaurants, tell of quickly getting used to the swaying. And if something untoward happens, like the driver having to slam on the brakes, it’s not the end of world, because – as head waiter Mr Maric explains – „The passengers understand the situation.“ Meals ordered in advance Everything is going smoothly today. As the train enters Andermatt, just before one o'clock, the waiting staff have covered the route from the four carriages to the kitchen countless times. Sometimes they do this individually, sometimes in pairs and sometimes three at a time – serving the set meal of meat, spätzli and spinach directly at each passenger’s own neatly-laid table. Just as the main course is being served, there are always those diners who are suddenly tempted to make a last-second order. „The roast looks good. Have you seen it?“ says one passenger, as the three members of waiting staff go by. But her order is already too late, as the roast set menu is sold out. In fact, many passengers order their set menu, which changes every day, at the same time as they buy their tickets. At an alarming angle: the famous Glacier Express sloping wineglass (CHF 22.00 in the Rail Shop). 541 46
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Guests lacking foresight can still order a meal from the menu, which includes various local specialities from Graubünden and Wallis; the two cantons served by the Glacier Express. The selection of set meals and menu items is carried out by RailGourmino swissAlps AG, of Chur, which also caters for the Glacier Express, the Rhaetian Railway and the Matterhorn Gotthard Railway. Just don’t ask for chips. „The train’s swaying makes deepfat frying too dangerous“, explains on-board chef Mr Tharumalingam. „Better than in a restaurant“ The lunchtime-stress is over by 2 p.m. The train stops for several minutes in Disentis, to allow shunting work to take place. The chef uses the pause to get some fresh air, and many passengers also get off to stretch their legs. But the shift is not yet over in the on-board kitchen. As the train journeys on towards the Rhine Gorge, coffee and cakes are served and the dishwasher is loaded up. While „I can't imagine the dishwasher cleans the tableware, the kitchen pans going back to work have to be washed by hand until in a restaurant.“ they gleam like new. There are alMijo Maric, head waiter ways some passengers who begin to feel peckish in the afternoon. The world’s slowest „Our shift doesn't finish until the Glacier Express express train reaches its terminus in St. Moritz“, says head The two high-points of the waiter Mr Maric, who always bids the passengers 7½-hour ride are at either end: a personal farewell. On the following day, everycosmopolitan St. Moritz, Davos, with its health-giving Alpine air, thing is repeated in the opposite direction, with and Zermatt home to the Mata whole new set of culinary experiences to enjoy terhorn. With freshly-prepared aboard the Glacier Express. The train’s catering starters, main courses and desserts from the train’s own onstaff obviously love their job aboard the slowest board galley along the way. express train in the world. „It really is fun. Every In winter from St. Moritz day is different, and we have many international to Zermatt from CHF 124.00 guests on board“, says head waiter Mr Maric. „I incl. three-course meal can't imagine going back to work in a restaurant.“ at your seat (2nd class, half-fare card, incl. seat reservation)
www.rhb.ch/glacierexpress
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Via
Veltliner – fine wines from northern Italy
Veltlin wines have an eventful history: In the 19th and early 20th centuries, wine-making was an im-
Follow the Graubünden smugglers’ path: from just CHF 590.00, including four nights’ accommodation. 520
portant part of the local economy, until a drop in demand at the end of the last century. But these wines from the sunny Alpine valleys of northern Italy are now in demand again, especially in neighbouring Switzerland. Vineyards are an omnipresent part of the landscape: 2,500 kilometres of dry-stone walls criss-cross this steep wine terraces in the valley, giving character to the countryside. The people of Veltlin knew long ago why the vines are planted on the higher slopes, rather than in the valley below: the sunlight (1,900 hours a year) falling on the vine terraces is similar to that in parts of southern Italy. The vines of Veltlin continue to thrive at altitudes of up to 700 metres, where they benefit from abundant sun and mineral-rich granite soil. The Swiss were important buyers of these sun-drenched wines from the start. From the 16th to the end of the 18th century, Veltlin was actually
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UNESCO World Heritage Pass: 2 days’ unlimited travel on Thusis-Tirano trains, from CHF 53.00. 1069
part of Switzerland. Up until 1797, this Alpine valley to the south of Puschlav belonged to Graubünden. Even after separation, the local economy of Veltlin continued to depend on its neighbour. 66 % of the wine harvest ended up in Swiss barrels. Transport was by pack mule, and then on the wagons of the Bernina Railway. In the 1980s, Veltlin suffered a crisis, as sales of bottled wine began to displace those of wines, like Veltlin, that normally came in barrels. Veltlin wine is now enjoying a renaissance however, with experts predicting a solid future for traditional winegrowing regions. This is thanks partly to younger growers, who have introduced new types of grape to the region. Complementing the old, long-established wineries, they form a balanced mix based on 800 hectares of new vineyards. Renowned firms include La Gatta vineyard of Fratelli Triacca, operating in Bianzone but registered in Switzerland. The vineyard was first planted 500 years ago by Dominican monks. The Mascioni family of vintners from Puschlav were the first to get La Gatta involved in wine. The firm, which was „Veltlin wines founded in 1897, now produces – in the hands of the Fratellis are both elegant (Giovanni and Luca) – 300,000 bottles of Triacca every year. and complex.“ What is so special Giovanni Triacca, for you about VeltTip wine grower lin wines? „They are highly-elegant, Pizzoccheri noodles are freestanding, complex, vivaquite simply an integral cious wines, which reflect the part of Valposchiavo. The pasta, made of buckwheat scents and aromas of Veltlin: and wheat flour, is served with raspberries and fruits of the savoy cabbage and potatoes, and forest when new; mushrooms, also cheese. Giovanni Triacca recleaves and hay when mature.“ ommends his own firm, La Gatta, in this respect: „This is a tangy The experts know which wine red wine, with an intensive, fresh is best to accompany the area’s note of flowers and raspberries, typical pizzoccheri. making it an ideal accompaniment for pasta.“
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A place in the sun
In balmy Arosa: sun terraces for soaking up the vitamin D
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The sun on Arosa’s coat of arms is not just for decoration. It stands for the sunny, high-altitude location of this resort in Schanfigg. We have listed seven of Arosa’s winter terraces; all with guaranteed vitamin D and from traditional to trendy.
Weisshorngipfel Arosa’s highest terrace Close to the sky, Arosa’s top terrace (2,653 metres high) offers panoramic views of 400 summits. You can also enjoy the local croissants, freshly-baked in Europe's highest-altitude bakery. Jürg Gadient, Weisshorn’s baker, also turns out a range of cakes, pastries and confectionery to make sunny relaxation on the observation platform even sweeter.
Tschuggenhütte A trendy terrace in a winter-sports resort Tschuggenhütte is Arosa’s top winter meeting-place. And no wonder: this snowy resort has a row of sun loungers stretching as far as the eye can see. 300 of them stand available for sun-worshipping skiers, snowboarders and walkers. The restaurants and bars of Tschuggendörfli, which stands right behind this massive terrace, provide hot sustenance for the hungry – with anything from good fast food to Raclette. Partygoers come to the Kuhbar, where fun reigns until 7 pm.
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Arosa Line: 1,000 m up from Chur in 1 hour, for CHF 7.10. 552
Sattelhütte Wind-protected relaxation Doing things at a slower pace is now „in“. Arosa joins in with a whole mountain, declaring Brüggerhorn an area of relaxation. Peace and quiet is the trump card on these slopes. On Sattelhütte terrace (2,401 metres high), the wind-protected lounge is more laid-back than anywhere else. The massive armchairs are great for a nap, with relaxing herbal tea on the menu and fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.
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Brüggerstuba A place for all situations This terrace located half-way up towards Weisshorn is also the place to choose whenever the sun fails to come out – thanks to the enclosed winter garden of Brüggerstuba. Skiers can fortify themselves with all manner of pasta dishes before venturing back out onto the slopes. For those who prefer to tarry a while, a party atmosphere can be found in the Sternenbar under the large canopy, with serves concoctions like Schneeflöckli (caramel liqueur with a scoop of whipped cream).
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Carmennahütte For partygoers Fun and partying are what Carmennahütte is about. The owners have even created a new cocktail, the „Munggapfupf“, for the barman to mix. Bands and other acts create a great outdoor ambience. Lovers of the good life can order local delicacies in the terrace restaurant with waiter service, or just sip hot chocolate as they relax on a sun lounger. A snowcat takes passengers from the Hotel Erzhorn to this favourite meeting point for skiers at 2,131 metres above sea level. Hörnlihütte A terrace not only for top skiers At 2,513 metres above sea level, Steinhütte stands on the summit of Hörnli. Great views and fresh mountain air can be enjoyed all around this intimatelysized terrace. The name of Hörnli is re-
flected in certain local dishes (including, for example, one with mincemeat and tomato sauce, or a salad with local Wienerli sausage) served at your table or sun lounger. What’s more… Don’t be surprised at the number of talented skiers who are drawn to this place; Hörnlihütte also hosts the Arosa Skiing Club. Sit Hütte The local snowboarders’ headquarters Snowboarders have turned Tschuggen into their local headquarters. Sit-Hütte, at 2,000 metres above sea level, is a place for jibbing in the Fun Park, or just chilling out in the lounge. Sustenance includes such delicacies as „Freeride Salad“, „MC Twist Burg’Air“ or „Homeboy Z’morge“, washed down with drinks bearing names like „Voodoo Coffee“ or „Holdrio“, with music to suit the hippest snowboarders.
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So what does …
… a snow and avalanche researcher do in summer? Researchers employed by the WSL – the Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research (SLF) in Davos – spend a busy winter taking GPS measurements, laser scans and other remote sensor readings of the results of avalanches, in order to answer questions like „Where did it start?“, „What route did it take?“, „How long did it take to reach the valley?“, or „How far did it get?“ They then develop tools designed to create protective measYves Bühler (33), a scientist employed ures, for use in the affected areas of Switzerland and by the SLF. elsewhere. A job for lovers of winter weather: „We are often out in the cold, and most of us love snowy landscapes more than we do verdant Alpine meadows“, says Yves Bühler (33), a scientist employed by the SLF. But what do these specialists do when the snow has melted and the season’s last avalanche is long gone? Anyone who assumes that they spend summer relaxing on the banks of Lake Davos would be wrong. In fact, avalanche experts do everything but relax during the snow-free periods of the year. „We evaluate the winter’s data, create computer models and lab simulations, and draw up reports“, explains Mr Bühler. The research field of these Davos-based scientists is no longer limited to the great white menace. „We also carry out research into landslides and rockfalls. Our organisation has expanded its research activities to cover other natural haz-
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One-franc special: just one Swiss franc turns your daily ski-pass into a railway ticket. 222
Automatic snow and weather stations deliver important measurement data for the avalanche report.
ards that are typical of the Alps.“ In its summer job of investigating mudslides and rockfalls, the institute benefits from experience in the field of avalanches. „We have developed a computer model that can be applied, with appropriate tweaks, to all three processes“, explains Mr Bühler. No missing of dates Despite having plenty to do after the snow has melted, most of the SLF’s staff book their holidays during the warmer months. „I could in theory take my holidays in winter, but I’d miss out on interesting avalancherelated data.“ says Mr Bühler, who normally takes his holidays in spring for this reason. „Pickings are poor at this time of year, while the lowlands are all in full bloom.“ This native of Winterthur always ends up taking something of a busman's holiday when he finally gets to ski himself. „Out on the slopes, my attention is quickly drawn to the characteristics of the surrounding country and its snow. So yes, I do find it a bit difficult to get away from the office ...“
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So what does …
… the greenkeeper at the Kulm Golf Course do in winter? Bart Davey, the greenkeeper at Kulm Golf Course in St.Moritz, spends his summers tending the grass. He is up at between 6 am and 8 am. „If we are holding tournaments, or have a long list of reservations, I’m up even earlier“, says the 43-year-old greenkeeper. From midApril until the end of October, this New Zealander keeps the grass in optimum condition. This entails mowing, aerating and fertilising. „Greenkeepers have to be out Bart Davey (43) is responsible for keeping the grass in in all weathers“, he says. „This is what I like about this perfect condition at the Kulm summer job.“ Grass is a living organism, and it reacts golf course in St. Moritz. differently to varying weather and other factors. „This, along with my contact with the golfers, makes my job extremely varied“, he says. His well-kept greens also receive a succession of VIPs, like star golfers Caroline Rominger and Robert Baker, or the FC Basel football team. Bart Davey graduated from agricultural college in New Zealand. He has lived in Switzerland for 20 years, and performed various jobs, including training as a greenkeeper before Kulm. „The place is fantastic“, he enthuses. It’s a very tranquil location, despite being on the edge of St.Moritz. The course also has an interesting history.“ Originally established in 1891, it is one of the oldest golf courses in continental Europe. During the winter, the Olympic bobsleigh run crosses the golf course and driving range. The course
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Hiking tip: on the panoramic route from Muottas Muragl to Segantini-Hütte. 1609
Teeing-off against a magnificent backdrop: one of the highest-altitude golf courses in Europe is a fine place to work on your handicap.
was an Olympic venue in 1928 and 1948. „One of the things I also love is the number of ancient trees that dot the course“, says the greenkeeper. Snow insulates the grass during the winter Even though Bart Davey spends the summer tending and pampering the golf course, he is not at all averse to winter. „The snow insulates the grass, protecting it from the cold. In the spring, the covering of snow prevents the course from drying out“, explains Mr Davey. „In fact, winter is not half as bad as people might think.“ It is however important to ensure, before the first snows fall, that the grass is in a trouble-free and healthy state. Starting in the middle of April, the greenkeeper nevertheless frees the course of its splendid-looking white covering. „This is when the grass needs sunlight and air.“ But up until this time, the golf course remains in hibernation under a thick layer of snow – and Bart Davey works in a sports shop, where he maintains and hires out skis.
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Power-play
In the catacombs of the HCD
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Special train: HCD fans get a 20 % discount on special-train journeys to home games. 974
The Vaillant Arena is home to the legendary Hockey Club Davos (HCD). A glimpse behind the scenes there shows why the red carpet spells lots of work, why there is a supermarket trolley in the changing room, and why the four rink-maintenance men are also artists. The puck whizzes across the ice. The stick of HCD attacker Dino Wieser swings, causing it to fly up and crash into the Perspex screen on the touchline. There is a whole canister of pucks in the middle of the rink, and the two HCD players who are training at the Vaillant Arena in Davos this morning take turns at dipping into it. The only thing happening on the playing field is their movement. The stadium is otherwise totally quiet. There is only one man on the stand, which would normally be crowded with thousands of fans, all feverishly cheering their team to victory. He sprays each seat with a cleaning product, and wipes it with a cloth. High overhead, under the impressive domed wooden roof of the arena, a team-strip, proudly bearing the number five, hangs in honour of Marc Gianola. This former defender and team captain of the HCD, is an ice-hockey legend. He retired two years ago, after a highly successful career in the sport, and is now in charge of the club's marketing activities. „I sometimes miss being in the team“, he says. „I’m now a lone wolf, and have had to get used to the fact.“ It is however good to continue to work with the HCD, Marc Gianola (39), despite having retired from the sport. He is providing us with a head of marketing and former player glimpse behind the scenes this morning, showing us a world that of HC Davos spectators rarely see.
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The final touch is what counts The heart of the HCD is the stadium’s changing room. Skates and helmets hang from the ceiling, with team-strips and training-suits stowed in lockers. It is decorated in the team’s colours of yellow and blue, and its ibex logo seems to be everywhere. The „From blunt to razorcarpeted floor is patterned with the markings of an sharp; each has ice-hockey field. An empty supermarket trolley stands his own preferences.“ in the middle. It has nothing to do with shopping, Marc Gianola, HCD’s head however. „This is our laundry cart“, explains Marc Giof marketing anola. „After each training session, everyone throws his dirty kit into the trolley for despatching to the stadium’s laundry.“ The team-strips are all neatly hung out and then ironed, ready for their next mission. Star attacker Reto von Arx is sitting in the recreation room. The TV is on, and the place smells of coffee. Marc Gianola chats briefly with his former team-mate, before leading us into the catacombs of the stadium, with their massage room, wellness facilities and skate-grinding workshop. „That's a really important place“, says Mr Gianola. This is because the correct quality of the grinding is decisive. Stefan Steiner, the man in charge of equipment, knows exactly how to grind the skates for each player. „Each one has his own preferences“, explains Mr Gianola. Some prefer blunt blades, while others like them to be really sharp. Some want their blades ground after every training session, and others are content with just three times a year.
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Top: Everything is kept clean; from the players’ freshlylaundered strips to the spectators’ seats. Bottom: Players train on the „red carpet“ to improve their strength and coordination. The red goal is used for daily scoring practice.
Every day: shooting training in the „Commando Room“ As we continue the tour, our guide opens a door marked „Commando Room“. A wooden staircase leads down into an almost-bare basement. There is a goal up against the far wall. „This is the police and security central control room during matches“, explains the club's head of marketing. „But at other times, it’s used for shooting practice“, says Mr Gianola. „Every player has to spend a daily half-hour in here, repeatedly practising his shooting and scoring accuracy.“ 72,000 litres: the rink-maintenance staff clean the ice every hour The foyer at the south entrance, which is normally crowded with spectators during breaks in play, is now dark and empty. A strip of foam matting runs right along it, like a red carpet. But the HCD is not expecting any VIPs this morning. This „red carpet“ actually means hard work for the players. „The players use these mats for jump-training, designed to improve their speed and coordination“, explains Mr Gianola, as we make our way to the ice-machine garage. The machine drives in just as we arrive, with rink-maintenance man Reto Fümm at the wheel. He is one of four rink-maintenance staff employed by the Vaillant Arena. The 1,800 square-metre rink is formed by 72,000 litres of water, frozen into a five-
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Two important ambassadors of Graubünden: the RhB has been a co-sponsor of HC Davos since 2006.
centimetre-thick layer of ice. The stadium is ice-free between April and August, for maintenance of the refrigeration system. Mr Fümm expertly reverses a concrete container along the floor. The next load of snow is on its way. „Keeping the ice clean is a work of art“, says Mr Fümm. „We need to estimate how deep the grooves and scratches are, how much water we need to drain off, and what cutting-depth we need to use for the scraper blade on the ice machine.“ There is „There are no fixed no fixed formula for this; only experience counts. When rules. Experience the rink-maintenance man drives the machine off the is what counts.“ ice, there should be no puddles, and all the water must Reto Fümm, once more be frozen. „The players provide us with feedrink-maintenance man back about the state of the ice“, says Mr Fümm. „We keep each other fully-informed, to ensure it’s in tip-top condition.“ The machine has a one-hour break, before the next round of ice-maintenance starts.
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„I’m sure that there are many people who would pay for an insight like this.“
Piotr Caviezel (38) is the RhB’s head of Swiss and international marketing. His enthusiasm for the Hockey Club Davos complements the RhB’s co-sponsorship. During the legendary Spengler Cup competition between Christmas and New Year, he plays host to visiting teams such as Spartak Moscow or 2011 Vitkovice Steel. Mr Caviezel, how do you manage your day, when you are hosting a visiting team? That depends on the match schedule. The three fixed items are training, team conferences and meals. My various jobs have to be fitted in around them. These include the organising of press conferences, transport, laundry services, daily meetings with team hosts, and so on. The high-points are the actual matches, which we get to watch from the touchline or changing room. I’m sure that there are many people who would pay for an insight like this. As team host, you get a close-up view of teams from abroad. Are there any experiences that you could tell us about? Yes, several, but one story stands out in particular. Just before the first 2010 match, with Spartak Moscow, I realised that the Russian coach, Andrej Jakowenko, had never even heard of HC Davos. I asked him if he would like me to give him a brief rundown of HCD’s best players. Mr Jakowenko commented, somewhat witheringly: „It’s only a Swiss team.“ This raised my hackles, and I explained to him, in a few words, the strengths of such Davos star players as Reto von Arx or Beat Forster. But he retorted with: „They’re only Swiss players“. Spartak lost 2-4 to HC Davos, and was left with virtually no chance of winning the competition. Reto von Arx had indeed tri-
umphed, by scoring two goals and setting up the other two. After the match, Mr Jakowenko laughed and slapped me on the back, saying: „Piotr, I should have listened to what you were telling me about this von Arx guy!“ Have you formed any friendships with foreign players? I had a really good personal relationship with certain members of the Spartak Moscow team. I also correspond by e-mail with both the Slovak star player Branko Radivojevic and Dominik Hasekzum from the Czech Republic, who is possibly the greatest goalkeeper of all time. Moscow is unfortunately not just around the corner; otherwise I would definitely have taken up the invitation of Mr Radivojevic & Co., and paid them a visit. Which parts of your home canton of Graubünden do you show to visiting teams? Not much time remains, after the matches, training sessions, breaks and media conferences, so we go for things that are close to hand, like a carriage ride through one of the valleys near Davos, a shopping trip to Chur on the Rhaetian Railway for wives and girlfriends, or a trip up one of the local mountains to admire the views. Ice-hockey world star Dominik Hasek has however assured me that he would really love to try out the Glacier Express.
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Next stop …
… Scuol!
In summer, it gurgles, splashes and flows; in winter, it shows its icy aspect: the mineral-water spring of Scuol. Passengers getting off at the RhB terminal in Lower Engadin are quite literally at the source of today’s spa-town tourist industry, and can take a drink to quench their thirst. Always and everywhere. Lucius, Carola and Boniface: Scuol has these three striking names to thank for what it is today. They are just three of the approximately twenty mountain springs that bubble out of the ground in the famous spa town of Scuol. Lucius & Co. show the light of day to water that has undergone a 25-year subterranean journey, enriching itself with minerals such as sulphate, carbon or magnesium along the way. This concentration of springs in such a small area can be traced back to a unique geological phenomenon of the Alps: the Lower Engadin Window. This underground geological layer was formed by a clash between the continental plates of Europe and Africa.
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Combined spa package: Rail travel and pool fun in one – 20 % off with the RhB. 553
In the place where Switzerland's first Roman-Irish baths once stood, Engadin Bad Scuol will be opening 2012 with a series of new offers.
Water with a history The health-giving properties of Scuol’s waters were first recorded in the 14th century, and people of means were soon taking annual trips to sample them. But the golden age of spa-town tourism was to take place in a later age. In the second half of the 19th century, with the road through the valley completed, the rich and powerful began to flock to Scuol to sample its mineral-water cures. These included many of noble birth, such as Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands. Queen Carola of Saxony was also The subtera frequent visitor, and one of Scuol’s mineral springs is named after her. These blue-blooded visitors naturally also wanted to ranean water be able to take the waters at home, be it in Berlin, London or takes about New York. So Scuol water became a leading export item, and the 25 years to town was dubbed the „Queen of the Alpine Spas“, leaving even come up out of St. Moritz behind in terms of visitor-numbers. The 150-year-old assembly rooms in Tarasp and the Hotel Scuol Palace still bear the ground. witness to this golden age. The rankings have meanwhile changed again however, as Scuol can no longer compete, with just mineral water, with the champagne climate of its flashier counterpart in Upper Engadin. But bubbling spring water is now only part of what Lower Engadin has to offer visitors, and its attractions are fortunately no longer limited to the rich. Visitors can now come to Bogn Engiadina Scuol, with a spa right in the middle of the village. After comprehensive refurbishment in the early ‘nineties, the owners turned this old bathhouse, complete with wooden bathtubs, into a modern temple of wellness, and one of the first of today’s state-of-the-art spa facilities.
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The water bubbles up without pausing. Visitors taking a tour of the village learn some interesting facts about the water and its nearby natural sources.
The main attraction is its Roman-Irish bath, the first to be opened in Switzerland. A culture of bathing rituals has grown up around the waters, allowing visitors to relax in combinations of steam at different temperatures (like the ancient Romans) and the dry heat by which the Irish once swore. Visitors to Bogn can also enjoy the more than 6,000 m³ of water contained in twelve indoor and outdoor pools, with spectacular mountain views. This Engadin spa is now gradually being renovated, with new facilities becoming available by 2012. A question of taste The water continues to offer the same benefits as it always has: wellbeing and health. This „blue gold“ has in fact now been found to have even more beneficial characteristics. Bathing in spa water toughens you up, while stimulating the circulation, massagScuol is known ing the skin, relaxing the muscles and improving stamina. It as the „Queen of also offers internal bodily benefits, including – for examthe Alpine Spas“. ple – its effects on the bladder. Boniface spring-water is a natural diuretic and recommended iron-supplement, while the Lucius and Emerita springs are two of Europe’s richest sources of Glauber’s salt, which is used to treat various gastric, intestinal and gall-bladder conditions. The Lischana spring, with its high magnesium content, is of significant benefit to various metabolic, muscle-control and nerve functions. A tasting session involving the mineral waters of Scuol is in any case highly recommended. The basic rule of thumb is: the stronger the water’s mineral concentration is, the more it becomes an acquired taste. You can sample the various mineral waters virtually anywhere in the town. Possible venues include the Bogn Engiadina Scuol spa assembly rooms, or
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their splendidly-decorated counterparts in Tarasp, dating from 1875 / 76. This is, literally, the original source of the detox cure. The health-giving water also flows continuously from the village fountain. A guided tour through the historical Old Quarter provides interesting information about the various waters and their nearby springs. And the restaurants of Scuol all serve the local „Aua Minerala“, either on tap or bottled at the Carola spring. If you have a thirst for knowledge … Visitors interested in knowing how the water gets to the assembly rooms or the village fountain can follow the Mineral Water Trail. Starting at the Boniface Spring, which occupies a small building to the west of Scuol, it follows a 30-kilometre route that takes in the various springs of Lower Engadin. Bilingual signs provide information on the origin of each name, the type of spring, the main ingredients of its water and its possible applications. The Trail is operated by the „Fundaziun Pro Aua Minerala“, a foundation set up by Scuol and its neighbouring municipalities on 22nd March 2002 to celebrate World Water Day. The Foundation has various founding objectives to fulfil. It concerns itself with the conservation of the springs and the quality of their water, while stimulating interest in, and promoting knowledge of, mineral water. However, the most important part of the Foundation’s mission is to show what a valuable treasure the region of Lower Engadin has in its mineral springs.
Castle of Tarasp: visit this thousand-year-old castle for 20 % less, and dine at a special price. 1269
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Famous names
A place of honour for our canton’s ambassadors
Dario Cologna tours Graubünden every day, not on skis, but on the rails of the RhB. The top sportsman’s name is emblazoned on the ALLEGRA railcar bearing the number 3504. This red train is proudly named after Graubünden’s own Olympic cross-country skiing champion. Now aged 26, Dario Cologna was the first Swiss cross-country skier to win (in 2009) both the Tour de Ski and World Cup, a triumph he repeated in 2011 and 2012. He also brought home a gold medal from the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. The Rhaetian Railway has therefore named one of its ALLEGRA railcars after this top cross-country skier from Val Müstair. „The Rhaetian Railway is as big a part of my Graubünden homeland as the ibex or the mountains, and it is an honour to see my name on one of their famous red trains“, says Dario Cologna, proudly. Outstanding sports personalities Two sportsmen share this honour. In addition to Dario Cologna, racing skier Carlo Janka also has „his“ train. The railway has given pride of place on its fifteen ALLEGRA railcars to people who have played an important role in the history of Graubünden and the RhB. Number 3501, for example, is dedicated to Dutch-born captain of industry and businessman Willem Jan Holsboer, who laid the foundations of the RhB. Alberto Giacometti, Giovanni Segantini, Anna von Planta (a co-founder of the cantonal hospital) and Simeon Bavier (Graubünden’s first Federal Councillor) likewise lend their names to ALLEGRA railcars.
Which train are you on? Look up any train-name under 1395
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Reg. no. WR-S 3820
With a piano on board
The bland-sounding „WR-S 3820“ actually conceals a piano, black leather armchairs, thick carpeting, a walnut bar-top and a coffee machine. This is the fleet number of the RhB’s Piano Bar carriage. Riders on this nostalgic period car can sip a glass of Malanser wine or Churer Röteli, and nibble local delicacies at their green-soapstone tables, as a pianist gently peppers the rolling ambience with melodic jazz or swing. This stylish carriage bears witness to another of Graubünden’s tourist booms; that of the 1920s. Built by the Schweizerische Waggonfabrik Company in 1928, our Piano Bar carriage originally operated as a saloon / dining car on what was then the Bernina Railway. It was then sold, before being reacquired by the Rhaetian Railway and converted, in the year 2000, into an exclusively saloon car. Ten years later, the association Pro Salonwagen RhB and the Rhaetian Railway jointly converted it into the Piano Bar, for chartering out as a carriage for special occasions. This exquisite piece of period rolling-stock now forms part of the Alpine Classic Pullman Express, on its nostalgic runs through the mountains of Graubünden.
Charter rides: together The RhB offers a combination of travel and an event in its own right. A group trip with workmates, club associates or a bunch of friends is a great way to enjoy Graubünden. For further information, please see our charter brochure, or go to: www.rhb.ch/charterwagen
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Why doesn’t the train just slide backwards? The secret is adhesion
The trains of the Rhaetian Railway run up and down extremely steep inclines. So how can the red trains climb such steep mountains, without simply sliding back down? Why do metal wheels running on equally-smooth steel rails not just slip when tackling a mountain? The magic word is „adhesion“. This technical term, which denotes the force that keeps the wheels of the red trains on their rails, could also be defined as „invisible glue“. If the rails are too steep, the „glue“ no longer sticks. The train might attempt to ascend, but cannot – because the force is too weak. The wheels could then begin to slip, causing the train Without toothed wheels, but with certain ingenuity, to slide back down the mountain. the RhB tackles big differences in altitude.
Clever: the Circular Viaduct actually flattens the incline In order to prevent this ever happening, the Rhaetian Railway includes various items of infrastructure designed to make the rails less steep. The Circular Viaduct in Brusio, for example, leads the train down via a descending spiral. The switchback layout of the track means that it is less steep, but longer than it would be if the line went directly up the mountain. If a slope is too steep for a train to tackle, and adhesion no longer works, help is needed. Items such as toothed wheels or cables can then be used to pull the train up the mountain. The Rhaetian Railway is however designed so as not to need such devices, and this is what makes it so special. The Bernina Express is the highest-altitude way to cross the Alps by train all the year round without using tunnels.
max.7%
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The RhB can climb a distance of up to seven metres using just 100 metres of track.
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400 m
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The Circular Viaduct allows the RhB to climb 20 metres in a tight space. It lengthens the track, while reducing its incline. The illustration shows what the viaduct would look like as a straight section of track.
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Design
Vrin, Vals and Britain: all present in a single train
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The RhB is adding five new ALLEGRA railcars to the fleet in 2012. Their interior-design reflects the look of typical Graubünden building materials: wood and stone. Christian Harbeke has sought inspiration in the UK when designing the check-patterned seat fabrics, as British visitors were originally responsible for kick-starting Swiss mountain tourism. The fabric is made in the Swiss canton of Bern by the company Lantal Textiles. Christian Harbeke was somewhat overcome when, after mountain-biking in Graubünden, he happened to climb aboard „his“ ALLEGRA railcar. „We had created the designs for the seats, floors and walls, but it was very special to ride on the actual train“, he says. Christian Harbeke, an industrial designer at Zurich-based Nose AG, created the new RhB interior. He designed the seat covers especially for these new railcars. „I drew inspiration from traditional English check patterns when creating the design“, he explains. In designing these train interiors for the RhB, he has perpetuated part of our history, as the British are regarded as the original founders of Swiss mountain tourism. Clad in tweed trousers, they once climbed the summits of Graubünden. „You can come across this typical design even today, as it is still used for golf trousers and horse blankets“, says the designer. He has used a modern take on this British-style pattern to design the RhB’s first-class seats in elegant black with coloured accents, and second-class seats in a cool shade of blue. 3,744 spools of yarn converted into cloth The Rhaetian Railway ordered the fabric from Lantal Textiles AG, a manufacturer based in Melchnau, in the Swiss Canton of Bern. „We worked in collaboration with the team at Lantal to convert our design ideas into actual fabrics“, says Christian Harbeke. The factory’s looms rattle away, busily converting metre after metre of yarn into cloth, as they tirelessly combine the design’s various individual colours. The finished cloth is then rolled up.
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A total of 107 looms are in operation. The jacquard looms manufacturing fabric for the Rhaetian Railway produce about ten metres of material every hour. The fabric is a velour material. The weaving machine cuts the thickly-woven material down the middle. This creates its plush surface, while doubling the number of metres. Employees load a total of 3,744 spools of yarn, with each one placed on the right spindle to ensure that the final pattern matches the original design. Four employees work for six hours to change the machine from one design to the next. „We offer maximum quality“, explains Thomas Hofer, Lantal’s head of sales. „This is why each and every part of our production process takes place here in Switzerland.“ Everything happens „The British are regarded onsite. The raw wool is coloured to order in the as the founders of Swiss factory’s own dye-works. Lengths consisting of mountain tourism. Clad in two threads are then twisted into the actual yarn tweed, they climbed the in the in-house spinning mill, from where it is finally taken to the looms to be woven. summits of Graubünden.“ Each metre of the finished RhB-patterned fabChristian Harbeke, designer ric is then spread out on giant inspection tables for checking. The floor under the checkers’ seats is strewn with fluff and thread of all colours. Small imperfections are corrected by hand, using a delicately-executed darning technique. Each darner checks 50 square metres of cloth per hour. The cloth is then ready for covering the seats of an ALLEGRA railcar. The seat material should last for some ten years before showing signs of wear and tear.
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The breakfast-cereal approach: designers test material with muesli The passengers occupying the modern seats of the RhB’s ALLEGRA railcars sit back and relax to enjoy the window views and interior ambience. Christian Harbeke’s interior designs for the RhB are inspired by the railway line’s attractive passing views and the rich cultural landscape of Graubünden. Drawing on the work of world-famous contemporary local architects like Gion A. Caminada or Peter Zumthor, the final design of the interior embodies the character of our mountain canton. It is for this reason that the wall covering, which convincingly simulates genuine wooden planking, bears the name „Vrin“ – the home village and professional base of Caminada. Like a bold wooden frontage, this wall covering runs right through the train. „Vals“ is the name given to the design of the covering of the equipment lockers, as a tribute to Zumthor’s impressive spa-town birthplace. The design reflects the layered stones that help give the town its character. The carpeting in first class takes up the „tweed“ theme once more. The floor-covering in second class needs to be particularly robust, in order to withstand melted slush, dust and the small stones that accumulate in the soles of hiking boots. It must also conceal the presence of dirt as much as possible. The designers therefore came up with a novel way of telling whether the covering is suitable for an Alpine railway: the muesli test. „We take a handful of dry muesli and spread it across the floor“, explains Mr Harbeke. „If the oats and raisins are barely visible, the train’s floor-covering is suitable for both winter and summer use.“
Inspired by British checkpatterns: the seats of our ALLEGRA railcars.
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The line network of the Rhaetian Railway High-points
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Rhine Gorge
Zürich
Basel Bern
Chur
SCHWEIZ 2
Langwieser Viaduct
Genève Genè
Graubünden
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Landwasser Viaduct
sté / r
Sed run
Oberalppass
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Wiesner Viaduct
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r
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Andermatt Visp Zermatt
ls Va
Lukmanier Biasca
Albula viaducts and winding tunnels
no rdi rna Be n Sa
SCHWEIZ SWITZERLAND SWITZERLAN SVIZZERA
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Ospizio Bernina
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Brusio Circular Viaduct
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Dates for your diary
new
Events at a glance
Albula Railway Museum
Up hill and down dale
Open from 2nd June 2012
Explore the Via Albula / Bernina
Take a journey back through time, with more
click-by-click instead of step-by-step,
than 400 exhibits on the history of the RhB.
without leaving home.
131
special
1924
Bernina Express Bus
Preda - Bergün sledging slope
1st April to 21st October 2012
Open from 14th December 2012
Enjoy the views between Tirano and
Ride the rails of a world-famous train to
Lugano, or vice versa.
1875
the best speedy fun on wooden runners.
223
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www.rhb.ch/contura
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new EAlbula special train (every Sunday)
100 years of the Chur - Disentis / Mustér line
from 3rd June to 2nd September 2012
16th / 17th June 2012
The train, and its nostalgic, green-livered
The best way there and back: The RhB is celebrat-
open wooden carriages, will be offering
ing the anniversary of the Chur – Disentis line
trips into the paradise on rails that is the
with an exciting series of scheduled events.
1858
1804
special
UNESCO World Heritage RhB.
Santa Claus trips
Full-moon ride
1st / 2nd December 2012
January, February, March 2013
Search the dark forest for Santa Claus with the help of the Märli fairy
1580
As the lights come on … full-moon rides on the Bernina Line.
987
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How well do you know the RhB? Monthly prize of a cuddly ibex toy!
How it works: Work out the nine puzzle answers. The initial letters of the correct answers (from top to bottom) give the solution. E-mail the solution, with „Competition“ in the subject line, to contura@rhb.ch, or send a postcard to: Rhaetian Railway Marketing Communications, Bahnhofstrasse 25, 7002 Chur, Switzerland. The monthly prize-draws for a cuddly toy ibex will take place up to 31st December 2012. Conditions of participation: Participation is free and legally non-binding. Winners will be notified in writing. There is no cash equivalent. No correspondence will be entered into, and there shall be no recourse to legal action. Personal data will be treated as confidential and not passed on to any third party or parties.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 1. The world’s slowest express train 2. Where the water bubbles up 3. RhB carriage with fleet no. WR-S 3820 4. Runs from Chur / Davos / St. Moritz to Tirano 5. Partner ice-hockey club of the RhB 6. Where the famous Circular Viaduct stands 7. The RhB’s most famous viaduct 8. Famous castle 9. Why doesn’t the train slide backwards?
Cuddly toy ibex: Fguaranteed to conjure up fond memories; available in the Rail Shop. 541
80
www.rhb.ch/contura
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Souvenirs for young and old alike www.rhb.ch/railshop
Selected: highlights of the Rail Shop’s wide range of items Check out our range of souvenirs, guidebooks and practical travel accessories at any main RhB railway station, or order online from www.rhb.ch/railshop
Wooden train set: at home in any child’s bedroom The ALLEGRA railcar model makes the dream of being a train driver become a little truer.
The RhB Swiss pocket knife: A useful item to have around Always on hand, for any situation. Ideal for cutting your picnic bread and opening a bottle of fine Veltlin wine. This pocket knife is a practical and versatile tool.
Inhalt Seite 2
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Via Albula / Bernina – hiking guidebook The guidebook includes ten different hikes through the UNESCO World Heritage „Rhaetian Railway in the Albula / Bernina Landscapes“, with 224 pages of exciting descriptions and background information.
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The RhB to hand: brochures and tourist maps www.rhb.ch/broschueren
In need of more ideas? To download brochures and tourist maps, go to www.rhb.ch/broschueren. Bernina Express From icy glaciers to swaying palms Experience one of the most spectacular ways to cross the Alps: the Albula and Bernina lines of the Rhaetian Railway. A particular high-point of the ride is the panoramic view from the Bernina Express – from mighty glaciers to palms.
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Glacier Express The world’s slowest express train Ride the rails up into the clouds, through untouched Alpine countryside, over roaring mountain streams and past towering walls of rock. Your panoramic trip through the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express really is a journey to remember, with high-points at both ends of the route.
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Contura This inspiring magazine shows you the very best parts of, and the most interesting stories about, the Rhaetian Railway. Always something new.
Tourist maps Our beautifully-designed tourist maps show you the highlights and top sights of the RhB.
New experiences: Subscribe to „Contura“ now www.rhb.ch/contura 82
www.rhb.ch/contura
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The RhB on the web www.rhb.ch
Community Details of current promotions, travel reports, impressions and video clips made by RhB fans can all be found on the „Rhätische Bahn AG” fan site on Facebook. Join the club! www.rhb.ch/facebook
How does a steam-powered snowplough keep the tracks clear in winter? What landscapes do our trains tackle in howling winds and harsh weather? Where do gourmet cuisine and train travel go together? www.rhb.ch/youtube
Saoseo: the legendary blue lake Way up in Valposchiavo, between the heights of the Bernina Pass and Poschiavo, in the Valley of Val di Campo, lies a place of peace and enchantment: the lake known as Lago di Saoseo. The shimmering, light-blue waters of the lake reflect the surrounding rocks under the morning sun. Some say that this is also the moment to catch the image of a ghostly face. Legend has it that such a face was seen long ago by a princess, whose heart was set on marrying a prince, and that the lake gets its colour from some blue flowers that she threw into its waters. Seeing the ghostly face in the water was the condition that the prince had placed on her marrying him. And who knows? Perhaps the legend still maintains its spell.
The Rhaetian Railway is Switzerland’s main Alpine rail operator. With its unique mountain routes, UNESCO World Heritage status and famous services like the Glacier and Bernina Express lines, it supplies a whole range of top-class rail travel experiences, with fantastic views included. www.rhb.ch/flickr
RhB-Newsletter Register for our newsletter, and be sure not to miss out on any of our current packages, discounts and brand-new offers aboard the Rhaetian Railway. www.rhb.ch/newsletter
RhB UNESCO World Heritage App for your iPhone Your mobile guide to the UNESCO World Heritage line The RhB iPhone App uses GPS technology to guide you along the Albula and Bernina lines. Interesting information on the railway and the places and sites to be found along the route is permanently available at the press of a button. www.rhb.ch/app
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Lake Saoseo, 2,028 metres above sea level. The lake can be reached, from the station at Poschiavo, by bus or on foot.
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www.rhb.ch
Rhaetian Railway Inc Bahnhofstrasse 25 CH-7002 Chur Tel +41 (0)81 288 65 65 Fax +41 (0)81 288 61 05 railservice@rhb.ch www.rhb.ch
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Contura The magazine of the Rhaetian Railway
The Rhine Gorge
UNESCO World Heritage
Glacier Express
Between rocks and water
A journey back through time, in the new Railway Museum
A visit to the on-board kitchen 22.03.12 10:44