From Como, Alpine Wonders: Lunch at Diavolezza and Bernina

Exploring the Swiss Alps from Como: A Complete Review of the Diavolezza and Bernina Experience

Travelers craving a day of awe-inspiring mountain scenery and unique Swiss culture often look for trips that truly capture the essence of the Alps. This full-day tour to Diavolezza and Bernina, operated by FRIGERIO VIAGGI, promises an immersive experience with breathtaking views, a high-altitude lunch, and a scenic UNESCO World Heritage train ride. While the journey is quite long — around 12 hours — it offers a rich mix of natural beauty, culture, and adventure.

What we appreciate most about this tour is how it combines a spectacular cable car ascent to over 3,000 meters, with a leisurely, scenic train journey through some of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes. The guides are noted for their knowledge, and the views—especially from the Diavolezza Lodge and the Bernina train—are unforgettable. That said, it’s a full-day commitment, and travelers should be prepared for a long but rewarding experience. Ideal for those with a sense of adventure, an interest in Swiss scenery, or a desire to tick off some UNESCO-listed sights, this tour offers solid value for an authentic Alpine adventure.

Key Points

• Breathtaking panoramic views from the cable car and mountain lodge
• High-altitude lunch at Diavolezza Lodge at nearly 3,000 meters
• Scenic Bernina Red Train through UNESCO World Heritage landscapes
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insights and local knowledge
• Comfortable transportation from Como in a small group setting
• Long but rewarding day perfect for dedicated mountain lovers

An Overview of the Alpine Wonders Tour

This tour is designed to whisk you from the charming lakeside town of Como into Switzerland’s majestic Alps, combining several iconic sights into one seamless day. From the start at the B&B Hotel Como City Center, you’ll travel by comfortable coach through gorgeous alpine scenery, passing St. Moritz and other scenic spots en route. The journey itself, which takes about 70 minutes plus additional driving time, offers travelers a chance to appreciate the changing landscapes from Italy into Switzerland.

Once in Switzerland, the highlight is the cable car ride to Diavolezza, which ascends over 12 minutes, delivering you to an elevation of nearly 3,000 meters. Here, the views are in a league of their own—towering peaks, glittering glaciers, and expansive mountain ranges stretch as far as the eye can see. One reviewer noted, “The train ride was awesome!” and from the top, you might agree that the scenery is simply jaw-dropping.

After soaking in the vistas, a high-altitude lunch at the Diavolezza Lodge provides a chance to refuel while enjoying the Alpine surroundings. The lodge offers a cozy atmosphere with spectacular panoramas, making it a memorable dining experience. The lunch duration is approximately 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to relax and marvel at the scenery.

The Scenic Bernina Red Train Experience

Post-lunch, you’ll hop on the Bernina train, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its remarkable route. The train takes you through pristine valleys, over ancient stone bridges, and past quaint mountain villages. This two-hour ride is often highlighted as a standout part of the day, giving travelers a slow-paced, immersive view of the Swiss Alps and its charming settlements. As Kimberly put it, “The train ride was awesome,” emphasizing how captivating this segment is.

In Tirano, you’ll have a brief break to stretch and enjoy the local vibe before heading back to Como. The coach journey back is approximately 2.5 hours, allowing for some rest after a full day of adventure.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Starting Point in Como

The tour kicks off at the B&B Hotel Como City Center, where promptness is key. Being there 15 minutes early helps set a smooth tone for the long day ahead.

En Route to Switzerland

Traveling in a small group with a knowledgeable English and Italian-speaking guide, you’ll enjoy commentary on the way. The coach offers a comfortable environment, perfect for taking in the passing scenery or chatting with fellow travelers.

Swiss Mountain Highlights

The Diavolezza cable car offers jaw-dropping views of snow-covered peaks and glaciers. The ride itself is short but impactful, with panoramic windows providing maximum visibility. At the top, the expansive vistas are a photographer’s dream.

Lunch at 3,000 Meters

The Berghaus Diavolezza Lodge is the perfect spot to enjoy regional delicacies with a view that’s hard to beat. Reviewers mention the experience as “enchanting,” and many appreciate the chance to dine high up in the mountains amidst pristine scenery.

Scenic Train Ride

The Bernina Red Train, part of the UNESCO World Heritage system, is a highlight. It meanders through dramatic landscapes, crossing bridges and passing through tunnels, offering different perspectives of the Alps.

Return Journey and Tirano Stop

Tirano provides a brief opportunity for photos and exploring a charming Swiss town before heading back to Como. The journey back is long but smooth, and you’ll likely appreciate the chance to relax after a busy day.

What Travelers Say

Reviews shed light on what makes this tour special. Nicholas Timothy summed it up as “It went really well,” highlighting the smooth logistics and overall satisfaction. Kimberly’s enthusiasm about the train ride being “awesome!” echoes how memorable this part of the trip is. One less favorable review simply described the day as “Long,” which is fair — it’s a full 12-hour experience, but clearly packed with highlights.

Guests consistently mention the knowledgeable guides as a major plus, enriching the experience with insights about the scenery and local history. The views from the mountain top and train are often described as “breathtaking,” confirming that this tour is well worth the long day if you love mountains and scenic travel.

Transportation & Practicalities

Traveling by GT bus ensures comfort and convenience, especially considering the length of the day. The small group size—limited to 10 participants—means you’ll have a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get tailored insights.

The tour includes all major transportation tickets, including the cable car to Diavolezza and the Bernina train ticket from Bernina Diavolezza to Tirano. Food and drinks are not included, but the lunch at the lodge is a highlight, offering regional fare at high altitude.

Travelers are advised to bring passport or ID for crossing into Switzerland, and those with mobility issues might find the tour challenging due to the mountain terrain and transportation modes.

Is It Worth It?

For those who love mountain scenery, panoramic views, and a touch of Swiss culture, this tour offers an excellent balance of adventure and comfort. It provides a rare opportunity to see the UNESCO World Heritage Bernina line and stand at nearly 3,000 meters above sea level. The included lunch, scenic train ride, and guided commentary make it a well-rounded package.

While the day can feel lengthy, the diverse landscape, the thrill of the cable car, and the opportunity to relax on a legendary train make the journey feel justified. It’s especially suitable for travelers seeking an immersive, authentic Alpine experience without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for mountain lovers, train enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see some of Switzerland’s most iconic sights. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a long day on the go and who appreciate guided tours that blend scenery with cultural insights. Families with older children, couples, and solo travelers seeking a comprehensive Swiss Alps adventure will find plenty to love here.

However, those with mobility impairments or who prefer shorter, less intense trips might want to explore other options, as the tour involves quite a bit of walking and mountain transport.

Final Thoughts

This tour to Diavolezza and Bernina offers a wonderful way to experience the heart of the Swiss Alps from the comfort of a small group setting. The combination of breathtaking scenery, a memorable train ride, and a unique high-altitude lunch makes it a standout choice for travelers who want the full mountain experience.

The guides’ local knowledge and the well-organized itinerary help turn a long day into a seamless, enjoyable adventure. While it demands a full day’s commitment, the stunning vistas and authentic Swiss encounters are well worth it.

If you’re after a visually stunning, culturally rich, and comfortably paced mountain day, this trip is a strong contender. Just remember to pack your camera, passport, and patience for a journey that’s as rewarding as it is extensive.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It may be best suited for older children or teenagers, as the day involves a lot of traveling and mountain excursions, which could be tiring for very young kids.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID card, comfortable clothing for mountain weather, camera, and perhaps a light jacket — the weather at high altitude can be cooler.

Is lunch included?
Yes, you will enjoy a meal at the Diavolezza Lodge, which is included in the tour price. The lodge offers regional dishes with superb views.

How long is the train journey?
The Bernina Red Train ride lasts approximately two hours, traveling through scenic landscapes and crossing into Italy.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, providing a more intimate experience.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to mountain terrain and transportation modes.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The total duration is about 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
While most of the experience is outdoors, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled in severe weather for safety reasons.

Is it necessary to speak Italian or English?
The guides speak both English and Italian, ensuring clear communication throughout the day.

Can I cancel if plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, this tour offers a fantastic way to explore the Swiss Alps with ease and comfort. You’ll come away with stunning photos, stories to tell, and a deeper appreciation for Switzerland’s mountain majesty. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to the region, it’s a memorable adventure worth considering.