This PostBus journey of the superlative leads from the cosmopolitan resort of St. Moritz along the Engadin's lakes and over the Maloya Pass to the wild and romantic Bergell Valley. Leafy chestnut groves, decorative houses, rugged cliffs and bizarre peaks give the southern Grisons valley a special appeal all its own.
In Castasegna, the Palm Express crosses the border to arrive at the North Italian town of Chiavenna, where the Maloya and the Splugen routes meet. The journey along Lake Como to Menaggio is especially scenic. At Porlezza you have reached the Lake of Lugano, and shortly thereafter the border at Gandria. This journey full of contrasts terminates at the Ticino's business hub of Lugano.
Tips
Take some time to visit the typical Bergell village of Soglio that sits on a sun-drenched terrace high above the valley. Sights to see are the quaint alleys and San Laurenzo Church. The Salis-Soglio family left their mark on the village; Palazzo Salis today is a historic hotel. It is well worth visiting its baroque garden where you will find a small restaurant.
Chiavenna (Italy) is a prospering town enjoyed by tourists and cultural visitors alike for its well-preserved historic town center. Worth visiting are the Treasure Museum and the old Bottonera Mill, where flour was milled to make pasta. A dinner at one of its typical crottos is a culinary treat.
Menaggio (Italy) lies on Lake Como and is the boarding point for a boat ride to Bellagio. The town of Bellagio is known for its picturesque location and splendid view of the Alps from the tip of its peninsula that divides the lake's two southern "arms". Don't miss a visit to Villa Melzi and its lovely gardens.
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