Located in the canton of Graubünden, right on the border with Italy, Val Poschiavo is a unique presence in the Swiss Alps. The valley's primary everyday language is Italian, and its architecture leans toward the bright, cheerful hues of southern Europe. Here on the southern slope of the Alps, the climate is warmer and the culture decidedly more "southern."

Val Poschiavo Image Source: Tuchong

At the heart of the valley lies Lago di Poschiavo, its deep blue-green color coming from minerals carried by glacial meltwater. Surrounded by mountains, the lake features a gentle, easy 8-kilometer path along its shore, perfect for hiking or cycling. Here, the Alps do not reveal themselves in their rugged, dramatic form, but instead unfold in a mild and welcoming manner.

Yet the most breathtaking alpine vista in Val Poschiavo is found at the Alp Grüm viewpoint, at an elevation of 2,091 meters. Standing there, you look down on the vast Palü Glacier, with the tracks of the UNESCO World Heritage railway—the Bernina Express—right before you. A red train slowly approaches from a distant hillside, spiraling down against the backdrop of the glacier, eventually disappearing into the canyon leading to Italy. Train, glacier, and canyon captured in a single frame—it is the perfect fusion of Alpine railway engineering and natural beauty.

Editor Ⅰ: Zhang Congxiao

Editor Ⅱ: Bao Gang

Editor Ⅲ: Pan Kaiyue