Palm Express

In summertime there is a wonderful bus excursion, called the Palm Express, which leaves daily from Saint Moritz and goes to Lugano, on Lake Lugano (about a 4-hour journey). This adventure is enticing as it blends two remarkably beautiful regions that are totally different in scenery, ambiance, and climate, yet equally lovely. You climb aboard the bright yellow postal bus in Saint Moritz where snow still caps the mountain peaks, and end your journey in balmy Lake Lugano where palm trees and tropical plants abound. The only way to travel this itinerary is by bus (or car) since no train route exists. The scenery is so outstanding along the way that you will be happy you opted for the bus so that no one will have to be at the wheel of the car and miss the ever-changing vistas. Your first part of the journey takes you south from Saint Moritz through the scenic Engadine Valley and past the pristine twin lakes of Silvaplana and Silser. Then the road climbs over the Maloja Pass and drops down into the narrow Bregaglia Valley, which is embraced by high mountains. As the bus continues south, ancient villages perched on mountain ledges come into view. Soon you cross the border into Italy where the road traces the shoreline of beautiful Lake Como and then cuts west to Lake Lugano. The bus drivers display admirable skill as they drive along the narrow roads and inch through the tiny streets of medieval villages, which were never designed for cars or buses. All too soon you are in Lugano, which has a remarkably romantic setting on the edge of the shimmering Lake Lugano. The train station (where the bus arrives) is on a shelf above the town. There is a funicular near the station that takes you down to the colorful historic center of the city. Note: Remember to take your passport since you will be going through Italy.