From Saint-Moritz to Zermatt aboard the Glacier Express, the train that made the Swiss talk and tourists marvel

The Glacier Express, a renowned Swiss train, offers a journey that connects the opulent resort of Saint-Moritz with Zermatt, traversing diverse Swiss landscapes and providing a unique perspective on the country's movement.

Saint-Moritz itself is presented as a dazzling display of wealth, with its main street, Via Serlas, lined with luxury brand stores such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Cartier. The presence of the five-star Badrutt's Palace hotel and parked Rolls-Royce Phantoms further emphasizes the resort's exclusive atmosphere. This high-end facade is described as creating an impression of a "Potemkin village," with a sense of artificiality, particularly during the summer season.

For a more grounded experience, the Chamanna Bar offers a glimpse into local life, serving Calanda beer and playing Swiss German music. Despite the high prices, with a large beer costing 6.80 francs, the bar provides a contrast to the surrounding luxury, attracting seasonal workers. This juxtaposition highlights Saint-Moritz as a place of "contrast, between a Rolex boutique and a dive bar for Italian seasonal workers."

This article is part of a five-episode series by Le Temps that explores various Swiss train lines. These routes are presented as more than just transportation; they are depicted as narratives that trace the faces of a "Switzerland in motion," offering intimate views from the platform, cabin, or carriage.