The Swiss Hotel Cut Off from the World for 12 Hours a Day
Perched high in the Swiss Alps, Alp Grüm is a unique hotel that remains cut off from the world for 12 hours each day. At 2,091 meters, this remarkable retreat sits on the Bernina Pass and can only be reached by the Rhaetian Railway. Between 20:00 and 08:00, the last train leaves, isolating the hotel completely. During these hours, the only sounds visitors hear are the whispers of nature—snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and stillness define the experience.
Primo Semadeni, the 57-year-old manager of Alp Grüm, embraces this isolation. He finds joy in the simplicity of life at this altitude. “There are no roads, just nature. Sunrises, sunsets, and quiet. It’s both a challenge and a blessing,” Semadeni explained while overlooking the pristine landscape.
A Historic Swiss Hotel
Alp Grüm’s roots are intertwined with the Bernina Line railway, which dates back to 1910. Initially, it was a modest timber cabin for the station chief to monitor the rail line. Over time, it grew into the stone-built, 10-room hotel we see today. Despite its transformation, the hotel has retained its peaceful remoteness, making it a favorite among adventurers seeking solitude.
Living and working here, however, isn’t without difficulties. All supplies, including food, arrive by train. Semadeni often jokes that if he forgets to order bread, they simply have to do without. The isolation is a way of life, not just a job.
Nature’s Serenity at Alp Grüm
For visitors, Alp Grüm offers unparalleled beauty and tranquility. The surrounding views of Palü Glacier, Lago Palü, and the winding Bernina Line below create a stunning backdrop. In summer, the hotel’s Alpine garden blooms with edelweiss and lemon balm. In winter, the landscape turns into a serene snowy retreat, offering peace that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Despite the challenges, Alp Grüm remains a favorite destination for hikers, nature lovers, and train enthusiasts. The experience of being in a Swiss hotel cut off from the world, surrounded by nature’s grandeur, leaves a lasting impression. It’s a journey into a place where time seems to stop, and life slows down.
To read more about this fascinating location, visit BBC News.
For additional travel insights, explore Kenkou Land.
