We are supposed to change trains here, on the way to Pontresina from Lucerne. The Sbb site says walk 2 feet to change. Seems a bit odd- what do I need to know?
Also, some of the routes warn about German train strikes, so how do I avoid these hassles? I assume some connections are German trains?
Thx to all for your help.
The Samedan station is very small - it might be that the train you need to take will arrive on the same track.
From Wikipedia:
"The Samedan–Pontresina railway is a Swiss metre-gauge railway, which is operated by the Rhaetian Railway (Rhätischen Bahn; RhB). The line runs through the Upper Engadine and connects Samedan with Pontresina and provides a link between the Albula Railway and the Bernina Railway. The line is also often considered to be part of the Engadine line from Bever to Scuol-Tarasp with which it is closely linked operationally. The Samedan-Pontresina railway line is part of the RhB mainline network, so the kilometrage (chainage) has its zero point in Landquart.
Pontresina station is a two-system station. The trains from Samedan uses tracks 1 and 2 and the trains on the Bernina Railway use tracks 4 to 7. Track 3 has a switchable overhead line and is used for example by the Bernina Express from Chur to Tirano and the so-called Heidiexpress. This allows the entry and exit of trains under the required power system as well as changing system used in the station."
None of the trains in Samadan originate in or travel to Germany, but some of the passengers might.
The warnings are general - people use trains for all sorts of things in Europe, and some of the passengers may be coming from Germany or some may be planning to go there so as a courtesy the scheduling system warns them.
Don't worry about your connection in Samadan. It will be very clear. And easy. The Rhaetische Bahn is used to people from all over the world riding in their beautiful area and they make things work like clockwork for everybody...
I'm surprised that the SBB site is in feet and inches. Maybe it is 2 metres (about 6 feet). That would be from one track to the adjacent, or it could mean get off, stand still, and get on the next. Don't worry.
Nigel and Sharon,
maybe I misread, but thanks for your responses, and it was simple!
I forget that you are there.
So was it platform change or same platform?
How do you like Pontresina and Samadan?
Pontresina is one of my favorite places of Switzerland! I hope you’re having a fantastic time!
Nigel, I think it was the same platform, but I know it was easy. My mind is a little jumbled this morning.
We are looking at the weather forecast, deciding to do the rest of the Bernina Express today or tomorrow. I have printed out your responses from months ago, as we don't want to cross into Italy because of the ever-changing Covid rules. We will get off at one of the last stops and jump on the returning train. As I remember, not all returning trains stop at those tiny stops. I have some research to do today.
Sharon , when I got off the train and looked up the hill, I was underwhelmed ( RS term.) It was raining and we were waiting for the bus, and all looked gloomy. Then we got up the hill, had a nap, the sun came out, and explored this beautiful area. What a gem!
If you have the time, you might want to check out the views and hike a little up at Muottas Muragl! It is a bit expensive (not included in any pass) but the views are excellent and the funicular railway itself is charming.
Balso,
Went up there today, and you are right- gorgeous! Our hotel gave us a pass for the area lifts and buses.