The route
From St. Moritz and Pontresina, the road climbs gently at the foot of the Bernina massif to the pass at 2,328 m. It then runs past the summit lakes before dropping towards Poschiavo in a series of wide bends, then on to Tirano and the Valtellina.
Not to be missed
The view of the Morteratsch glacier, Lago Bianco at the top and the UNESCO-listed Bernina Express, which you often meet along the way. Poschiavo and its Italian-style square are worth a stop.
Good to know
High altitude and changeable weather, even in summer. The border is crossed shortly before Tirano.
Opening dates depend on snow: always check road conditions before setting off (TCS, viasuisse or the Italian and French road authorities).