Bernina Gran Turismo historic hillclimb returns in September

The Bernina Gran Turismo historic hillclimb returns to the Swiss Alps from September 11 to 13, 2026. The event on the Bernina Pass will mix historic and modern racing cars on a 5.4-kilometre mountain road.

What makes the event distinct is its variety. Very different eras and types of cars will participate, from pre-war racing machines to modern-day hypercars. Different generations of drivers, from veterans to talented teenage beginners, will also share the challenging road. Specific automotive highlights mentioned for this year include a 1955 Mercedes 300 SLR, a 1965 Shelby GT350, and the rally icon Lancia Stratos HF.

The course and timetable

The course runs from the historic hamlet of La Rösa to the top of the Bernina Pass at roughly 1,870 metres above sea level. It combines fast sections, hairpins, and sudden elevation changes. The weekend begins in St. Moritz with public scrutineering at the Kulm Country Club from 9am on Friday.

Later that afternoon, competitors will drive over the pass towards Bernina. Saturday morning is devoted to two free practice sessions, followed by the first two races starting at 1.30pm from La Rösa. Sunday brings two further races in the morning, with an awards ceremony in Poschiavo from 1pm.

New features for 2026

Organisers are implementing several changes for the 2026 edition. La Rösa will have its own mini Race Village and a second large screen. The Race Village at the top of the pass will be expanded with a VIP Tent and sponsor activities.

Audi and Bovensiepen both promise to bring a selection of very unusual cars. During the race, drivers will have the opportunity to refuel for free with Synhelion's synthetic gasoline.

Spectator and travel information

Throughout the weekend, shuttle buses will run from Poschiavo up to La Rösa and from Lagalb (and Diavolezza) up to Ospizio Bernina roughly every 20 minutes. These complement the hourly PostBus and train services. The road will be open to regular traffic during the midday break from 12:10 to 13:30. Food and coffee will be available at the Ospizio Bernina, the Race Village, and La Rösa.

The entire event will be streamed live on YouTube and Swiss Sport TV. Classic Driver returns as the event's official media partner. Its content team will provide highlights on Instagram and produce a feature film for its YouTube channel after the event.

The event has grown since its relaunch under Ana Engelhorn, daughter of founder Kurt Engelhorn. The report states it remains different from events where cars feel like props for social media. Here, the road and the Alps are the main attraction. Cars are driven properly and the atmosphere is relaxed and community-driven. Last year offered wonderful weather, but the report notes September in the mountains can bring sunshine, rain, cold, or snow within the same afternoon.