Scenery that will leave you speechless
Graubünden Alps
© Gian Giovanoli
In any other country the Engadin valley would be a National Park. Yes, it’s that beautiful. But in Switzerland it’s simply part of the landscape, albeit a particularly stunning part. The River Inn meanders its way towards the Austrian border, and in doing so creates this little slice of paradise. Cradled by mountains and dotted with lakes, it is beloved by anyone who relishes the outdoors. But Graubünden is far more than the Engadin, so get ready to experience unspoilt Alpine scenery, surprising art, stunning train rides and plenty of fresh air. Come here for a while: your body, and soul, will thank you for ages afterwards.
Relish the glitz of St Moritz
For somewhere with such a big reputation, St Moritz is remarkably small. This elegant resort sits high up (at 1856m) in the Engadin Valley so has plenty of sunshine and snow, making it a perfect winter destination: it even has horse racing on ice! Once the white stuff has gone, a relaxed serenity settles on St Moritz, with a delightful carousel of scenic hikes, cooling swims and al fresco dinners.
Admire art in the Alps
Art might not be on your mind when heading to the mountains but Graubünden has two excellent galleries. Tarasp Castle dates from the 11th century but today houses an extraordinary collection of art from the foundation of Not Vital, the most famous living Swiss artist. Or how about a private tour of Muzeum Susch, where experimental art is set amid the remains of a medieval monastery.
Unwind in Lenzerheide
Idyllic spots are an integral part of the Swiss landscape and you almost get used to seeing them. Then you come to Lenzerheide and know instantly that it’s a very special place. Sitting in a lush valley 1500m up, this relaxed resort is perfect for those wanting to escape for a few days of hiking, biking or simply relaxing. The ultimate tonic for modern life.
Enjoy a thrilling train trip
There are great Swiss railway journeys and then there’s the Bernina Express. It’s simply superb. Not only the dramatic scenery but also because this is no mountain train. Just a normal line using switchback bends and a 360° spiral viaduct to clamber up to 2253m and down again. It’s the highest rail crossing in Europe without cogs, and amazingly it’s open all year round.
Take the waters in Vals
This small mountain village is famous for one reason: mineral water. It emerges from underground at 30°C, and so warm enough for the renowned thermal baths. That’s where the Swiss star architect Peter Zumthor came in, designing a divine spa that has to be seen to be believed. His creation, using 60,000 plates of local quartzite, is a masterpiece of modern architecture.
Graubünden Alps in brief
Welcome to the largest canton in Switzerland. With few inhabitants and lots of open space, it’s the perfect place for enjoying the Swiss outdoors. While Davos may grab the headlines, there actually only one city in Graubünden: Chur, the cantonal capital, which claims to be the oldest city in Switzerland. Graubünden has three official languages: German, Italian and Romansh, a descendant of Latin that is only spoken here. Perhaps the most scenic way to reach Graubünden is by train – the Glacier Express ends (or begins, depending on which way you’re going) in St Moritz.
When to go
All year
Why go there
Alpine resorts
Mountain landscape
Fresh air
What to see
Engadin
Lenzerheide
Vals
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