Via Engiadina

The fourth stage of the Via Engiadina route begins in the enchanting village of Bever. The Val Bever stretches out to the west, and the Crasta Mora mountain rises steeply to the north at a height of almost 3,000 metres. On its eastern slope, the first half of the hike covers rocky ground running through attractive coniferous forests.

Then comes a varied trail with ascents and descents. At Acla Albertini the route goes left into the Val d'Alvra. A path leads to the Ova d'Alvra mountain stream. You cross this and continue to Muntischè on the hillside to the south-east. You see the village of Madulain down in the valley. It is the smallest community in the Upper Engadine, and also home to the valley’s largest castle complex. The ruins of Guardaval date back to the 13th century. Slag deposits from metal smelting furnaces also leave an impression of how people used to live in this valley.

You reach the highest point of the route at 1,976 metres at Plaun dalla Bes-cha. In this area, wooden footbridges make the path on the hillside easier to negotiate. The next descent leads across pastures and mountain streams to Cuort San Gian, which is crossed by various ski lifts.

You reach Zuoz, the destination for this stage, via a narrow road. The village exudes traditional charm, with a look that is characterised by typical Engadine houses with solid stone walls, round arches and façades, partly decorated using the sgraffito technique.