Parc Ela. Experience nature at its most original in Parc Ela.
Intro
Parc Ela in the heart of Graubünden is the biggest nature reserve in Switzerland. Defined by steep mountain peaks, rolling meadows, glittering lakes and glaciers, this landscape is the perfect place for lengthy hikes – and the many local products make this a tour of culinary delights.
Day 1
Filisur: through Parc Ela by water
The Ansaina Waterway takes visitors past waters of all speeds and ferocity: thundering waterfalls, babbling mountain streams and wetlands in the heart of the forest. An impressive view is also afforded by the 65 metre Landwasser Viaduct, one of the highlights of the Rhaetian Railway. If hunger strikes along the way, the farm shop of Ranch Farsox and La Sorts organic farm are sure to have something to satisfy. They sell the best products from the region, including Alpine cheese, various dried meats, mountain potatoes and even fresh trout from Ranch Farsox’s very own trout farm. Those who wish to linger a little longer can stay overnight in a cosy trailer or tipi.
Day 2
Alp Flix: the Wild West in Graubünden
The Cotti Agricultura ranch is located on the high Alp Flix plateau in the mountains of Graubünden. It is the perfect starting point for glorious horse riding trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Traverse the breathtaking Flix highland moors on sure-footed horses and be amazed by what is often referred to as a treasure trove of biodiversity. A tour like this through the Alps is a chance to leave everyday life behind and enjoy some peace and tranquillity, only occasionally interrupted by the soft snorting of the horses. Back at the ranch, recharge your batteries with some delicious sheep’s cheese from the farm dairy.
Day 3
Savognin: woolly wonders
The bleating of sheep can be heard far and wide, even before they converge in a single white woolly mass over the old bridge of the village of Savognin to be relieved of their warm fleece. The annual sheep shearing in Parc Ela is a truly unmissable event. The shearing attracts numerous stall holders to a market offering a wealth of regional products. Delicious Alpine cheese is a culinary delicacy available to sample and buy. This autumn, the traditional sheep shearing and market will take place on 12 October.
Restaurant tip
Savognin: Restaurant Danilo
Restaurant Danilo welcomes its guests in a cosy setting. The panorama window and large sunny terrace afford magically expansive views of the Parc Ela hiking region to the accompaniment of culinary delights. The menu features delicious seasonal specialities and traditional Graubünden cuisine. Many are made using produce directly from Parc Ela, with goat’s cheese from a farm in Savognin and flour from Tiefencastel, for example. In autumn, game specialities are a particular treat for the taste buds, best enjoyed with a glass of Graubünden wine.
Hotel tip
Bergün: Kurhaus Bergün
Kurhaus Bergün looks back on a 100-year history during which the hotel has had to fight for survival more than once. Those days are over, with the Art Nouveau gem having been lovingly restored with true care and skill. It was subsequently crowned Historic Hotel of the Year in 2012. The blue dining hall, magnificent foyer and historic hotel bar take guests on a journey back to a time that could have scarcely been more aesthetically spectacular. Guests can choose to sleep in stylish hotel rooms, small dormitories or – if they want a little more space – in one of the pretty holiday apartments.