The village of Malans lies upstream from where the Landquart River meets the Rhine. Together with nearby Maienfeld and the wine-growing villages of Jenins and Fläsch, it forms part of the Bündner Herrschaft, a region often referred to as the “Garden of Graubünden” thanks to its favourable climate. Two major fires in the 17th century shaped Malans’ development. Reconstruction was swift, and many patrician houses from that period still stand today, particularly in the village centre. Malans also impresses with its star-shaped network of narrow, closely built streets and the vineyards that extend deep into the heart of the village. 

The picturesque village of Sent, located in the Lower Engadine, enjoys a sunny, panoramic position high above the valley, surrounded by wide-open farmland and forested slopes. A stronghold of the Romansh language, Sent has preserved its cultural identity. In the village centre, traditional farms and elegant townhouses line a maze of narrow alleys, punctuated by a few broader streets and small squares. The main village square, with its striking fountain, is especially eye-catching. On the outskirts, you’ll find typical Engadine farmhouses that survived the fires which once swept through the village. Visible from afar, the late-Gothic Church of San Lurench occupies a prominent spot, while at the village’s western edge, the ruins of the San Peder church—now privately owned—stand as an iconic local landmark.

Nestled in the Bregaglia Valley near the Italian border, the village of Castasegna lies just above the Maira River amid pristine natural surroundings. Chestnut groves stretch across both sides of the valley, enveloping the village in greenery. Situated at 686 metres above sea level, Castasegna surprises visitors with its compact, almost urban village centre. Its proximity to Italian towns like Chiavenna and its strategic position on an old trade route brought early prosperity to the area. Above the village, you'll find one of Europe’s largest chestnut groves. Scattered among the trees are small stone huts—former chestnut-drying sheds known as cascine. Visitors can learn more by following the educational chestnut trail. Also set within the grove, on a slope above the village, is a distinctive housing estate designed by architect Bruno Giacometti in the 1950s. 

Perched on a plateau along the steep, forested slopes of the Valle Mesolcina, the village of Soazza is part of the Italian-speaking region of Graubünden. This north-south valley lies between Bellinzona and the San Bernardino Pass. The village’s main attraction is the parish church of San Martino, which sits proudly on a hill above the rooftops. Inside, visitors will find an impressive collection of artworks, including the renowned Vedani organ. A scenic footpath follows the route of the now-defunct railway line between Mesocco and Boffalora, winding through striking landscapes, across bridges and through tunnels—a peaceful journey into the past.

In the Upper Engadine, where snow-capped peaks tower above alpine valleys, lies the charming village of Zuoz. A dream destination for culture lovers, the Castell Hotel—once a sanatorium—now combines wellness, architecture and contemporary art. Like the hotel, the village itself is rich in character, with galleries and elegant patrician houses adorned with traditional sgraffito. For a taste of local flavour, visit the Dorta restaurant, housed in a typical Engadine building, where specialities like rösti, cheese fondue and pasta are served—after all, Italy is just over the mountains. Don’t miss Europe’s highest coffee roastery, located next to Caferama, a museum dedicated to coffee. Zuoz is also the perfect starting point for the Maloja–Zernez cycle path, which traces the River Inn past dramatic peaks, serene lakes and the glamorous town of St. Moritz—a ride through a truly unique landscape.

Getting there: There are two scenic train routes to choose from. Adventurous travellers may opt for the UNESCO World Heritage route from Zurich via the Albula Valley and Samedan to Zuoz. A faster alternative runs through Landquart and Klosters.

Nestled in one of Switzerland’s most stunning alpine valleys, Müstair is the perfect starting point for exploring the Val Müstair Nature Park. Hop on a bike and follow the classic route from Buffalora to Sta. Maria, passing through pristine landscapes and remote mountain villages. After your ride, reward yourself with a treat from the Meier-beck bakery—famous for its award-winning tartlets made with organic Bündnerfleisch and local nuts. To reach even the most secluded spots, take the iconic yellow PostBus through the valley’s winding roads. For a restful stay, the Chalavaina Hotel offers rustic charm and modern comfort in two lovingly restored historic buildings. Just a short stroll away, don’t miss the Benedictine Convent of St. John, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This architectural gem dates back to around 800 AD and boasts the most extensive series of figurative frescoes in Switzerland, as well as an engaging monastic museum.

Getting there: Travel by train from Zurich to Landquart, continue with the Rhaetian Railway to Zernez, and then take the PostBus to Müstair.

Tucked away in a side valley near Davos and Klosters, the peaceful hamlet of Sertig is a romantic alpine retreat. Traditional farms and wooden barns reflect the legacy of the Walser people, who settled in the region in the 13th century. A horse-drawn carriage ride through the valley is a timeless way to experience its charm. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the legendary "Alps Epic Trail Davos"—named one of the best trails in the world by the IMBA—is a must. It’s a challenging ride, so an e-bike might be a welcome companion! Prefer something gentler? Try the circular hike from Sertig Dörfli to the Ducan waterfall, ideal for a more relaxed outing. Local hospitality is on full display at the Zum Bergführer restaurant, housed in a century-old building serving hearty regional dishes. For overnight stays, the Hotel Walserhuus-Sertig offers cozy alpine comfort, with room keys adorned with delicate edelweiss flowers—a fitting touch for this postcard-perfect destination, framed by mountain peaks and crystal-clear streams.

Getting there: Take the train from Zurich to Landquart, continue on the Rhaetian Railway to Davos Platz, then hop on PostBus line 8 to reach Sertig.

The Albula railway line is an engineering marvel that winds its way through dramatic gorges, dense forests, and alpine landscapes. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage route, it includes the iconic Landwasser Viaduct—65 metres tall and supported by five towering stone pillars. Nestled at the foot of the Albula Pass lies Bergün, a picture-perfect mountain village. The Albula Railway Museum celebrates the history of this legendary train route and even features a detailed miniature railway. Just a short walk away, the Kurhaus Bergün impresses with its elegant Art Nouveau architecture and relaxing wellness facilities. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in Parc Ela, Switzerland’s largest nature park, where wildflowers, streams and sleepy hamlets abound. A must-see is Lake Palpuogna—voted “Switzerland’s most beautiful spot” in a national TV poll.

Getting there: Take the train to Chur, then continue on the Rhaetian Railway via the Albula line to Bergün (direction St. Moritz). From the south, travel via Samedan on the RhB.

The rugged Valsertal valley and its side valleys offer a paradise for hikers. The Three Lakes hike is among the most beautiful trails, featuring hidden lakes nestled between steep rock faces and alpine meadows. If this landscape captivates you, why not spend a night like a mountain nomad in one of the yurts near the Hängela Hütte (1820 m)? For something different, Gasthaus Zervreila lets you enjoy lunch before scootering back down to the valley from their restaurant-chalet. While all this is spectacular, Vals is best known for its renowned thermal baths—a masterpiece of architecture by Peter Zumthor, built from local quartzite atop a natural hot spring. The spa is a protected heritage site. The adjoining Silver restaurant is equally exquisite, serving wild regional ingredients presented as culinary art.

Getting there: Take the Rhätische Bahn from Chur or Disentis to Ilanz, then continue by PostBus to Vals.

The Hotel Albrici, originally a seventeenth-century palace, became the first hotel in Poschiavo in 1848. The area is rich in historic buildings, and life in this valley remains authentic. The "100% Valposchiavo" label highlights this authenticity by showcasing beautiful local products — from flowers to alpine cheeses. On the Val da Camp hike, you pass through lush alpine meadows, but the true highlights are the lakes Lagh da Saoseo and Lagh da Viola — two mountain lake gems. Hop aboard the legendary Bernina Express near Poschiavo. The train ride is a memorable experience, especially at the Brusio Circular Viaduct. From the Cavaglia train station (1,693 m), you can walk to a natural wonder: the Cavaglia Glacier Garden. Formed by the pressure of icy water combined with rotating rocks and sands, this site features deep rock holes known as "giants’ potholes."

Getting there: Take the train from Zurich to Chur, then transfer to the legendary Rhaetian Railway to Poschiavo — a scenic 4.5-hour journey. From Milan, Poschiavo is a 3-hour trip by train.