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Intro

Numerous forts, castles, picturesque villages and cultivated landscapes: The cycle route in Domleschg impressively combines the rich history of the valley with its varied natural scenery. Paths that are easy to cycle on and stunning views of the surrounding mountain landscape make it ideal for leisure bikes and e-bikes.

Detour / Closure

There are detours or closures along this route, for more information see https://schweizmobil.ch/en/cycling-in-switzerland/route-502

Description

The Domleschg Castle Route explores the castle-rich landscape in the Viamala region by bike. Along the route, orchards, dry walls, hedges and forests alternate with impressive ruined forts and castles. The imposing historic buildings tower high over the valley and characterise the landscape.

Impressive sights include the Hochjuvalt ruins in Rothenbrunnen. While it isn’t directly on the route, you can plan in a detour. Only a section of wall of the five-storey keep is still recognisable. At Paspels, the four-storey ruin of Alt Süns is distinctively eye-catching. Whereas the ruins of Neu Sins / Canova are the only circular tower in the area. And then, of course, there is Schloss Schauenstein. This is in Fürstenau, directly on the route. It’s not only beautiful to look at – you can eat very well here too: With its multi-award-winning gourmet cuisine, it’s internationally renowned.

Some of the forts, ruins and castles are privately owned and not accessible to the public. However, they are all more or less visible points of orientation and tell the eventful history of Domleschg: In the Middle Ages, the valley was an important trading and transit route between the north and south of the Alps. The structures also bear witness to the strategic importance of changing rulers. The villages here are also distinctive: Traditional architecture, narrow alleys and well-maintained village centres bear witness to a lively cultural history. Along the way, you can see traces of farming activity as well as carefully maintained cultivated landscapes with meadows and gardens.

The Castle Route is varied, with views across the valley and the surrounding mountain scenery, including the Heinzenberg chain and the Beverin massif further to the south. A mixture of sections of surfaced road and maintained natural paths ensure a pleasant cycling experience. Gentle climbs alternate with flat passages. As it can be reached easily by public transport, the Castle Route can be tackled as a full-day tour or in stages.

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

Show Technical information content
Start location
Thusis
Destination
Thusis
Ascent
400 m
Descent
400 m
Distance
24 km
Distance on tarred ways
19 km
Distance on natural surface
5 km
Physical requirements
Easy
Signalization
Signalisation in both directions
More information https://schweizmobil.ch/en/cycling-in-switzerland/...

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Quick Facts

Route number

No. 502

Distance

24 km

Ascent

400 m

Travel information: Thusis

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