A historic spa complex - Tarasp
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Introdução
Kurhaus Tarasp was one of the Engadine's first grand hotels. In the nineteenth century, the spa guests included kings and tsars. The mineral-rich springs and drinking cures were world-famous. The intact ensemble complete with spa park is a delight.
The Tarasp spa complex is located in the narrow gorge of the River Inn, flanked by steep crags and forests. In its secluded site, this self-contained complex is an important witness to a bygone era. Particularly striking is its state of preservation – all facilities connected with “taking the waters”, including the spa park, remain intact. On its inauguration in 1864, the magnificent grand hotel boasted 200 guest rooms, numerous salons, dining rooms and restaurants as well as a spa. It was extended several times: notable additions after 1875 include a pump room (the Büvetta), the Villa Victoria, and even a church. These were joined in 1912 by a new bath house.
In the heyday of spas in the nineteenth century, the spa hotel attracted an international clientele. Tourism was subsequently curbed by the start of the First World War and medical progress further diminished the popularity of spa cures. After a long break, the Kurhaus Tarasp reopened its doors at the end of December 2023 and has been offering overnight accommodation ever since. The former bath house is accommodating the Fundaziun Nairs “house of artists”. Together with the drinking hall, it ranks among the most important buildings of its kind anywhere in Switzerland.
Trip tip
For savouring the atmosphere of the former spa, a visit to the Kunsthalle Nairs art gallery is recommended. Occupying the former bath house, it hosts exhibitions of national and international contemporary art. The Büvetta drinking hall can be admired from the outside. Alternatively, in just under an hour, visitors can walk from Scuol to the Kurhaus Tarasp on a trail skirting the River Inn, and back along the other side of the valley.
ISOS
ISOS is the Federal Inventory of Swiss Heritage Sites of national importance. The inventory is maintained by the Federal Office of Culture (FOC) and lists the most significant settlements in Switzerland. Today, some 1,200 places are included in the inventory, from hamlets right through to cities. The inventory provides information on the development and identity of the settlements listed in it, thereby contributing to the preservation of architectural diversity in Switzerland and promoting both sustainable planning and a high-quality Baukultur.
