Engadin Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Engadin, Switzerland with our comprehensive travel guide. Read on for insider tips and recommendations.


Introduction to Engadin

Tucked away in the eastern Swiss Alps, Engadin is a picturesque and secluded valley known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. This stunning destination is home to sparkling lakes, snow-capped peaks, ancient towns, and museums that will delight history buffs and art aficionados alike. Engadin is the perfect place to explore Switzerland’s spectacular landscapes, indulge in a variety of activities, and experience Swiss culture up close.

List of Places to Visit in Engadin

Here are the must-see places to visit in Engadin:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Segantini Museum: This museum houses the works of Giovanni Segantini, an Italian painter who spent the last years of his life in Engadin.

  2. St. Moritz Church: This beautiful church is a must-visit for art and architecture lovers.

  3. Muottas Muragl: This place offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and an opportunity to learn about Engadin’s unique flora and fauna.

  4. Engadine Museum: This fascinating museum showcases the history and culture of Engadin through exhibits on traditional costumes, farming, and hunting.

Natural Attractions of Engadin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Bernina Express: Take a scenic train ride along one of the most picturesque routes in Switzerland, which includes glaciers, mountains, and the stunning Landwasserviadukt bridge.

  2. Corvatsch Mountain: This mountain offers an unforgettable skiing and snowboarding experience, as well as panoramic views of the valley.

  3. Lake Sils: This serene lake is surrounded by picturesque mountains and is an excellent spot for fishing, swimming, and boating.

  4. Diavolezza: A must-visit for adventure enthusiasts, who can ski, snowboard, and even paraglide here with breathtaking views of the valley.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Engadin

  1. Muottas Muragl Panoramic Trail: This 1-hour hiking trail offers stunning panoramic views of the valley.

  2. Alp Languard: This is the perfect spot for mountain hiking, with stunning views and several options for trekking.

  3. Val Roseg: This is a beautiful 3-hour hiking trail that takes you through the valley of Roseg.

  4. Suvretta Pass: This is a relatively easy hike that rewards you with amazing views over St Moritz, Piz Nair, and the Roseg Valley.

Best Things to Do in Engadin: Activities and Tours

  1. Engadin Golf: This is a world-famous golf course known for its stunning views, and is designed by architect Mario Verdieri.

  2. Lakeside Segway Tour: This tour takes you through the picturesque Engadin lakes, and provides an exciting Segway experience.

  3. Swiss National Park: This park covers 170 square kilometers of the Swiss Alps, and is an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts.

  4. Mountain-Biking: There are several biking trails in Engadin that range from easy to challenging, so there’s an option for anyone looking for a biking experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Engadin

Day 1: Explore St. Moritz and its various attractions.

Day 2: Visit the Segantini Museum and take a tour of the surrounding area.

Day 3: Explore the outdoors and take a cable car to the Corvatsch mountain.

Day 4: Visit Lake Sils and enjoy water sports or fishing.

Day 5: Take a scenic train ride on the Bernina Express.

Day 6: Go skiing or snowboarding in Diavolezza.

Day 7: Take a guided tour of the Swiss National Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Engadin

Engadin is known for its delicious local delicacies, which includes:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pizzoccheri: A delicious pasta dish that contains buckwheat noodles, potatoes, cheese, and vegetables.

  2. Capuns: This is a unique dish made of chard leaves and filled with a variety of meats and baked in a creamy gravy.

  3. Churer Fleischtorte: A meat pie with a delicious, flaky crust and a variety of meats, onions, and spices.

  4. Maluns: A type of Swis hashbrown made with boiled potatoes, milk, flour, salt, and butter.

Local Beverages

  1. Bündner Röteli: This is a delicious cherry liqueur that is a must-try for anyone visiting Engadin.

  2. Swiss wine: Switzerland is known for its excellent wines, and Engadin is no exception, with several vineyards scattered throughout the region.

Where to Stay in Engadin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hotel Europa: This beautiful hotel offers excellent service, a variety of rooms, and a prime location.

  2. Hostel by Randolins: This is a budget-friendly hostel with stunning mountain views and a terrace for relaxing.

  3. Hotel Chesa Rosatsch: This hotel is located in the heart of Engadin and offers a variety of amenities, including a spa and restaurant.

What to Buy in Engadin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Swiss chocolate: Switzerland is famous for its delicious chocolate, and there are several shops in Engadin that sell a variety of chocolates.

  2. Handmade pottery: Engadin is home to several talented potters who produce unique and beautiful ceramic pieces.

  3. Traditional clothing: Switzerland is known for its traditional clothing, and Engadin is no exception, with several shops selling beautiful dresses, shirts, and hats.

Local Culture and Customs of Engadin

Engadin is a region steeped in tradition, with a fascinating cultural heritage that includes intricate folk costumes, woodcarving, and traditional music. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Engadin

The best time to visit Engadin is in the summer and winter, with both seasons offering a variety of activities and attractions. In summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and water sports, while in winter, skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports are the main attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Engadin

Do:

  1. Learn a few words of Romansh, a local language spoken in Engadin.

  2. Respect local customs and traditions.

  3. Try the local cuisine and beverages.

  4. Take advantage of the excellent outdoor activities

Don’t:

  1. Litter or deface natural landmarks.

  2. Disrespect local religious customs and beliefs.

  3. Ignore safety guidelines and regulations.

  4. Leave valuables unattended in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Engadin

Engadin is generally a safe and secure place, with low crime rates and friendly locals. Visitors are reminded to take common-sense precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight and not leaving personal items unattended.

Health in Engadin

Engadin has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors are encouraged to obtain travel insurance before their trip in case of medical emergencies.

Getting to Engadin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Engadin

The closest airport to Engadin is Zurich Airport, which is approximately 200 kilometers away. Visitors can take a train or bus from the airport to Engadin.

Bus Stations Near Engadin

Engadin is well-connected by bus, with several bus stations throughout the valley. The main bus station is in St. Moritz, with several other stations scattered throughout the region.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train journey to St. Moritz with the Glacier Express, which is an excellent way to experience the stunning scenery of the Swiss Alps.

How to Get Around in Engadin

Engadin is relatively easy to navigate, with several public transportation options available, including buses, trains, and cable cars. Visitors can also rent a car to explore the region at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Engadin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Zurich: This vibrant city is the largest city in Switzerland and is located approximately 200 kilometers away from Engadin.

  2. Lucerne: This charming town is a popular destination for its medieval architecture and beautiful lake.

  3. Lake Como: This picturesque lake is located just across the border in Italy and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Engadin.

Conclusion

Engadin is a beautiful and unique destination that offers something for everyone, from stunning natural landscapes to rich cultural heritage. This comprehensive guide provides visitors with insider tips and recommendations to help them plan the perfect trip to Engadin. So pack your bags, and get ready to explore Switzerland’s hidden gem!