Scuol Travel Guide

Explore Scuol, Switzerland with our comprehensive travel guide featuring everything from cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations, local customs and traditions, transportation, and more.


Introduction to Scuol

Nestled in the Engadin valley of Grisons (Graubünden) Canton in Central Switzerland, Scuol is a charming and picturesque Alpine town that offers visitors a mesmerizing blend of Swiss culture, history, and natural beauty. The town enjoys a mild climate, with plenty of sunshine throughout the year, coupled with stunning panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Silvretta, the Samnaun, and the Verstancla mountain ranges.

List of Places to Visit in Scuol

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bogn Engiadina - a unique wellness complex that showcases the rich mineral springs of Scuol and the history of spa culture in the region.
  • Schloss Tarasp - a stunning 11th-century castle that has survived the test of time and today hosts cultural events, concerts, and exhibits.
  • Sent-Gieri Church - the oldest church in Scuol, built in the 10th century, and known for its well-preserved frescos and religious artifacts.
  • Sgraffito Trail - a scenic walk that takes you through the historic center of Scuol, showcasing the traditional local art of sgraffito, which involves the decoration of house facades with intricate patterns of painted plaster.

Natural Attractions of Scuol: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Motta Naluns - Take a ride on the gondola lift to the summit of Motta Naluns and witness the stunning panoramic views of the Engadin valley and the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, paragliding, and skiing, depending on the season.
  • Val S-charl - A breathtaking valley situated south of Scuol, Val S-charl offers nature lovers an opportunity to revel in the picturesque beauty of alpine landscapes, flora, and fauna. Explore the valley’s hiking trails, discover numerous species of wildflowers and animals, and marvel at the spectacular waterfalls and glaciers.
  • Engadin Bad Scuol - Nestled in the scenic surroundings of Engadin mountains, Engadin Bad Scuol maintains its tradition of hospitality and offers spa treatments, mineral baths, and wellness programs for people seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Scuol

  • Nationalpark Bike Tour - a high alpine mountain bike tour over the Swiss National Park, offering scenic views and well-marked, well-maintained trails.
  • Engadine Bike Tour - a popular bike tour that traverses the stunning Engadine valley, showcasing quaint villages, historic landmarks, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Scuol: Activities and Tours

  • Skiing and Snowboarding - Scuol is a popular ski destination and offers visitors a plethora of skiing and snowboarding opportunities to satisfy their adrenaline rush.
  • Thermal Bath Relaxation - Engadiner Bad Scuol provides spa treatments, including healing mineral baths to help you unwind and enjoy the Alpine views.
  • Cultural Tours - Explore the cultural heritage, architecture, and history of Scuol through guided tours and activities like sgraffito tours and castle visits.

Week-Long Itinerary for Scuol

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Scuol’s town center and Sentiero dei Sgraffiti
Day 2 Visit Schloss Tarasp and the Tarasp village
Day 3-4 Ski/Snowboard at Motta Naluns or explore Val S-charl
Day 5 Take the Engadin Panorama Train to St. Moritz for a day trip
Day 6 Enjoy a custom wellness program at Engadine Bad Scuol
Day 7 Explore the Swiss National Park on a guided tour

Food and Drink Scene of Scuol

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pizokel - a traditional pasta dish made with flour, water, eggs, and local cheese. It is typically served with bacon or slivers of prosciutto and is a staple food in Engadine.
  • Churer Fleischtorte - savory meat pie made with tender beef and pork, wrapped inside a delicate puff pastry crust.
  • Birnbrot - a fruit bread that is made with dried pears, figs, and walnuts, wrapped with a spiced dough crust.

Local Beverages

  • Engadiner Mineralwasser - local mineral water that comes in classic, sparkling, and still varieties, and is known for its unique taste and healing properties.
  • Swiss Beer - Switzerland has a rich beer culture, and several microbreweries in the Engadin region produce outstanding artisanal beers that are well worth trying.

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

Scuol offers visitors a wide range of accommodation options that range from upscale hotels and wellness spas to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some recommended options are:

  • Hotel Belvair - a luxurious mountain lodge situated atop Motta Naluns, with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Hotel Altana - a well-appointed hotel that offers guests comfort and convenience while exploring Scuol’s natural beauty.
  • Chasa Viletta - a fully equipped chalet-style guesthouse with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

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

  • Sgraffiti Art - Sgraffito is a traditional art form that involves the decoration of house facades with intricate patterns of painted plaster. You can purchase replicas of these works of art as souvenirs.
  • Engadine Crystal - Handcrafted glass objects made from local quartz, Engadine crystal is famous for its unique texture and luster.
  • Engadin Food Specialties - Take home some of the region’s culinary treats like Pizokel, Churer Fleischtorte, or Birnbrot as a delicious souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Scuol

Scuol has a rich cultural heritage derived from over two thousand years of history, reflected in its unique architecture, art, and cuisine. The area is known for its traditional festivals, dances, songs, and costumes, which are rooted in the region’s history and folktales. Visitors can experience these cultural customs by visiting museums, attending festivals, or taking part in guided tours.

Best Time to Visit Scuol

The best time to visit Scuol is from June to September when the weather is mild, and visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and mountain climbing. Winter is an excellent time to visit for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, with snow lasting from December to April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Scuol

Do:

  • Respect cultural customs and traditions, particularly when taking part in any festivities or events.
  • Try and learn some of the local dialect - Romansch.
  • Keep your surroundings clean and avoid littering.

Don’t:

  • Wear shoes inside the houses or eating establishments.
  • Smoke or use vaping devices in public places.
  • Swim in lakes, rivers, and pools unless it’s explicitly allowed.

Safety and Health

Safety in Scuol

Scuol is a safe place to visit, with a low crime rate and a well-connected police force. Visitors should be careful when hiking in the mountains and should take all necessary precautions like carrying water, food, and proper gear depending on the season.

Health in Scuol

Scuol is located at an altitude of approximately 1,250 meters above sea level. It is advisable to acclimatize to the altitude gradually, especially if you come from lower altitudes. Visitors with asthma or respiratory problems may find it challenging to breathe in the thin air at high altitudes.

Getting to Scuol: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Scuol

The nearest international airports to Scuol are Zurich and Milan, from where visitors can take a train or bus to reach the town.

Bus Stations Near Scuol

Scuol is well-connected by bus services from nearby towns and cities. The Swiss Post Bus service connects Scuol to the neighboring towns/villages, including Zernez, S-chanf, Guarda, and Sent.

Other Options

Visitors to Scuol can also travel by car, taxi, or train, with trains running frequently from major Swiss cities.

How to Get Around in Scuol

Scuol is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance or accessible by public transport, including buses and gondolas.

Where to Go Next from Scuol: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • St. Moritz - Known worldwide for its luxury and glamour, St. Moritz is a quick train ride away from Scuol and offers visitors a taste of chic resorts, designer shopping, and Michelin-star dining.
  • Swiss National Park - A short drive from Scuol, the Swiss National Park is one of Europe’s largest nature reserves, and boasts a breathtaking array of flora and fauna.
  • Bormio, Italy - Located just over the border in Italy, the small town of Bormio is known for its hot springs, ski slopes, and renowned mountain bike trails.

Conclusion

Scuol’s unique combination of Swiss culture, natural beauty, and rich history makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking something off the beaten path. The town’s stunning landscapes, coupled with its rich cultural heritage, makes Scuol a must-visit destination in Switzerland for anyone looking to explore the Engadin valley and the surrounding regions.