Laax Travel Guide

Plan the perfect trip to Laax, Switzerland with this comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and food scene, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Laax

Known for its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages and world-class ski resorts, Laax is a hidden gem nestled in the Graubünden region of Switzerland. This stunning alpine getaway offers visitors an array of year-round activities, from hiking and mountain biking, to skiing and snowboarding in the winter. Laax combines the perfect blend of modern amenities with old-world charm, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Laax

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Laax Museum: Built in the early 20th century, the museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits dedicated to the local history and culture of the region.
  • Church of St. John the Baptist: Constructed in the 13th century, the church is a testament to the Romanesque architecture of the era and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Castle of Laax: A well-known landmark in the region, the castle dates back to the 16th century and features beautiful frescoes and ornate furnishings.

Natural Attractions of Laax: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Laax Ski Resort: The resort spans over 235 kilometers of slopes and boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding facilities in the region.
  • Rhine Gorge: Known as the Grand Canyon of Switzerland, this natural wonder is a must-see with its stunning views and hiking trails.
  • Cresta Lake: A popular spot in the summer, this crystal clear lake offers swimming, boating, and other water-based activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Laax

Laax is a hiker’s and mountain biker’s paradise with numerous scenic trails that offer breath-taking views of the surrounding alpine landscapes. Some of the most popular trails include:

  • Panorama Trail: A 2-hour hike that starts in the village and takes you to the top of the cable car station.
  • Laaxersee Trail: A relatively easy 6-kilometer hike that takes you around the picturesque Laaxersee Lake.
  • Vorab Glacier Trail: A challenging, full-day hike that takes you up to the glacier with stunning scenic views throughout.

Best Things to Do in Laax: Activities and Tours

  • Ski and Snowboarding: This is one of the biggest reasons why people visit Laax with its vast array of slopes, world-class facilities, and stunning views.
  • Snowshoeing: An excellent way to explore the mountainous landscapes of Laax while enjoying the crisp, clean air.
  • Canyoning: The Rhine Gorge offers a thrilling experience with its steep cliffs and wild rapids.

Week-Long Itinerary for Laax

Day 1: Arrival and visit to Laax Village

Day 2: Panorama Trail hike and visit to the local museum

Day 3: Ski and snowboarding at the Laax Ski Resort

Day 4: Rhine Gorge hiking trail and relaxing at Cresta Lake

Day 5: Snowshoeing and canyoning in the Rhine Gorge

Day 6: Visit to the Castle of Laax and Church of St. John the Baptist

Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Laax

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheese Fondue: A Swiss classic, this dish is a must-try when in Laax.
  • Bündner Nusstorte: A delicious pastry made with locally sourced nuts and honey.
  • Capuns: A traditional dish made with strips of meat wrapped in chard leaves.

Local Beverages

  • Bündner Bier: A delicious beer brewed in the region with local ingredients.
  • Süssmost: A sweet and refreshing non-alcoholic beverage made of apple juice.

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

Laax offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best options include:

  • Rocksresort: A modern and stylish ski-in/ski-out hotel with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Riders Palace: A trendy and chic hotel with a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene.
  • Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly option for backpackers and solo travelers.

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

  • Swiss Chocolates: A perfect souvenir to take home and enjoy the delicious taste of Swiss chocolates.
  • Bündner Nusstorte: A sweet pastry made with locally sourced nuts and honey, makes for an excellent gift to bring back home.
  • Swiss Army Knife: A classic Swiss-made product, that makes for a useful and practical souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Laax

Laax has a rich cultural heritage with a unique blend of traditions that reflect its location and history. While visiting Laax, it is essential to respect the local customs and traditions, such as being punctual, being conservative in your dress sense, and not littering in public places.

Best Time to Visit Laax

Laax is a year-round destination, each season offering its own unique charm. For those interested in skiing and snowboarding, the winter months from December to March is the best time to visit. For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, the summer months from June to September are ideal.

Do’s and Don’ts of Laax

Do:

  • Do carry warm clothing, even during summer months, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
  • Do carry sunscreen and sunglasses, particularly in the summertime, when the sun is at its strongest.
  • Do enjoy the local cuisine and delicacies.

Don’t:

  • Don’t ignore the local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t litter in public places.
  • Don’t forget to conserve energy and be mindful of the environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Laax

Laax is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is always essential to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Be mindful of your belongings in public places and use lockers provided at ski resorts to safeguard your valuables.

Health in Laax

Laax has a good healthcare system and medical facilities, with hospitals and clinics located in nearby towns. It is essential to have adequate travel insurance before visiting Laax as healthcare costs can be quite high.

Getting to Laax: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Laax

The closest airports to Laax are Zurich Airport and Milan Malpensa Airport, both of which are approximately a 2-3 hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Laax

The Swiss Post Bus service connects Laax with other nearby towns and villages in the region.

Other Options

Train services are available to the nearby towns and villages, with the closest train station being Chur.

How to Get Around in Laax

Laax is easily accessible by foot or bicycle, the most popular way to explore the area, with rental services available. City buses or the Swiss Post Bus service is also available, connecting visitors to nearby towns and villages.

Where to Go Next from Laax: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bernina Express: A scenic train journey that takes you through picturesque landscapes of the Glaciers and the Alps.
  • St. Moritz: A well-known ski destination famous for its luxurious lifestyle, high-end shopping, and Swiss hospitality.

Conclusion

Laax is a true paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering endless possibilities in activities and scenic views. The region is rich in history, culture, and tradition, making it a perfect destination for those who want to immerse themselves in everything that Switzerland has to offer.

Laax Village in the winter Laax Village in the winter The lake The lake Crap Masegn cable car station and skiers Crap Masegn cable car station and skiers The mountain Crap Sogn Gion seen from Flims village The mountain Crap Sogn Gion seen from Flims village The Laax superpipe is the world's largest halfpipe <!--according to WP:de:Superpipe--> The Laax superpipe is the world's largest halfpipe