The first stage of the Avers packhorse route leads from Thusis through the legendary Viamala Gorge to Zillis and further to Andeer. In Zillis, the world-famous painted church ceiling from the 12th century fascinates guests from near and far. In Andeer, the water in the mineral bath offers relaxation and rejuvenation.
The path leads us either over the Traversiner footbridge (mountain hiking trail) or through the Lost Hole (a longer section on an asphalted road) to the famous Viamala Gorge. The hike then continues via Reischen to Zillis. The 12th-century St. Martin Church with its world-famous painted ceiling is worth a visit. On 153 exquisitely preserved panels, the life of Christ and a whole medieval worldview are depicted. If you have booked a room in Andeer, the hike continues through the dreamy villages of Donat and Clugin to the well-known spa town of Andeer.
Hidden Gem
Viamala Gorge: Carved into the massive rock by glacial ice and the water of the Hinterrhein thousands of years ago, living traces of a fascinating history can still be discovered today in the Viamala Gorge.
Painted Ceiling of St. Martin Church in Zillis: The Romanesque painted ceiling is world-famous. It has made St. Martin Church the "Sistine Chapel of the Alps."
Mineral Bath Andeer: In the warm, mineral-rich water of the bath, body and mind relax naturally. For centuries, people have appreciated the healing effects of the spring – a place of peace and recovery in the midst of the impressive mountain landscape.
Safety Note
On certain sections, surefootedness and a head for heights are required (bridges). Consider the alternative via the "Lost Hole."
Equipment
Appropriate weatherproof equipment is strongly recommended.
Directions
Since summer 2005, two Viamala routes have been available for the first stage. One leads through the "Lost Hole," it is varied and has no special difficulties. However, it is important to mention that it runs on the Old Commercial Road and the path is paved. The main route, called "Veia Traversina," leads from Sils i.D. via High Raetia and the new Traversiner footbridge (suspension bridge) into the Viamala Gorge. It is of great historical interest but significantly more demanding compared to the "Lost Hole" variant. At the Viamala visitor center, the path runs 250 m upstream along the road, then turns left and you reach the Hinterrhein via stone steps. After passing Punt da Suransuns, it continues on the right side of the Rhine to the Val da Bargias creek. The path then leads left to Reischen. At the end of the road, you take the forest path up to the Cultira Dafora hill. Later you cross the old wooden bridge to Reischen and Zillis. The hike continues from here via Donat and Clugin to Andeer.
Directions
Public Transport
Thusis is accessible by train and PostBus. More information can be found in the SBB Online Timetable.
Travel Information
On the A13/E43, exit no. 22 "Thusis South." Plan your arrival with the Google Route Planner.
Spanning the largest and wildest ravine between Sils i.D. and the Viamala Gorge is a bridge unlike any other: The Traversiner footbridge by world-famous bridge builder Jürg Conzett is a masterpiece of engineering.
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Narrow and straightforward, this bridge is part of the hiking trail network - for once not over the abyss of the Viamala, but directly over the Rhine, which rests here in a shimmering blue bay before plunging further through the gorge.
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The church of St. Martin in Zillis is also known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Alps" with its 12th century worldwide unique painted wooden ceiling and is one of the most important cultural assets in the Beverin Nature Park.
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The "Andeer" fireplace is located directly on the Hinterrhein not far from the village. It has a playground on the grounds and is very suitable for families.
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The 34 °C warm water in the Andeer mineral baths is simply good for you. Far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the healthy water washes away your worries and energises your body. Just water, warmth and fresh air!
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The Viamala Gorge is a natural spectacle, its historical development a unique cultural asset. These two facts were and are the starting points for the tourist development of the gorge. Its basis is and remains the staircase and rock gallery built in 1903.
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