Rheinschlucht: From Ilanz to Versam into the heart of the Rheinschlucht

Open

Medium

11.4 km

3:10 h

88 mhd

151 mhd

Sommer in der Rheinschlucht: Die Chrummwag

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The Rheinschlucht is known as the "Grand Canyon" of Switzerland. This hike offers a unique insight into the flora and fauna as well as the geology of the historic Flims rockslide.

Overview
Details
Description
Directions
Directions
Waypoints

Plan this tour

Technique

Fitness

Highest Point 736 m

Lowest Point 635 m

Best Season

Jan

Feb

Mär

Apr

Mai

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Okt

Nov

Dez

Start

Ilanz

Destination

Versam-Safien station

Coordinates

46.775174, 9.207978

Details

Description

The hike along the Vorderrhein passes through a floodplain landscape of national significance. The "Swiss Grand Canyon", wild and pristine, provides habitat for a variety of plants and animals. These include the highly endangered bird species the little ringed plover and the common sandpiper, which are native to the Rheinschlucht. Only 80 to 120 pairs of each species still breed in Switzerland, half of them in the canton of Graubünden. In springtime, the laying of eggs, incubation, and feeding of the young take place. However, be careful, human disturbance during this time endangers the brood. Therefore, there is a prohibition of access between April 1 and July 15 in the designated protected areas.

On the slopes of the Rheinschlucht, ecologically valuable juniper pine forests thrive. This forest community is especially attractive due to its great wealth of orchids. The orchids are protected and must not be picked. The best-known species is the lady's slipper orchid, which blooms in early summer.

At the destination Versam Safien station, sandstone walls up to 300 meters high rise up; the monumental highlight of the canyon.

Hidden Gem

Refreshment options are available at Valendas station as well as at Versam station. There are also nice fire pits along the way.

Safety Note

In uncertain weather conditions, the route should not be started. Weather changes in the mountains are common. If a rain front or similar approaches during the hike, you should turn back in time.

Please obey trail closures, e.g. during high water.

Equipment

Good hiking shoes with good grips, weather-appropriate clothing (rain jacket/sun protection), drink, food, first aid kit, possibly hiking poles.

Directions

Ilanz (station) - Castrisch - Valendas-Sagogn station - Versam-Safien station

Directions

Public Transport

From Chur, Ilanz station is easily accessible by a scenic journey through the Rheinschlucht. The hike can be shortened at any time using the Rhaetian Railway. You can find the exact connections on the SBB website.

Travel Information

Ilanz is accessible via Main Road 19 from both Chur and Disentis/Mustér.

Parking

There is a paid parking lot directly at the Ilanz station. Additional paid parking is available near the station.

There is another smaller parking lot at Castrisch station (also paid).

Waypoints

Tourist Information Center Surselva

Surselva Tourism, Ilanz

The guest information desk is located at the RhB counter directly in the station building. The staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have about Ilanz and the surrounding area. Various documents about the region are available to take away.

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Canyon Surselva

Rhine gorge

The Ruinaulta in Graubünden is one of the most magnificent and diverse landscapes in the Alps. The natural monument with a raging river, white cliffs and vast forests is also known as the Grand Canyon of Switzerland.

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Train Station Surselva

Station Castrisch

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Fireplace Surselva

Isla Sut fireplace, Castrisch

An adventurous fireplace that is suitable for families.

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Coffee Shop Surselva

Café Zwischenstation und Handwerk

Cosy little pub in the Valendas - Sagogn station building.

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Coffee Shop Surselva

Cafe zur Einkehr

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Grillplatz mit Steinbänkli rundherum auf einem Kiesplatz.

Fireplace Surselva

Isla fireplace, Carrera

Beautiful picnic and barbecue area slightly elevated on the edge of the forest with a view of the Rhine.

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Fireplace Surselva

Fireplace: “Black Hole”, Rhine Gorge

The fireplace not far from Valendas-Sagogn railroad station is located on the banks of the Rhine and nestled in the shade of trees.

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