Graubunden (Summer)

Graubunden is Switzerland’s largest canton, and is home to some of the most rugged mountains in Europe. Today it’s an easy two-hour train ride from Zurich, but in the past it was isolated, and developed its own distinctive culture, architecture, cuisine, and even its own language, Rhaeto-Romansch, spoken in a few remote valleys. The Alpine resorts of St. Moritz, Pontresina, Davos/Klosters, Lenzerheide and family-friendly Arosa are the gateways to a wonderland of hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, hang gliding, rafting and rock climbing. Visit the vineyards of Malans/Maienfeld, the thermal baths at Bad Ragaz or the Swiss National Park ...

Graubunden is Switzerland’s largest canton, and is home to some of the most rugged mountains in Europe. Today it’s an easy two-hour train ride from Zurich, but in the past it was isolated, and developed its own distinctive culture, architecture, cuisine, and even its own language, Rhaeto-Romansch, spoken in a few remote valleys. The Alpine resorts of St. Moritz, Pontresina, Davos/Klosters, Lenzerheide and family-friendly Arosa are the gateways to a wonderland of hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, hang gliding, rafting and rock climbing. Visit the vineyards of Malans/Maienfeld, the thermal baths at Bad Ragaz or the Swiss National Park in the Engadin. Chur, the largest city, is the transport hub of the region, and is worth a visit for its lovely old town. The spectacular views are best enjoyed aboard the famous Rhaetian Railway that connects the region. For rainy days, there are the Kirchner Museum in Davos and the Segantini Museum in St. Moritz. In the evening, enjoy local specialties such as maluns and capuns with a local red wine or röteli liqueur.

About the Expert

Charlie Morris is the author of the Open Road guidebooks Best of Honduras, Best of Costa Rica, Best of Belize, and Switzerland Guide.