Jakobsweg Graubünden, Stage 5/19

The hike leads from the car-free Schellen-Ursli village of Guarda to the gateway to the Swiss National Park at Zernez. The trail runs south along the Inn River across the valley floor and over wooded slopes. Ornate churches, beautiful wooden bridges, mossy rocks, and icy caves tell of the history of the Lower Engadine.

From the Guarda, cumün stop, the route leads through the village and past the Reformed church. At around 1,650 m, the highest point of the hike comes right at the start. The mountain trail, marked in white-red-white, then descends into the valley, crossing open meadows and stretches of woodland. Lavin is reached after the first extended descent.

Between Lavin and Susch, the route continues in a steady succession of ascents and descents. Woodland alternates with open slopes, while the settlements in between give the long route a clear rhythm. In Susch, the hike passes the heritage-listed church of San Jon; a place to stop for refreshments also lies directly on the route.

East of Susch, the trail climbs once more and leads predominantly through woodland. Close to the route lies Fuorcha, the former execution site of several Lower Engadine municipalities. Towards the end, the trail descends to Zernez. After around 16 kilometres and a good four and a half hours, the hike ends not far from the railway station.