Prättigauer Höhenweg, Stage 1/4

From the "Garden of Graubünden" around Malans, the route climbs steeply up the Vilan's forested slopes. Above the tree line on the steep southern slope, the view stretches far across the marvellous Prättigau. Beautiful forests, trails carved into the rock, rare alpine flora and bare rock enrich the ascent to the Schesaplana hut.

From Landquart railway station, the route initially passes through the settlement and briefly follows the Müllbach. The long ascent begins beyond Malans. The broad hiking trail soon becomes a mountain path, leading through the forest to Fadärastein and onwards towards Seewis Dorf. This marks only the opening section of this demanding day hike.

Above Seewis, open meadows and pastures characterise the route. Continuing to gain altitude through a steady succession of ascents and descents, the mountain path reaches Alp Stürvis. From there, the surroundings become increasingly secluded. Sections of forest alternate with open terrain as the final long ascent leads to the Schesaplanahütte.

After around 28 kilometres and approximately nine and a half hours, the hike ends at the SAC hut at just over 1,900 metres, which is also the highest point of the route. The total ascent amounts to around 2,100 metres. The destination is not served by public transport; the nearest stop, Eggli near Fanas, is around five kilometres away.