ViaSpluga, Stage 1/4

Hiking path through the dramatic Viamala-Schlucht (gorge) and Schams with numerous cultural monuments (e.g. church in Zillis) and traffic constructions (Traversiner suspension bridge and Punt da Suransuns, Wildener bridges, Rania bridge). Relaxation in the Andeer spa.

From Thusis railway station, the hike initially leads to Sils im Domleschg. In the village, the trail passes the Reformed church before climbing past Ehrenfels Castle into the forest. A mountain trail marked in white-red-white soon takes over. It runs for long stretches along wooded slopes and, with around 1,000 metres of ascent in total, requires stamina. A viewpoint opens up a vista into the Viamala Gorge.

Just over halfway, the route reaches Reischen and Zillis. Here, it is worth stopping at the Romanesque Church of St Martin, whose painted ceiling is considered a cultural asset of national importance. The route briefly follows the Ual da Suden before continuing across open meadows and through the small villages of Donat and Casti. Between Casti and Clugin, it reaches its highest point at around 1,100 m. The mountain trail then descends through forest and open terrain to Andeer. After around 18 kilometres and just under six hours, the hike ends near the Andeer, posta bus stop.