ViaSuworow, Stage 11/11

There are plenty of pretty churches and chapels to be admired on the way from Pigniu to the bottom of the valley of the Vorderrhein river. Ilanz, the first town by the Rhine where the weakened Russian troops arrived on 7 October 1799, is where today’s ViaSuworow ends.

From the Pigniu, vitg bus stop, the hike initially climbs out of the village. The mountain trail, marked in white, red and white, leads through woodland and across open slopes to the highest point near Crap Gries. At around 1'500 m, the main ascent has already been completed; from there, the route is characterised by a long descent.

The trail descends through woodland and across pastures to Rueun. The mountain path continues to require care, even though elevation is now lost rapidly. Beyond Rueun, wooded sections alternate with open farmland. In Schnaus, the route passes directly by the Reformed church; the Stiva Veglia restaurant also lies along the way.

Approaching Ilanz, the trail becomes easier. Shortly before reaching the valley floor, it passes the Ruina de Carniec, situated slightly above the town. Roads and houses then signal the approach to the destination. After around twelve kilometres and just over three and a half hours, the hike ends at Ilanz railway station.