Walserweg, Stage 18/19

A steep ascent leads up the Schlappintobel and through the forest into the Saas Alpine region. On the Rätschenjoch, sweeping views open up to the north and south. Scattered settlements are reminders that the Walser people cultivated inhospitable and remote areas in the late Middle Ages.

The long crossing into the St. Antönien valley begins at the Klosters Dorf bus stop. At first, a broad hiking trail leads out of the village, before the mountain path quickly gains height through forest and across open slopes. After around four kilometres, the route reaches the shore of the Schlappinsee; the settlement of Schlappin follows shortly afterwards.

Beyond Schlappin, a long, demanding ascent defines the day. The pastures increasingly give way to rocky terrain as the white-red-white waymarked path climbs into the high mountains. Shortly before the Rätschenjoch, the route reaches its highest point at around 2'600 m. With an ascent of around 1'600 metres and a distance of 21 kilometres, this stage calls for stamina and sure-footedness.

Beyond the pass, the long descent begins. The mountain path leads out of the rocky terrain and back onto open pastures, then continues to the scattered settlements above St. Antönien. Via Rüti, the route finally descends into the village. After around eight hours, the hike ends near the St. Antönien, Platz bus stop.