> Take in the stunning views at the Austrian-Swiss border
> Sleep in cozy huts like Carschinahütte and Schesaplanahütte
> Enjoy the scenic Seilbahn Fanas cable car
Looking for a gentle yet rewarding introduction to Swiss hiking? The Prättigauer Höhenweg is perfect for beginners who want mountain views without the crowds. Starting in Klosters and ending at the Fanas cable car, this route follows wide trails through wildflower-filled meadows, remote plateaus, and panoramic limestone ridgelines.
Each day you’ll explore a new part of the Rätikon range, with enough time to take it all in. Along the way, stay in classic alpine accommodations and soak up the quiet beauty of Graubünden. This is Switzerland at its most peaceful, an off-the-beaten-path adventure with a soft landing each night.
Today's stage starts in Klosters and plunges you straight into the natural beauty of the Graubünden region. To begin your trek, take the Madrisabahn cable car, a smooth ride that lifts you right into alpine territory. From the top station, the route starts with a steady climb through alpine pastures and woodlands, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks. You will reach several panoramic viewpoints along the way, offering perfect opportunities to rest or take photos of the Graubünden mountains.
The route then continues along grassy ridges beneath summits such as the Jagglisch Horn (2,290 m) and the Nolla (2,370 m), before descending gently to the tranquil village of St. Antönien. You will pass through the Ascharina Alp, where you can hire a trottinette for a fun-filled final stretch. With its moderate elevation changes and well-maintained paths, this stage offers a gentle yet rewarding introduction to the Prättigauer Höhenweg.
The trail begins in the peaceful village of St. Antönien and winds steadily upwards through increasingly wild and alpine terrain. The trail winds its way up through pastures and wooded slopes, eventually offering expansive vistas of the Rätikon mountain range. As you climb higher, keep an eye out for grazing cows and marmots.
Once you are above the tree line, the scenery becomes truly dramatic. The trail passes the 2,412-metre-high Chüenihorn and the beautiful Carschinasee, a small alpine lake nestled beneath towering limestone peaks. Your destination, the Carschina Hütte, is just above. This cosy, remote hut is perfectly positioned for sunset views of the Schesaplana and Sulzfluh peaks. It's a fitting end to a memorable stage!
Today's stage is stunning! Starting from the Carschinahütte hut, the trail heads west along the northern slopes of the Rätikon mountain range. As you make your way through an impressive mountain amphitheatre, the imposing limestone walls of the Sulzfluh loom above you. The views are spectacular throughout the day, especially as you pass through the natural gateway of Schweizer Tor, which marks the border between Switzerland and Austria.
Beyond the pass, the landscape opens up to reveal the Lunerseetal valley and the impressive Scesaplana massif. The final section involves ascending and descending through alpine pastures and scree before a gentle descent to the Schesaplana Hut, where you will spend the night. It's time to relax, enjoy the sunset, and perhaps raise a toast to the day. You've earned it!
Today is all about taking in the last of the views. From Schesaplanahütte, the trail begins with a steady descent through alpine terrain, winding past meadows and rugged limestone outcrops. The route is varied and scenic, with highlights like the panoramic views over the Prättigau valley and the occasional glimpse of the Rätikon peaks behind you.
Halfway along the Vordersäss Vals Alp, there is a short climb before the path levels out again. Towards the end, there is one last climb, a steep ascent on the western slope along the Grappalazär trail. You are likely to encounter mountain bikes here. There’s still one last thrill before getting to Fanas: the descent to the valley floor via the Seilbahn Fanas cable car. It’s a smooth ride with a fantastic aerial view, the perfect finale to your journey!
