Tag Archives: Swiss Walks

Walks: Vicosoprano In Southeast Switzerland

AKSense – Zurich – Vicosoprano village – the old capital of the Val Bregaglia valley in Graubunden region of Switzerland. This beautiful valley is framed by glaciated mountain ridges and opens up towards the south and Italy. The peaceful valley landscape surrounding this medieval village is in contrast to its eventful past.

The “Pretorio”, the old town hall and main courthouse, in the village was built in 1583. From the old town hall rises the round, medieval “Senvelen” Tower. The sight of the torture chamber and torture devices send chills down one’s spine. During the 17th century, many alleged witches were caught and held here and more than a few ended up on the gallows. Walking through this area, one comes to an arched bridge from which there is a magnificent view of the stunning mountains on both sides of the valley.

This medieval village is situated far from city life. It can only be reached by an hour long bus ride from St. Moritz train station or by car. The Maloja and Septimer passes link the Graubunden Val Bregaglia valley with the rest of Switzerland. Fragrant chestnut groves and the stone buildings of the Bergell villages lend the valley a Mediterranean ambiance.

Alpine Walks: St. Moritz In Southern Switzerland

Saint Moritz, a town, or Gemeinde (commune),  Graubünden canton, southeastern Switzerland. Saint Moritz lies in the Oberengadin (Upper Inn Valley) and is surrounded by magnificent Alpine peaks. The town consists of the Dorf (village), the Bad (spa), and the hamlets of Suvretta and Champfèr. Originally known for its curative mineral springs, it became a fashionable spa and summer resort in the 17th century. Since the late 19th century, it has developed as one of the world’s most famous winter-sport centres and was the scene of the Winter Olympic Games in 1928 and 1948. The resort is on an international highway, is linked by rail with international lines, and has an airport at Samedan, just northeast. Saint Moritz depends on tourism and the hotel industry. 

Village Walks: Zermatt In Southern Switzerland

Zermatt, in southern Switzerland’s Valais canton, is a mountain resort renowned for skiing, climbing and hiking. The town, at an elevation of around 1,600m, lies below the iconic, pyramid-shaped Matterhorn peak. Its main street, Bahnhofstrasse is lined with boutique shops, hotels and restaurants, and also has a lively après-ski scene. There are public outdoor rinks for ice-skating and curling. 

Walking Tour: St. Gallen In Northeast Switzerland

St. Gallen is a city south of Lake Constance (Bodensee), in northeastern Switzerland. It’s home to the Abbey of St. Gall, a monastery of various architectural styles including baroque. The complex includes a library with a rich collection of ancient books, and a twin-towered cathedral. Nearby, the Textile Museum details this important local trade. Many buildings in the old town have decorative bay windows.