The Swiss Alps, Graubünden-Words are not enough!

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The Swiss Alps, Graubünden-Words are not enough! | Photo 17

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Graubünden has its own unique character. It is the largest Canton in Switzerland with Chur as its capital. Austria and Liechtenstein are on its North and Italy to the south. Like all regions in Switzerland, the architecture, language and cuisine are influenced by the French, Italian and German cultures. Swiss German, Romanish (its roots are from Latin) and Italian are spoken and alpine life embraces a wide variety of sports. Some of the most famous ski resorts are set in beautiful mountain towns spotted by cold green/blue glacier lakes and snow capped mountains. There are uniquely beautiful small villages in scenic regions such as the Engadin in the southeast of Switzerland. Pontresina, Celerina, Zuoz, Zernez and Scuol are sometimes over shadowed by the world famous St Moritz. So are the Maloja Pass region, Val Bregaglia, Val Poschiavo and Val Bernina. The influences of the Italian culture can be seen in well-preserved buildings with graffico, and terra cotta stone houses that line the narrow hamlets streets. Every now and then you’ll see crumbing castles perched atop steep cliffs. Romanish is spoken in some parts of this area and here you have stepped into centuries past where peaceful farms go on as if the world hasn’t caught with them yet. This is unlike Klosters, Arosa and Davos where the German culture influence is visible in food, language and architecture-but this is what makes Graubünden special.

It is packed with a variety of winter sports events and activities. Villages of Graubünden make this, together with the Valais the most varied ski region in Switzerland.  It is not just for the skiers and snow boarders however. Winter events are for everyone and you don’t have to ski to enjoy them. The Spengler Cup ice hockey competition in December, the Gourmet Food Festival or Snow Polo in Klosters, and McNeil snowboard competition in Davos are held in January. There is the White Turf horse race event in St. Moritz, the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Arosa in February. The World Cup downhill ski races, cross country ski competitions, bobsled and skeleton races in the only natural ice canal attract people from all over the world throughout the winter. Many events are open to the public with either small entrance fees or free. There are also the Hotel operated exclusive VIP tents, catering to the rich and famous. Furs, Champagne and Caviar are part of the scene, fully fitting the luxury reputation of the resorts. Sleigh rides, ice-skating, parasailing, snowshoe trekking, long sled runs and dog sled racing also offer fun for those who do not ski.

Venison with spatzlie or rosti, fondue and racelette, Italian and Bunden specialties are served in restaurants with cozy pine wood interiors. Stone fireplaces add warmth and antlers and cowbells decorate the walls. Snow floating through the air can be seen through the small windows providing the atmosphere for discussions about events of the day.

Nature healing in the famous wellness hotels and thermal waters are known around the world for their healing properties for the soul, body and mind. Here you can be pampered and get away from the stress of the world.

Switzerland is known as the country of trains and you can reach most villages by train. Winter or summer, skiing or trekking in The Swiss National Park or in the mountains-Graubünden is a vacation option for those not looking for just a vacation, but for the beauty and peace of mountain life.  As I have said, words are not enough!