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Parc Ela
Parc Ela
Switzerland’s largest nature park under development
In the heart of Graubünden in the landscape of the Albula, Julier and Septimer Passes, Switzerland’s largest nature park is under development. Parc Ela attracts visitors with its unspoilt nature and landscape, together with a rich cultural heritage which bears witness to thousands of years of trade and exchange between the north and the south.
The landscape and culture in Parc Ela are characterized by thousands of years of trading across the passes. The stately houses give you an idea of the former prosperity of the waggoners and confectioners. There are ten villages of national significance, numerous churches, including the former monastery church in Mistail dating from the 8th century, and castles just waiting to be discovered. But Parc Ela is no museum. There are 6,000 people living and working here, with a cultural diversity which is also shown by the languages spoken here: Romansh, Italian and German.
Three moorlands of national significance, dry meadows covered with flowers, alpine tundra: in Parc Ela, you can see the diversity of nature in an area spanning more than 600 km2. A quarter of this area is protected as a special habitat. 21 municipalities in the valley communities of Albula and Surses are working together to develop the nature park and help conserve the nature and landscape, boost the economy and make guests and locals aware of environmental issues.
Savognin, the capital of the Surses valley, extends along both sides of the river Julia and is connected by a romantic medieval bridge. The village is characterized by three imposing churches. The famous painter Giovanni Segantini (in Surses from 1886-1894) noticed the unique natural beauty of this valley. The pleasant climate with a strong southern influence is characterized by its relative dryness and many sunny days.
Hikes
1,080 kilometres of well-marked hiking trails guide hikers through gorges and along ridges, across meadows and through sparse, stony landscapes through Parc Ela. We recommend Alp Flix – a treasure island of biodiversity, and the Exploratour – a hike from the continent to the ocean. You can find these hiking tips in the additional links in the right-hand column.
Would you prefer a guided tour?
In addition to themed trails, Parc Ela also offers a wide range of guided excursions. You can also find a list of offers in the additional links in the right-hand column.
Reach for the sky – Senda Ferrada via ferrata
Are you looking for a great challenge? Experience the fascination of climbing and vertical movement. You are guaranteed an adrenaline boost on the steep faces of the Piz Mitgel (3,159 m). A total of 1,320 metres in altitude, 220 steps, 1 km wire rope, one overhang and two narrow ridge hikes must be overcome in order to reach the peak via the Senda Ferrada via ferrata. The spectacular via ferrata combines the experience of a sporty via ferrata with a vertical wall and the ascent of a three-thousand-metre mountain with stunning views.
