In addition to the bathing tips in a previous newsletter, this newsletter introduces you to three excursions to escape the heatwave this summer: Rather than cool water, we are taking you to higher ground today, where luckily there is always a cool breeze blowing:

Wild, pristine and accessible - the Calanca Valley

In the small village of Augio, only 30 minutes' drive from Bellinzona, awaits an oasis of peace and serenity. The idyllic waterfall Cascata del Frott splashes behind the hotel La Cascata, as the name suggests. Enjoy a wonderful view from the hotel terrace.
 
Book now This little hotel has 10 cosy rooms, including single rooms. Depending on the season, regional delicacies such as mushrooms, venison, trout, alpine cheese or homemade ice cream are served in the Cascata restaurant.

The loveliest lake in the Grisons

At the heart of the Calanca Valley lies the Lagh de Calvaresc. At normal water levels, this alpine lake looks like a heart and makes a great photo location. The little lake is located on the famous Sentiero Calanca, but can also be reached by foot from Rossa in roughly 4 hours.
  © Thomas Vielgut

Exploring Switzerland's largest national park

While the 3-star Hotel Solaria on the Julier Pass may appear rather ordinary at first glance, it is behind the walls that you can expect the warmest hospitality. The hotel has its own restaurant with fine wood-baked pizzas, the La Trapla Bar for a nightcap, a wonderful sundeck, a bowling lane, a small sauna for relaxation and even its own stables for horses. 
 


There are four room types available, from single rooms to family rooms. We can highly recommend the Signature rooms: The rooms have been refurbished in Alpine style, offer a stunning view of the mountains and feature stylish old oak wood that sets them apart from the standard rooms.
 
Book now A gateway to heaven in the Val d'Agnel

A special hotel comes with a special excursion tip: Ever heard of Parc Ela's Gate of Heaven? This special rock formation resembles the Arches National Park in the USA.

 The hike of approx. 4.5 hours starts at the Julier hospice "La Veduta", which can easily be reached by postal bus. Thence you follow narrow hiking paths up to the highest point Fuorcla digl Leget. The rock gate is located about 200 metres northeast of Fuorcla digl Leget, at an altitude of 2,640 metres above sea level. Steadiness is required, but the effort is worth it!
  © lorenzfischer.photo

Welcome to the Valley of the 4'000m

No less than 18 mountain summits adorn the beautiful Saas Valley!  Nestled in the midst of them lies the next hotel jewel: Hotel Olympia in Saas-Almagell. The original themed rooms (double room deluxe), the Jock's restaurant serving Scottish specialities, the cosy wellness area and warm hospitality are what give this 3-star hotel its very special charm. This is a home away from home! 
 

Double room Deluxe: The image displayed is an example, each room was designed individually. Book now Almagell altitude trail

The Hohsaas cable car will take you to the starting point of the hike. Leaving the idyllic Kreuzbodensee lake with its colourful alpine flower promenade, the route takes you through the romantic Almagellertal valley to Almagelleralp - the Almagelleralp high-altitude trail is almost unbeatable in terms of variety. You can either take the adventurous descent to Saas-Almagell via the Chüelbrunnji and the Spissgrabe or enjoy a more casual walk along the adventure trail to Furggstalden and then take the chairlift.
  Kreuzbodensee © Saastal Tourismus AG, Stefan Kuerzi