Winter Hiking in Samedan

This circular hike, which largely follows the course of the Beverin and Inn rivers, starts at the symbolic zero kilometre stone by the Protestant village church. The trail climbs gently through the historic village centre and opens up views of the Upper Engadin mountains shortly after the schoolhouse. The culmination point is soon reached at the Muntarütsch shooting range and the trail descends through the larch forests towards Bever. From Bever, the hike follows the Beverin and Inn back to the village centre of Samedan.

This hike over sun-drenched southern slopes and along Upper Engadine watercourses also begins at the zero kilometre marker at the Protestant village church. Past the church of San Peter and the valley station of the Survih children's ski lift, you reach the Cristolais Nature Friends Hut. Enjoy the everlasting view of Muottas Muragl and the Bernina massif as you make your way down to Celerina. The path leads straight through Celerina towards the church of San Gian with its striking roofless church tower. Shortly before the church, the path turns left, takes you over the Ochsenbrücke and finally along the Innauen back to the Samedner village centre.

You can go on a “meaningful” winter hike in the truest sense of the word on the Philosopher’s Trail, which offers you fascinating views over and into the Engadin high valley as well as insights into the thoughts of famous thinkers. Aphorisms and words of wisdom from Friedrich Nietzsche, Thomas Mann, Hermann Hesse, Albert Einstein and other wise minds are displayed on boards along the trail and invite you to reflect. The numerous benches also act as a gentle invitation to linger and reflect. Incidentally, it is not quite correct to speak of “the” Philosopher’s Trail, as there are three variants, lengths and levels of difficulty: an easy (blue) strolling circuit, the slightly longer (red) version for more experienced winter hikers and a fairly challenging (black) two-hour circular walk to Lej Muragl. Fancy a snack or a hot chocolate at the beginning or after this winter magic? Our tip: Enjoy your culinary break on the wonderful sun terrace of the Romantik Hotel and let your thoughts wander once again.