372 Tschappiner-Rundweg

In the 17th century the French Duc de Rohan described the Heinzenberg as «the most beautiful mountain in the world». In actual fact, the Heinzenberg, which stands above Thusis, is much more than just a mountain: gentle slopes, charming hedgerows, secluded mountain huts and incredible views over the Burgenland Domleschg all await winter hikers who venture this way.

The Tschappinerrunde begins in Obergmeind. With the nearest mountain to the town, Piz Beverin, behind you, the winter trail leads downwards to Obertschappina, part of the village of Tschappina. The scattered neighbourhood at the foot of Piz Beverin is the starting point for the bridle path over the Glaspass into the isolated Safiental. Until the construction of a road in the late 19th century, this historic path was the most important route northwards for the valley-dwellers. Undulating gently, it leads via Oberurmein to the natural ice field of the Patrutgsee. This lies directly on the edge of the forest, with wonderful views into the distant Albulatal. In winter the lake serves as the venue for a traditional pastime: curling. It’s always worth stopping here before making your way back to Obergmeind.