Eastern Switzerland and Graubünden is a beautiful region in Switzerland that is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Eastern Switzerland includes the cantons of St. Gallen, Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Appenzell Innerrhoden, Thurgau, and parts of the cantons of Graubünden and Zurich. Graubünden, on the other hand, is a canton in eastern Switzerland, located in the heart of the Swiss Alps.It is the heart of the Alps and the source of the Rhine.In this blog post we will talk about 5 places to visit in Eastern Switzerland.
The region is home to breathtaking natural scenery, including the majestic Swiss Alps, sparkling lakes, and lush valleys. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and cycling, as well as cultural experiences, such as visiting charming medieval towns, attending local festivals, and exploring world-renowned museums.
In addition to its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Eastern Switzerland and Graubünden is also renowned for their culinary delights, including hearty traditional dishes, delicious cheeses, and fine wines. Whether you’re seeking an adventure in the great outdoors or a relaxing holiday immersed in culture and history, Eastern Switzerland and Graubünden is the perfect destination for your next vacation.
Here are five places to visit in this region.
Schaffhausen
Schaffhausen is a small city in northern Switzerland, located on the banks of the Rhine River. It is the capital of the canton of Schaffhausen and has a population of approximately 36,000 people. The city was first mentioned in documents dating back to the 11th century.
The city is known for its medieval architecture, particularly its picturesque old town, which is filled with narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and brightly painted facades.
Schaffhausen is also home to one of the largest waterfalls in Europe, the Rhine Falls. The falls are 490 feet wide and 75 feet high and are a popular tourist attraction.
The Munot Fortress, a circular 16th-century fortress located on a hill above the city, is another popular tourist attraction. Visitors can climb to the top of the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
The city hosts several annual festivals and events, including the Schaffhauser Jazz Festival, the Munotstiege Wine Festival, and the Christmas Market in the old town.
St. Gallen
St Gallen is even older than Schaffhausen, with its origins dating back to 612, when an Irish Monk named Gallus established his homestead there. Approximately 120 years later, a Benedictine Monastery was established on the site. The monastery library contains over 170,000 books, many of which are over 1,000 years old and handwritten.
Less than 15 miles from St. Gallen is Säntis – the Weather Mountain. Standing at over 8,200 feet, from this mountain, you can see six countries. this is a popular hiking area.
Chur
Chur is the capitol of the Graubünden canton. It is pronounced like “door”, except with a “k” instead of a “d”. It is located in the Rhine Valley, at the intersection of several important Alpine passes.
The city is known for its well-preserved Old Town, which is home to many historic buildings, including the Episcopal Palace, the St. Martin’s Church, and the Raetian Museum. Chur is also a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with several ski resorts located in the surrounding mountains.
In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Chur is also a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, a variety of shops and restaurants, and numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including a large folk festival in August. It is easily accessible by train and is a popular starting point for exploring the nearby Swiss Alps, with the Bernina Express panoramic train running from here to Italy.
Swiss National Park
The Swiss National Park was established in 1914, and covers 170 square kilometers. It is southeast of Chur and sits along the Austrian border.
Visitors here can find several hiking paths and can see several species of wildlife. The park is a protected area, and hikers are required to stay on the trails.
St. Moritz
St. Moritz is a luxury resort town located in the Engadin valley in the Swiss Alps. It is famous for its beautiful natural scenery, luxurious hotels, high-end shopping, and exclusive ski slopes. St. Moritz has a long history as a winter destination for the rich and famous, dating back to the late 19th century. The town has hosted the Winter Olympics twice, in 1928 and 1948, and is known for its glamorous events such as the St. Moritz Polo World Cup on Snow and the White Turf horse race on the frozen lake. In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy a range of winter sports and outdoor activities such as ice skating, snowboarding, and hiking. St. Moritz is also a popular destination in the summer, with visitors enjoying activities such as golfing, mountain biking, and sailing on the lake.
Getting There
Travel to Eastern Switzerland is very easy with both good roads and excellent rail service out of Zurich. Getting to places like the Swiss National Park is probably best done by car, or with a tour operator.
Conclusion
Switzerland is a breathtaking country that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a history buff, or just someone who loves to take in beautiful scenery, Switzerland’s Eastern and Graubünden areas should be at the top of your must-see list. This region is home to some of the most picturesque vistas and fascinating cultural sites in the country. From quaint mountain villages to soaring peaks, the landscape here is truly awe-inspiring. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this area by visiting ancient castles and museums, where you’ll step back in time and learn about the lives of the people who shaped this magnificent region. And don’t forget to indulge in some of the region’s culinary delicacies, like delicious cheese fondue and homemade chocolate. So, whether you’re planning a long trip or just a quick visit, make sure to add Switzerland’s Eastern and Graubünden regions to your itinerary.
