The 20 most beautiful nature parks in Switzerland

Nature is a precious commodity. Apart from the world-famous Swiss chocolate and the versatile Swiss army knife, it is an important trademark of Switzerland.

Who doesn't think of snow-covered mountains, green meadows with grazing cows, or sparkling mountain lakes when he - or she - dreams of the small confederation in the Alps?

Some of these typical Swiss landscapes are part of a support program launched by the federal government in 2007. Within the framework of this program, financial support is currently flowing to a total of 19 parks of national importance. A distinction is made between three categories: National parks, regional nature parks and nature discovery parks.

Thus, parks are supported throughout Switzerland that are characterized by "beautiful landscapes, rich biodiversity and high-quality cultural assets". Regions, cantons and municipalities can apply to the federal government for this label and, if the required criteria are met, may benefit from financial support for their nature park.

If you are interested in starting your own nature park in Switzerland, you can find the requirements here.

However, if you are more interested in an overview of the already existing parks, you can find it here.

All nature parks in Switzerland

We have compiled here all 20 nature parks of national importance in Switzerland. They are listed according to location, size and population.

name of nature park	location	canton	area (km²)	inhabitants	communities
Regional Nature Park Schaffhausen	North of the Rhine and west of Lake Constance	Schaffhausen	213	28,600	15
Wilderness Park Zurich	On the northwestern part of Lake Zurich, S-Bahn connection	Zurich	11	80	5
Jurapark Aargau	Rural Jura landscape between Basel and Zurich	Aargau, Solothurn	241	42'000	28
Naturpark Thal	South of Basel and north of the Aare	Solothurn	139	15`000	8
Parc du Doubs	Jura Mountains, along the Doubs River	Jura, Neuchâtel, Bern	11	80	5
Parc Regional Chasseral	Jura Mountains, northwest of Lake Biel	Bern, Neuchâtel	474	51`000	23
Nature Park Jura Vaudois	North of Lake Geneva	Waadt	568	39’700	34
UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch	West of Lucerne and Mount Pilatus	Lucerne	395	17,700	7
Nature Park Gantrisch	South of Bern and northwest of Thun	Bern, Fribourg	404	37'400	19
Regional Park Gruyere	Lake Geneva (Montreux) to Gruyère and Saanenland (Gstaad)	Fribourg, Vaud	503	14'700	13
Nature Park Jorat	Cohesive forest area of the Swiss Plateau	Vaud	9	20	1
Nature Park Diemtigtal	Southwest of Lake Thun to Mount Gsür	Bern	136	2400	2
Nature Park Pfyn-Finges	Central Valais,south of Leukerbad, between Gampel and Sierre	Wallis	277	11,000	12
Landscape Park Binntal	East of the Breithorn to the Italian border	Wallis	181	1200	5
Parco Val Calanca	in the Italian-speaking part	Graubünden	120	400	4
Naturpark Beverin	Four valleys (including the Rhine Gorge) around the Piz Beverin	Graubünden	515	3700	9
Park Ela	Between Albula, Bergün and	Graubünden	548	5200	6
Swiss National Park	Engadine	Graubünden	170	-	-
Biosphere Val Müstair	beyond the Ofen Pass	Graubünden	199	1400	1
Nature Park Trient Valley (from 2024)	Between the peaks of the Arpille and the Cime del'Est	Wallis		7

Regional Nature Park Schaffhausen

The Schaffhausen Regional Nature Park celebrated its entry into the federal funding program in 2018. Two of its municipalities lie across the Swiss-German border.

How to reach the regional nature park Schaffhausen

All communities located in the regional nature park Schaffhausen can be reached by public transport. Be it by bus, train or boat. By car, it is best to drive via Schaffhausen and then make your way to your destination.

Wilderness Park Zurich with Sihlwald and Langenberg

The Wildnispark Zürich is the smallest Swiss nature park. It includes Sihlwald as well as Langenberg. It is the first nationally recognized nature experience park. It has been part of the federal government's funding program since 2010.

How to reach the Zurich Wilderness Park

Both parks are easily accessible by public transport from Zurich, Thalwil and Horgen. It is also possible to get there by car, although the parking fees are a flat rate of CHF 10 per day for the zoo and CHF 5 for the wilderness park.

Jurapark Aargau

Since 2012, the Jurapark Aargau has borne its nature park title. It extends in the north to the German border, which is formed by the Rhine. On the eastern and southern edge, the park is bordered by the Aare River.

How to get to Jurapark Aargau

All the communities of Jurapark Aargau can be reached either by car, by bicycle - for example on the Route Verte - or by public transport from Aarau, Brugg, Zurich or Basel.

Jurapark Aargau is also ideally located for travel by car and can be easily reached via the freeway from Aarau, Brugg, Zurich, Basel and Bern.

Thal Nature Park

Another old hand in the business is the Thal Nature Park, which has been one of the Swiss nature parks since 2010. It extends in the canton of Solothurn. With its location in the triangle between Bern, Zurich and Basel, it is very easy to reach.

The Nature Park website offers a wealth of further information on experiences, accommodation, mountain restaurants, hikes, sports activities and events.

How to reach the Thal Nature Park

The Thal Nature Park is easily accessible by public transport from several directions. Be it by train via Oensingen and Balsthal, by cable car via Solothurn and Weissenstein or by post bus from the canton of Basel-Landschaft.

The park is also well accessible by car, as it has direct access to the A1 freeway via Oensingen and is not far from the Egerkingen freeway junction.

Parc du Doubs

If the Doubs has already found no place in the enumeration of water bodies in Switzerland, it is at least duly mentioned here. This river characterizes the northern part of the nature park and is responsible for its naming. At the same time, it forms the border to France north of the Jura mountains.

The Parc du Doubs accommodates a large portion of nature on its surface and no densely populated settlements.

But all the more horses.

_Swiss Activities Tip: Be prepared for cooler temperatures in the Franches-Montagnes than on the banks of the Doubs. Even on sunny days, appearances can be deceiving and having an extra layer of clothes up your sleeve is certainly not a bad idea

For more information, discoveries and suggestions for this area, visit the website of the Parc du Doubs.

How to reach the Parc du Doubs

You can reach the Parc du Doubs by public transport, but not as easily as, for example, the Jurapark Aargau. However, if you have a little more time, this is not a serious problem

The cities of La Chaux-de-Fonds, Le Locle and St-Ursanne are on the SBB network and various villages in the Franches-Montagnes can be reached by train. Buses and cable cars also provide access to the park

With your own car you are of course also in good hands here. In this case, it is best to travel via Biel or Neuchâtel via La Chaux-de-Fonds.

Parc régional Chasseral

Facts and figures about the Parc régional Chasseral

For the Chasseral Nature Park, we will stay in the Jura mountains for the time being. It was named after the Chasseral, the highest elevation in the Bernese Jura, which is also considered the viewing terrace of the Swiss Jura. It has held the title of regional nature park since 2012.

For more information on discovering the Chasseral Nature Park, with up-to-date details and offers, visit this website

How to reach the Parc régional Chasseral

If you are not on your way from Schaffhausen to Geneva by bike, you can also reach the Chasseral Nature Park by public transport. From Biel, La Chaux-de-Fonds and Neuchâtel you can reach the park in less than 20 minutes. You can either take the train, the bus or your own car.

Jura Vaudois Nature Park

The Jura Vaudois Nature Park has been part of the Swiss Nature Parks since 2013. It is the westernmost park in Switzerland and thus the last in our list to be located in the Jura mountains. Thanks to its proximity to the densely populated coast of Lake Geneva, it is a popular destination for the people of western Switzerland.

More suggestions and inspirations can be found on the website of the Jura Vaudois Nature Park. However, the site exists exclusively in French, although the many pictures fortunately speak a globally understandable language

How to reach the Jura Vaudois Nature Park

The park is very easy to reach from different starting points. Whether you start in Geneva, Nyon, Morges or Lausanne, public transport gives you easy access

Within the park there are several train and post bus lines, which makes a car practically unnecessary. Although you can of course also reach the park by choosing any access road from the direction of Lake Geneva.

UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch

Facts and figures about the Entlebuch Biosphere Reserve

There are around 700 biosphere reserves worldwide, with one of them located in the canton of Lucerne. The Entlebuch Biosphere is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and covers an area of 395 km². It extends over seven municipalities and is home to around 17,700 inhabitants

The Entlebuch has been a UNESCO Biosphere since 2001 and since 2008, when the federal program was launched, it has been one of Switzerland's regional nature parks.

What awaits you in the Entlebuch Biosphere

The Entlebuch Biosphere is characterized in particular by its many moorland landscapes. The "wild west of Lucerne", as the area is also called, consists of a quarter of moors of national importance. Nowhere in Switzerland will you find more moors than here

But also alpine meadows, wild mountain streams and the imposing Schrattenfluh are part of this nature park. It is not for nothing that the Entlebuch is considered a model and showcase region by UNESCO

Due to the wide range of leisure activities, the Entlebuch is a popular vacation region that offers something for almost every taste. If you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation, you will unfortunately be disappointed here. But otherwise you are sure to find something that suits your preferences.

The assortment of ways to pass the time in Entlebuch is immense and you will not find it difficult to occupy yourself here for a few days. Especially for families, the nature park offers a lot of options, which makes it a suitable destination for active family vacations.

You can find more information on topics such as accommodation, gastronomy, packages, events and much more on the website of the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch

How to reach the Biosphere Entlebuch

The nature park is easily accessible by public transport from various directions, whether by bus or train. Trains run regularly from Lucerne and Bern to the Entlebuch, and various post bus routes lead to the more remote villages. By the way, the Entlebuch belongs to the validity area of the Tellpass.

The biosphere is also easily accessible by car via Lucerne or Bern.

Gantrisch Nature Park

Facts and figures about the Gantrisch Nature Park

Things get much more mountainous in the Gantrisch Nature Park, which has been one of Switzerland's nature parks since 2012. Covering an area of 404 km², it extends over the territory of 19 municipalities and is home to around 37,400 inhabitants

The park was named after the Gantrisch chain, a mountain range in the Bernese Alps southwest of Thun. Unlike the parks in the Jura Mountains, the peaks here are considerably higher, at more than 2,000 meters above sea level

What awaits you in the Gantrisch Nature Park

The Gantrisch Nature Park advertises many features, one of which immediately catches the eye. Due to the low light pollution, you can experience clear starry nights in the park and hunt for shooting stars. So make a note of your most urgent wishes and go on a shooting star hunt.

Also during the day there is a lot to see and discover in the Gantrisch Nature Park. On the one hand, there are deep canyons and gorges through which the river "Schwarzwasser" meanders. On the other hand, you encounter vast moorlands, the striking Gantrisch chain and endless forests. The importance of the forest must be especially emphasized here

The Gantrisch Nature Park is home to one of the largest contiguous forest areas in Switzerland. In addition, four times more people work here in the agricultural and forestry sector than the Swiss average.

From a cultural-historical point of view there are some treasures to be found here. Spread over the park you will find castles, various baths in the Gurnigel area - which bear witness to the old bathing culture - but also the Schwarzenburg chapel, a part of the Jakobsweg with the Rüeggisberg monastery and various farmhouses built in the style typical of the region. In addition, the Gantrisch Nature Park has eight museums and three observatories

You remember the clear nights? That was no joke.😉

How to reach the Gantrisch Nature Park

The Gantrisch Nature Park is well served by public transport. On the one hand with the train from Bern or within the park with various post bus lines. In winter there is even a snow bus

If you arrive with your own car - no matter if you come from Bern, Thun or Fribourg - there are several parking lots available

Gruyère Regional Park

Facts and figures about Gruyère Regional Park

We are cheating a bit with this park. Its full name is "Parc naturel régional Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut". A tongue twister that I would like to spare you and me. Therefore, for the moment, we give it the pet name "Regional Park Gruyère"

It has been part of the inventory of Swiss nature parks since 2012 and covers an area of 503 km². Its territory includes 13 communes and about 14,700 inhabitants. It stretches from the shores of Lake Geneva in Montreux to the Gruyère region and the Saanenland region near Gstaad.

What awaits you in the Gruyère Regional Park

Well-known cheeses such as Gruyère, l'Etivaz and Fribourg Vacherin come from this region, so it is not surprising that there are several opportunities to follow in the footsteps of one of Switzerland's most important trademarks

Other features of the Gruyère Regional Park are deep valleys, lush alpine and mountain meadows, numerous wooded areas but also rock faces and steep scree slopes

The medieval town of Gruyères and the Cailler chocolate factory in Broc are located just outside the park. Just in case you get a craving for chocolate after a long hike, followed by a photo stop in Gruyères

How best to explore the Gruyère Regional Park

The park is a true hiker's paradise. By bike you are less well off here than in most other parks, although there are nevertheless isolated bike routes. So we suggest you put on your walking shoes and choose one of the many hikes.

• On the route Les Granges - Gérignoz - l'Etivaz you will find yourself in the largest nature reserve in western Switzerland. This five-hour hike will challenge your legs as you climb over 1,000 meters in altitude
• The cheese trail from Allières to Montbovon is a bit more leisurely. Yes, there are indeed cheese trails in the Gruyère Regional Park. Here you'll find more candidates
• This hike through the moorland at Col des Mosses leads past alpine huts, cow pastures and last but not least the enchanting mountain lake Lac Lioson
• For an excursion on a bike, there are two signposted routes from Schweizmobil. On the one hand there is the Alpine Panorama Route for cyclists and on the other hand the Panorama Bike Route for mountain bikers

More route suggestions and details about the Parc naturel régional Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut - seriously, who came up with that name? - can be found on this website

By the way, the Golden Pass Line, one of the five big panoramic trains, passes right through the Gruyère Regional Park on its way from Montreux to Lucerne. If you're not much of a hiker and more of a connoisseur, this would be a calorie-saving option to visit the park.

How to reach the Gruyère Regional Park

The Gruyère Regional Park is well connected by train and several post bus lines. Be it from Fribourg, Gstaad, Montreux or Bulle. If you like winding roads, you will also be happy here with your own car

However, there is no direct road from the heart of the park down to the southern part on Lake Geneva. For that you would have to take the highway from Bulle via Vevey to Montreux or the train through the mountains

Jorat Nature Park

Facts and figures about the Jorat Nature Park

Small but mighty takes on a whole new meaning in connection with the Jorat Nature Park. Strictly speaking, it is not a nature park, but only a nature park candidate. It has been on the list since 2016 because it would like to be a nature discovery park

Registered or not, no one is left out here. With a manageable 9 km², it is located in a single municipality and only 20 people live on its territory

What awaits you in the Jorat Nature Park

One thing above all awaits you in the Jorat Nature Park.

Forest.

At 40 km², the Jorat forests are the largest contiguous forest area in the Swiss midlands. Since it rains a lot here, the forest is considered a water reservoir that could temporarily guarantee the region's water supply in case of pollution of Lake Geneva.

In addition, the Jorat landscape provides a home for a variety of insects, amphibians, birds and mammals. Since the park is not far from the last metro station of the Lausanne Métro, it registers about one million walkers per year

So you see. Small, fine but very busy.

The best way to discover the Jorat Nature Park

The best way to discover the Jorat Nature Park is on foot along one of the numerous walking trails, paths and boardwalks. Cyclists pass the southern edge of the park on the Swiss mobile route from Lausanne to Payerne.

For more information on the project around the Jorat Nature Park and its goal of earning a place in the federal program, visit this French-language website

How to reach the Jorat Nature Park

With the Métro to Epalinges and a subsequent bus ride, the Jorat Nature Park is easily accessible from Lausanne.

Diemtigtal Nature Park

Facts and figures about the Diemtigtal Nature Park

On the other side of Gstaad, midway between the Gruyère Regional Park and Lake Thun, lies the remote Diemtigtal. With its 136 km², the nature park is rather one of the smaller ones of its kind. It has been part of the Swiss nature parks since 2012, is located on the territory of two municipalities and has about 2400 inhabitants

Somehow also small and fine - although not in the same style as the Jorat Nature Park. The 19 km long valley stretches from Oey-Diemtigen - which, by the way, is also on the route of the Golden Pass Line - to the Landvogtehore, a 2,616 meter high mountain peak at the end of the valley

What awaits you in the Diemtigtal Nature Park

With around 140 alpine farms that lead more than 10,000 cows, cattle, sheep and goats into the Diemtig Alps in summer, the Diemtigtal is one of the most important communities in the Swiss alpine economy. The concert of bells during the hikes and mountain bike tours is therefore pre-programmed.

What you can also look forward to are magnificent flower meadows, a wild mountain landscape, beautiful views wherever you look, ice-cold mountain streams, glittering mountain lakes and a diverse animal world. So keep your eyes open on your hikes for ibexes, chamois, marmots and other mountain creatures.

Particularly impressive are the many beautiful Diemtigtaler houses, which are decorated with elaborate carvings and paintings. By the way, these are connected in various themed trails that can be walked with the help of an app. But we'll get to that in a moment.

How to best explore the Diemtigtal Nature Park

The range of activities in the Diemtigtal Nature Park is very comprehensive. You can explore it on foot, by bike, on a mountain bike, on horseback or along one of the many themed trails

• Everything about hiking, including suggested routes to mountain lakes, peaks and the Alps, can be found on the hiking page of the Diemtigtal Nature Park.
• The three Diemtigtaler Hauswege lead you past the most beautiful houses and let you marvel again and again. Don't forget to install the app for it
• Thanks to various other theme trails you will never get bored here. Whether you are interested in birds, cultural history, churches or wild roses
• Bikers get their money's worth in the Bike Park Wierihorn and on the numerous biking routes. Put on your helmet and get into the fun.
• The scooter fun on the Wierihorn is something for small and adult children
• You can also enjoy the Diemtigtal Nature Park in the air or on horseback.

As you can see, the Diemtigtal offers something for everyone. No matter whether you are looking for peace and quiet and a few beautiful photos or for a proper adrenaline rush. You can find more information about the nature park on this website

How to reach the Diemtigtal Nature Park

The Diemtigtal is only accessible from one side. Unless you are on a hiking tour and arrive via one of the many mountains standing around. Otherwise you can travel by train to Oey-Diemtigen and change there to the post bus

If you are traveling by car, drive via Spiez in the direction of Zweisimmen and take the turnoff to Diemtigtal in Oey.

Pfyn-Finges Nature Park

Facts and figures about the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park

In the canton of Valais - which, along with Ticino, is one of the two southernmost cantons in Switzerland - there are two nature parks. One of them is the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park, which covers an area of 277 km² and 12 communes. It has been part of the inventory of Swiss nature parks since 2013 and is inhabited by around 11,000 people

The special feature of this park is that it is located on the language border between the German and French speaking parts of Switzerland. In addition, the differences in altitude within its territory are considerable, as the lowest point is at 500 and the highest at 4153 m.a.s.l. As you can see, this is a very contrasting area.

What awaits you in the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park

The variety of landscapes and habitats in the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park is impressive. On the one hand, glaciers, rocky steppes, some of the highest mountains in Switzerland and several alpine huts can be found in the park, while not far away are endless pine forests, stately castles, various floodplain areas and the fertile Rohnetal valley with its numerous vineyards.

The core of the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park consists of the Pfynwald protected area. This forest is one of the largest pine forests the Alps have to offer and is one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in Switzerland on 17 km². The park is also a paradise for ornithologists, as it is home to a large number of different bird species. Even eagles can be observed in the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park.

If you have a little sommelier slumbering inside you and would like to give it some exercise, you will get your money's worth here. Over 80 wine shops offer their regional products and wine tastings, most of which can be found in the wine village of Salgesch and on the wine island of Varen

How you can best explore the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park

With over 450 km of signposted hiking trails, there are more than enough options for exploring Pfyn-Finges Nature Park on foot. You can also make good progress by bike or mountain bike. If you don't have your own bike, you can rent one in Leuk or in Sierre.

The nature park website has numerous route suggestions, excursion ideas and themed trails posted. These include the following:

• The Wine Trail from Sierre to Salgesch takes 2-4 hours and leads through the heart of the Valais wine industry.
• On the Birdwatching Tour, which is about 15 km long, rare bird species such as the kingfisher can be observed with a bit of luck.
• A completely different landscape is revealed on the Lämmeren Glacier Trail, which leads through a floodplain landscape of national importance.
• Various biking routes meander through the park. Be it leisurely along the water or on hair-raising trails at higher elevations.
• The Soundwalk focuses on the fact that you can perceive the area not only with your eyes, but also with your ears.

For more information, inspiration, interesting facts and descriptions about the nature and landscape center in Sangelsch, visit the website of the nature park Pfyn-Finges.

How to reach the Pfyn-Finges Nature Park

Along the Rhone Valley, the nature park is accessible by fast and regional trains. Since the park is somewhat remote - of course, this is always a question of perspective - you have to allow about two hours for the journey from the larger Swiss cities such as Geneva, Zurich, Lucerne or Basel. From Bern, you can reach the park in a little more than an hour.

Within the park you will find various post bus lines and cable cars that will take you to your destination. By car, you can either reach the park via the Lake Geneva region via Montreux or by car transport through the Lötschberg tunnel, if you don't want to take the detour through western Switzerland.

Binntal Landscape Park

Facts and figures about the Binntal Landscape Park

The second nature park in the Valais is the Binntal Landscape Park. This comparatively small park is located on the border with Italy and covers an area of 181 km². Its territory extends over five municipalities and about 1200 inhabitants call it home.

This side valley of the Valais, which used to be used by smugglers as a route on their way to Italy, has held the title of a nature park since 2012.

What awaits you in the Binntal Landscape Park

No other Alpine region is as rich in minerals as Binntal and it is not for nothing that Binn is known as the "Mineraliendorf". So far, more than 300 different types of minerals have been found in this area, far beyond the well-known rock crystals. If you are interested in these fascinating gems, you can find more information here.

Otherwise, the Binntal Landscape Park presents itself at its best with its enchanting views, authentic villages, extensive wildlife, the unique Grengj wild tulip, sparkling mountain lakes and breathtaking mountain landscapes.

How to best explore the Binntal Landscape Park

The best way to get around the Binntal Landscape Park is on foot or by mountain bike. In addition, the Alpin bus runs during the summer months, transporting excursionists from Binn to Fäld and back to Binn after the hike

On one of the numerous signposted hiking trails you can reach every corner of the landscape park, whereby you also have the option for a guided tour or a theme trail. Here's a small selection of possible pastimes:

• On the Hike to Schaplersee you'll see the Swiss mountain landscape from its chocolate side.
• If you are interested in the history of the world-famous hotelier Caesar Ritz (Ritz-Carlton, ring a bell?), the theme trail "The Life of Caesar Ritz" offers a cultural excursion
• For those with a head for heights, the 92-meter suspension bridge Goms Bridge is an impressive experience
• Choose one of the more than 30 further hiking suggestions to discover the Binntal Landscape Park on foot.
• On one of the guided tours you will be shown the park by a professional. Most tours take place in winter as part of a ski tour
• Bicyclists and mountain bikers will find a selection of tours and routes here
• Of course, there are also several offers dealing with the Binntal minerals. These include guided hikes on the topic, grinding courses and mineral hunts or a visit to one of the two museums.

This list is by no means exhaustive, and you can find more ideas for all kinds of experiences in the Binntal Landscape Park on the park website

How to reach the Landscape Park Binntal

Getting to the Binntal Landscape Park is a bit of a hassle, but it's still easy to get there by public transport. From Brig or Göschenen, the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn takes you directly to the park. The suspension bridge is also accessible by train. In addition, there are regular buses and in summer the Bus Alpin within the Binntal.

By car you arrive in the same way as to the nature park Pfyn-Finges. Either via the Lake Geneva region via Montreux or by car transport through the Lötschberg tunnel

Parco Val Calanca

Facts and figures about Parco Val Calanca

Another nature park, which for the time being is only a candidate for the title and is waiting to be included in the federal inventory, is the Parco Val Calanca in the canton of Graubünden. It covers an area of 120 km² and extends over the territory of four municipalities. With only about 400 inhabitants, it is very sparsely populated.

The sunny valley is open towards the south and is protected in the north by mountains up to 3000 meters high. In addition, the park is home to a small mountain lake in the shape of a heart, which the organizers immediately incorporated into their logo

What to expect at Parco Val Calanca

Some of the features of the idyllic Parco Val Calanca are the traditional stone and wooden settlements, well-preserved mule tracks, a wild and unspoiled nature with a diverse wildlife, two very remote villages that can be reached only by cable car and a crystal clear river landscape in the bottom of the valley.

Parco Val Calanca is far from the transit traffic between the northern and southern Alps, which makes it a very quiet destination. For wildlife, the park offers an ideal habitat and if you keep your eyes open a bit, you may be lucky enough to see ibexes, deer, chamois and even golden eagles or black grouse

Water-wise, the park has a lot to offer. On the one hand there is the Calancasca River, but also several waterfalls and mountain lakes can be found in this small area.

The best way to explore Parco Val Calanca

In Parco Val Calanca you are ideally on foot. Bicycle and mountain bike routes are not really found here, but there are several beautiful hikes that will lead you into the hidden valley:

• The Via Calanca is a hike that can be done in three stages.
• The Panoramic Calanca Valley Trail is a leisurely hike that is also suitable for families.
• In the Lower Calanca Valley there is a circular hike that is perfect for nature lovers who are in good shape.
• Other trails start in Rossa, a village at the end - or beginning? - of the Via Calanca

Additional information about this park candidate can be found on the website of Parco Val Calanca.

How to reach the Parco Val Calanca

With public transport it is a bit of a cramp to reach the Parco Val Calanca. With the post bus from Chur or Bellinzona you can get to Rossa, a good starting point for various hikes, with one or two changes

The Calanca Valley is easily accessible all year round via the A2 and A13 freeways. Here you will find a more detailed description of your journey to the Parco Val Calanca

Beverin Nature Park

Facts and figures about the Beverin Nature Park

Let's move on to a somewhat larger park for a change. The Beverin Nature Park covers an area of 515 km² and extends over nine municipalities. It has been a regional nature park since 2013 and has about 3700 inhabitants

Ibexes excluded.

The park is named after the Piz Beverin, a 2998 meter high mountain that characterizes the image of this nature park in the canton of Graubünden. The area includes four valleys and two linguistically distinct settlement areas

What awaits you in the Beverin Nature Park

In the Beverin Nature Park, incomparable landscapes of the Grisons mountains await you

Deep gorges such as the Rhine Gorge - also known as the "Swiss Grand Canyon" - imposing mountain landscapes around the Piz Beverin, a hunting reserve that is home to over 350 ibexes, and regionally important mining areas are among the features of the nature park.

One of the three gorges that make their way through the valleys is the famous Viamala Gorge. The name means something like "bad way". And it is not by chance. If you find yourself on the well-prepared hiking trail with bridges and wooden footbridges in this unpleasant gorge and imagine how dangerous this obstacle on the way south used to be, the pessimistic naming will hardly surprise you.

How you can best explore the Beverin Nature Park

The Beverin Nature Park can be explored on foot, by bicycle or mountain bike. But certain gorges are also available for a trip in a canoe or a canyoning tour. It all depends on how much adrenaline you want to release during your stay in the park. Among the options you can choose from are:

• The Via Capricorn is entirely dedicated to the ibex and takes you on a 51 km hike, covered in three stages, across the ibex territory at Schamserberg. The overcoming of 3,400 meters of altitude should not stop you if you want to enjoy this hike.
• Information and suggestions about the Rhine Gorge, which touches the northern edge of the Beverin Nature Park, can be found on the Ruinaulta website
• On the Heinzenberger Gratweg you will be accompanied by wonderful views of the Grisons Alps
• By bike, the Graubünden Route leads you in several stages through various parts of the canton. The fifth stage from Thusis to Splügen runs, among other things, through the Viamala Gorge and along the Hinterrhein.
• Several mountain bike routes, such as the Alpine Bike Route, can be found on the interactive map from Schweizmobil.
• Offers for rafting excursions or guided mountain tours are listed on the website of the Beverin Nature Park.

Hiking trails and other activities are rather sparse on the park website. Nevertheless, you will find helpful information and details about current offers

How to reach the Beverin Nature Park

The Beverin Nature Park can be reached by car on the A13 via Chur, or by train on the Rhaetian Railway, also via Chur or Thusis. Within the park there are various post bus lines and regional trains

Parc Ela

Facts and figures about Parc Ela

Parc Ela is also located in the canton of Graubünden and, with an area of 548 km, is the largest nature park in Switzerland. It covers the territory of six municipalities and unites a whole three language cultures - German, Romansh and Italian. In total, only about 5200 inhabitants live within its borders.

Parc Ela has been part of the Swiss nature parks since 2012 and directly borders the Beverin Nature Park to the west. The lowest point is in the Schin Gorge at 745 meters and the highest point is on Piz Kesch at 3418 meters above sea level.

What awaits you in Parc Ela

In Parc Ela you will encounter a wild landscape, steep mountain peaks, moorlands of national importance, beautiful Graubünden villages - such as Bergün - and vast landscapes surrounded by glaciers and mountain lakes. In addition, the Albula mountain line, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rhaetian Railway, runs over the Albula Pass. With all its helical tunnels and loops that the train passes through to overcome the altitude, you can quickly lose your bearings.

With over 70 species of mammals, Parc Ela provides habitat for a rich diversity of animals. Starting with the dwarf shrew weighing 3 grams and ending with the red deer weighing over 200 kg. By the way, since 2009 wolves can be detected in the park again. Bears have also found their way in sporadically, although this has not happened since 2008.

In the nature park there are also numerous medieval castles and churches, which can be visited on various excursions

How to best explore Parc Ela

In this park, which is large by Swiss standards, you can get around in a variety of ways. There are endless hiking trails and mountain bike routes, pass roads for bikers and motorcyclists, and various Rhaetian Railway lines

A very impressive train ride is on the Albula line, which is on the line of the Bernina Express. This panoramic train runs from Chur past the Rhine Gorge and along the winding Albula line to St. Moritz in the Engadine. Other possible ideas for excursions and activities are as follows:

• A hike in Parc Ela is almost a must. Various long-distance hikes, which lead in several stages through the canton of Graubünden, pass by the nature park. But also shorter hikes are possible on the more than 100 km of hiking trails.
• The pretty, small Palpuognasee, which we described in more detail in this article, is located directly on the Albulapass road and is definitely worth a visit
• On a total of 26 themed trails you can discover the uniqueness of Parc Ela
• By bike or mountain bike you have an almost endless choice of routes at your disposal

A variety of excursion destinations in Parc Ela - 523 to be exact - are listed at this link. Further information about the park is compiled on the nature park website

How to reach Parc Ela

Parc Ela is easily accessible by public transport as well as by car from Davos, St. Moritz or Chur. Various post bus lines take you to the places that do not have a railroad line

The park is also popular with cyclists and motorcyclists who take a tour over the passes of the canton of Graubünden

Swiss National Park

Facts and figures about the Swiss National Park

There is only one national park in Switzerland. But this one has it all... Nowhere else in Switzerland will you encounter so many marmots, ibexes and other wild animals in the wild

The Swiss National Park has existed since 1914 and is located in the Engadine in the canton of Graubünden. It covers an area of 170 km²] and apart from a very rich wildlife, there is no permanent resident population in the park.

Since 2010, together with the municipalities of Val Müstair and Scuol, it forms the UNESCO Biosphere Val Müstair, which you will learn more about later. With over 100 years under its belt, it is not only the oldest national park in the Alps, but also the best protected.

What to expect in the Swiss National Park

As you can guess, it's all about one thing

Nature.

The national park is open to visitors on around 100 km of signposted hiking trails and a total of 21 routes. You can expect a variety of animals such as ibex, marmots, chamois, red deer, foxes, squirrels, bearded vultures and many more. In addition, the park has a rich flora, breathtaking views and unspoiled landscapes.

However, in order to make all the beautiful aspects possible, there are a whole set of rules that every visitor has to follow. For example, due to the high protection of the national park, it is not allowed to leave the trails, make an open fire, spend the night freely in the park or take any plants with you

A detailed list of what is forbidden in order to preserve nature in all its beauty can be found here

The only possibility for an overnight stay in the Swiss National Park are on the one hand the Chamanna Cluozza - a simple hut in the middle of the Val Cluozza - and on the other hand the Hotel Parc Naziunal il Fuorn.

How you can best explore the Swiss National Park

Apart from hiking, all sports are prohibited in the National Park. That means: put on your hiking boots, put on your backpack and off you go.

The 21 hiking routes, which are, however, closed in winter, can be filtered on the Swiss National Park website according to marching time, altitude gain and difficulty

The main entrance to the park, through which virtually all hiking trails can be reached, is Zernez. Here is also the Visitor Center, where all conceivable information is served to you on a silver platter

Speaking of information: The Swiss National Park website is your best source to prepare for your trip. Whether it's finding out more about the app created for the park, browsing special tourist offers, or securing a place at the accommodation

How to reach the Swiss National Park

Due to its peripheral location, the National Park can only be reached with a certain amount of time. However, the access with the trains of the SBB and the Rhaetian Railway to Zernez is very good. Detailed information on how to get there can be found here

Arrival by car is also possible, although the number of parking spaces directly at the park is rather limited.

Biosphere Val Müstair

Facts and figures about the Val Müstair Biosphere

This idyllic spot on earth has been part of the Swiss nature parks since 2011 and covers an area of 199 km². The park is located in a single municipality and is home to around 1,400 inhabitants.

Like the Entlebuch, the Val Müstair Biosphere also bears a UNESCO World Heritage designation. Or rather two of them. The two awards went on the one hand to the monastery of St. Johann in Müstair and on the other to the high alpine biosphere reserve that Müstair shares with the national park and the municipality of Scuol

What awaits you in the Biosphere Val Müstair

The Val Müstair Biosphere is a small world in itself on the other side of the Ofen Pass. Biodiversity is a priority here and several projects are dedicated to endangered animal species and the preservation of existing landscapes, among other things.

Typical Graubünden villages, spectacular mountain landscapes, several museums, a traditional hand weaving mill, the great variety of wildlife, the famous monastery of St. Johann, crystal clear mountain streams and rivers make up the beauty and uniqueness of the Biosphere Val Müstair.

How you can best explore the Biosphere Val Müstair

The Biosphere is best discovered on foot or by mountain bike. A visit is also possible by car or post bus, although you will definitely see more of the park at a slower pace. Here for the last time a selection of possible hikes, mountain bike tours and other specialties:

• Just before the border with Italy in Müstair, as mentioned above, is the Benedictine monastery of St. Johann. Information about this UNESCO awarded building can be found here
• On the theme trail A la riva dal Rom you follow the course of the wild river Rom for 18 km. You will see flowering meadows, dense alder forests and impressive landscapes
• Various guided tours deal with topics such as wildlife, the stories of the local villages or the return of the wolf.
• The second stage of the Alpine Bike Route leads through the Val Müstair Biosphere
• Several hikes, such as a stage of the Way of St. James, can be found on the interactive map of Switzerland Mobile

What else is waiting for you in the Biosphere Val Müstair, such as tips on local products or current attractions, you can find on this website

How to reach the Biosphere Val Müstair

Whether you travel by public transport or individually with your own car, the Biosphere Val Müstair is not easy to reach. Nestled in the very tip of Switzerland, the journey to the Engadin and via Zernez is a time-consuming undertaking, but one that is clearly worthwhile.

By train, the journey takes place from almost all corners of Switzerland via Landquart with a subsequent trip through the Vereina tunnel to Zernez. By car, you either drive over one of the mountain passes or you send your car through the Vereina tunnel by car transport.

Further practical information

Finally, we share a few more tips with you about Swiss nature parks:

• There are various helpful apps that will accompany you on your visit and keep you on the right path.
• On this interactive map you can get a good overview where to find which nature park.
• For the journey by public transport we recommend you to use the timetable on the SBB website.