Prättigau Valley

Prättigau

A scenic alpine valley running from Davos toward Liechtenstein, the Prättigau offers stunning hiking trails, mountain villages, and pristine nature away from crowds. The valley is ideal for experiencing authentic alpine culture and outdoor recreation.

Things to do

• Hiking to Säntis — Trek to the iconic 2,502m peak offering panoramic views across northeastern Switzerland and into Appenzell Alps, accessible via several valley trailheads.
• Explore Schruns village — Wander this charming medieval mountain village with traditional Vorarlberg architecture, local shops, and mountain views at the valley's southern gateway.
• Mountain biking Prättigau trails — Experience well-maintained single tracks and valley routes connecting villages like Jenaz, Schiers, and Seewis with varying difficulty levels.
• Visit Partnun Gorge — Walk through a dramatic limestone canyon carved by the Partnun stream near Schiers with accessible paths suitable for families.
• Alpine dairy farming tours — Visit family-run alpine dairies and cheese-making facilities to learn traditional production methods of local Prättigau cheese.
• Kayaking on Landquart River — Paddle the scenic Landquart through forested sections and past cliff formations, with guided tours available from valley outfitters.
• Winter skiing at Madrisa — Access smaller, less crowded ski slopes with family-friendly terrain near Dorf and panoramic valley views during winter months.

Food to try

• Prättigau Käsespätzle — Egg noodles layered with local mountain cheese, fried onions, and alpine herbs, representing the region's dairy heritage and Vorarlberg influence.
• Alpkäse (Alpine cheese) — Dense, aged mountain cheese made from summer pasture milk by valley dairies, with nutty flavor and firm texture ideal for fondue or snacking.
• Rösti with Appenzell Raclette — Crispy potato pancakes topped with melted regional raclette cheese and pickled onions, a hearty valley staple served in mountain restaurants.
• Mostbröckli (dried pear) — Traditional air-dried pear slices, a local specialty that pairs with cheese and appears in autumn markets throughout the valley.
• Bergkäse fondue experience — Multi-course fondue dinner featuring three or four local mountain cheeses served communally, often paired with local white wine and pickled vegetables.

Local customs & good to know

• Greetings and alpine courtesy — Always greet locals with 'Grüezi' (Swiss German) when entering shops or restaurants; respect for quietness and nature is deeply valued here.
• Respect hiking trails and Alpine pastures — Stay on marked paths to avoid disturbing cattle and alpine ecosystems; gates should always be closed behind you, and early morning departures show respect for local schedules.
• Seasonal rhythms matter — Many family businesses close earlier in shoulder seasons and Sundays; some alpine accommodations operate on limited schedules, so booking ahead is essential year-round.
• Local dialect and language — While German and English are understood, learning basic Swiss German phrases enhances interactions and shows respect for the Vorarlberg-influenced regional identity.