The Lower Engadine

What to expect from a visit to the Lower Engadin

The Engadine is one of the driest regions in Switzerland, as clouds are mostly blocked by the mountains in the west and the north. Even though the Lower Engadine is the lowest part of the valley, the valley floor is still relatively high: 1000 to 1600 m above sea level. That results in a climate that is colder than in many other Swiss valleys.

The Engadine is all about nature and outdoor activities. Good weather is important.

Except for St. Moritz in the Upper Engadine, there are hardly any larger towns, and no cities at all.  If you love the Alps and want to get a bit off the tourist trail, the Lower Engadine is a perfect destination.

Towns in the Lower Engadine

Scuol is the central town in the Lower Engadine. Zernez, at the entrance of the Swiss National Park, is another town of some size. Both towns can be reached by train.

Another village worth mentioning is Samnaun, in the outmost north-east corner of the Lower Engadine. This isolated municipality is the only tax-free shopping zone in Switzerland. It's also located amidst stunning scenery: a beautiful place for hiking and winter sports.

Must do's in the Lower Engadine

You don't want to miss the Swiss National Park. There's an information center in Zernez, and bus services across the Ofen Pass to Müstair offer the opportunity to visit the park and start hiking.

For a great view of the valley, take the cable car from Scuol up to Motta Naluns.