Best natural monuments around Vals are found in a serene mountain village in the Graubünden canton of Switzerland, shaped by the powerful forces of water and ice. The Valsertal (Vals Valley) is a deep-cut mountain valley with a rugged and diverse terrain, characterized by majestic mountains, clear streams, and alpine lakes. The region's natural features include the Vals Thermal Spring, the only thermal spring in Graubünden emerging directly from the ground. These elements collectively make Vals a compelling destination for…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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Acquarossa is in the center of the Blenio Valley, a valley full of wonderful mountain bike trails, for all tastes. Discover them on komoot at www.komoot.com/it-it/collection/3576744/-blenio-bike-28-tour-mtb-in-valle-di-blenio-la-valle-del-sole or on the association's official website www.bleniobike.ch.
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Lake Carassina is an artificial lake at 1,705 meters above sea level in a side valley of the Blenio. It is fed by various mountain streams and exploited to produce hydroelectric energy. The scenery of the surrounding mountains is breathtaking.
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Lake Luzzone is located in the upper Blenio valley at 1590 meters above sea level. It is an artificial basin originating from a 225 meter high dam and completed in 1963.
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The town is of Etruscan origin and dates back to the mid-7th century BC. The current name derives from the nearby iron-rich water source.
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Large crevice into which one can descend. According to a legend, the pastor of Vals once had to go up to the village of Zerfreila (which was then flooded by the dam in 1957) to administer the last sacraments to a dying woman. However, the path had been buried by an avalanche and he couldn't continue to the village, but he couldn't go back to Vals either. He had already resigned himself to freezing to death here when it occurred to him that he must be near the "Warma Chracha". In fact, he was able to save himself up to this crevasse. He saw footprints in the snow, but not a soul far and wide, no matter how hard he shouted. Finally he gathered all his courage and climbed down into the crevasse. There he soon came across a wooden board and noticed with astonishment that he was standing by a coffin - the coffin of that dying woman from Zerfreila. Because there was no cemetery in Zerfreila at that time, the coffin should have been transported to Vals, but the pallbearers couldn't get through either and so they deposited the coffin in the warm Chrachä... the priest recognized this quickly and began immediately for them praying for the dead as if he had come in time. The legend is much more extensive in the original :-)
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Luzzone restaurant, Cordon Bleu by fearaaa
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The Vals region offers a variety of unique natural monuments. You can visit the impressive Lago di Luzzone and Luzzone Dam, an artificial basin with a 225-meter high dam, or explore the Greina Plateau, a vast, untouched natural plateau unique in Switzerland. Another fascinating spot is the Waarma Chrachä Earth Fissure, a large crevice with local legends.
Yes, several natural monuments around Vals are family-friendly. The area around Lago di Luzzone and Luzzone Dam is considered family-friendly and offers scenic views. The general landscape of the Valsertal, with its clear streams and alpine lakes, provides many opportunities for family outings and gentle walks.
The Vals Valley (Valsertal) is characterized by a dramatic landscape sculpted by ice and water. You'll encounter majestic mountains, deep-cut valleys, clear streams, and stunning alpine lakes like Zervreilasee. The region also features unique geological formations such as earth fissures and the natural thermal springs of Vals.
Yes, the Acquarossa Thermal Springs are a natural monument with significant historical context. The town of Acquarossa, named after its iron-rich water, has Etruscan origins, and the springs themselves have been known for their medicinal healing powers since at least the 18th century, with a historic spa built on earlier foundations.
The Vals region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various activities such as hiking, mountain biking, gravel biking, and road cycling. For example, there are numerous MTB Trails around Vals, Gravel biking routes around Vals, and Road Cycling Routes around Vals that allow you to explore the stunning alpine environment.
Absolutely. The Greina Plateau is renowned as a wonderful hiking retreat, offering a unique landscape. Many trails also lead to and around alpine lakes like Lake Carassina, providing breathtaking views of the western Alps. The entire Valsertal offers abundant opportunities for experiencing untouched nature on foot.
The best time to visit the natural monuments around Vals largely depends on the activities you plan. Summer and early autumn (June to October) are ideal for hiking and exploring the alpine lakes and plateaus, offering pleasant weather and accessible trails. Winter provides opportunities for snow-related activities and a different, serene perspective of the snow-covered landscape.
Many trails and natural areas in Vals are dog-friendly. For instance, the area around Lago di Luzzone and Luzzone Dam is noted as dog-friendly. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas or near livestock, and to check specific local regulations for each trail or monument.
Visitors frequently praise the untouched natural beauty and tranquility of the Vals region. They particularly enjoy the stunning panoramic views from places like Lake Carassina and the unique experience of hiking across the Greina Plateau. The clear air, diverse landscapes, and the opportunity for deep connection with the alpine environment are consistently highlighted.
Yes, the region features impressive artificial lakes that are also considered natural monuments due to their integration into the landscape and their scale. These include Lago di Luzzone and Luzzone Dam, an artificial basin at 1590 meters above sea level, and Lake Carassina, another artificial lake at 1705 meters above sea level, both offering spectacular scenery.
Vals is accessible by public transport, typically via bus connections from Ilanz, which is reachable by train. From Vals, local buses or post buses can take you closer to various starting points for exploring the natural monuments. For specific routes and schedules, it's recommended to check local transport information, as some remote areas might require a longer walk or a private vehicle.
While the main highlights are well-known, the entire Valsertal is full of hidden gems. Exploring the numerous streams and smaller alpine lakes that dot the landscape can lead to secluded and serene spots. The Waarma Chrachä Earth Fissure, with its intriguing local legend, offers a more unique and less conventional natural monument experience.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Vals: