Lü: Trails, winter experiences and starry skies

The small village of Lü and its hamlet of Lüsai lie high above Val Müstair. Lü is situated at around 1,916 m above sea level. Rare orchids, figworts and medicinal plants grow nearby. Their flowering or visibility depends on the season; the plants can be viewed during the day. The night sky is another special feature of the village: low light pollution at over 1,900 m creates good conditions for stargazing, though visibility depends on the weather.

Plan hikes and stages

A circular hike leads from Lü via Urschai, Alp Valmorain, Alp Tabladatsch and Lai da Valpaschun. It follows a forest road before returning to Lü. If you are interested in the Graubünden Way of St. James, Lü is both the destination of the first stage and the starting point of the second. The first stage runs from the border at Müstair/Cunfin via Müstair, Sta. Maria, Valchava, Fuldera and Tschierv or Chasuras to Lü. The second begins there, climbs via Alp Champatsch to Pass da Costainas at 2,251 m, then descends past the Astras and Praditschöl alpine pastures in the direction of S-charl. The stages therefore differ not only in their stops but also in their direction from or to Lü. Conditions and access may change with the seasons; check before setting out.

Bike tour through the valley

The Val Müstair Bike Tour is 21 km long and has 1,000 m of descent. It crosses the entire valley: from Alp Champatsch, it runs through the forest to Lü, then continues on single trails to Müstair. One section follows a single trail through moorland and past Swiss stone pines and larches. The distance and elevation figures give a clear idea of the tour’s scope; its route is therefore quite different from the circular hike, which returns to Lü. Trail conditions may vary seasonally.

Winter trails, tobogganing and cross-country skiing

The Senda Alp da Munt–Alp Champatsch winter panorama trail leads from the alp downhill to Lü, either on foot or on a sled you bring with you. The descent can then be extended downhill to Tschierv. This is distinct from the Lü toboggan run to Tschierv: it starts in Lü, ends in Tschierv and passes through a snow-covered winter forest. The run is 3 km long, descends 256 m and is rated easy. Sledges are available for hire on site, and the run is lit for night-time tobogganing. Operation is seasonal and weather-dependent. Safety and opening conditions may also vary on the winter panorama trail.

Another winter option is the Lü «La sulagliva» panoramic cross-country ski trail. It is 3 km long, with a stated duration of 25 minutes. Both the ascent and descent are 30 m. The toboggan run and the ski trail therefore differ in both activity and stated elevation profile. Check seasonal conditions before planning your visit.

Stargazing and village life

On clear nights, the Observatori astronomic Lü offers guided walks explaining prominent constellations. The meeting point for the tour is in the car park at the entrance to Lü. If you are interested in the night sky, the village combines favourable viewing conditions with a specific guided experience; however, tours are held only when the sky is clear.

Language and customs are also part of the village’s character: Jauer is Lü’s traditional language and a variant of the Vallader dialect of Romansh. During Chalandamarz, a procession makes its way through Lü’s lanes. There is also a playground and barbecue area near Lü-Lüsai, making it a suitable outing for the whole family. Depending on your interests, you can discover Lü through its hiking and winter trails, the starry sky or local traditions.

Discover more destinations: Schleins, Sent, Ftan, Valcava, Remüs, Sta. Maria Val Müstair, Lavin, Guarda

See the overview of destinations: Inn.