S-Chanf: Nature, Hiking and Village History

S-chanf is in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, in the Upper Engadine and the La Plaiv region; it belongs to the Maloja region. At an altitude of around 1,660 m, the village lies in the upper reaches of the Inn. S-chanf is a substantial street village and one of the municipalities that lease land to the Swiss National Park. It is also at the entrance to Val Trupchun, known as the “deer arena.” This brings together local history, natural landscapes and a range of activities as possible focal points for a trip.

Val Trupchun and the hike to Varusch

In autumn, during the rutting season, hundreds of stags compete for the attention of the hinds in Val Trupchun. This gives nature enthusiasts a specific seasonal highlight. The S-chanf (Prasüras)–Varusch circular hike starts at the Prasüras car park near S-chanf and leads through a moss-rich forest with a wide variety of plants in the undergrowth. After just under an hour, you reach the Varusch park hut; the Swiss National Park begins only beyond the hut. Trail conditions can vary. Before setting out, check the current conditions and access to the starting point.

Ropes course and activities at Serlas Parc

The ParcAlpin ropes course is located at Prasüras, on the way to the Swiss National Park. It offers six courses of varying difficulty, inspired by the wildlife of the Swiss National Park. Opening is seasonal; check the current dates before your visit.

Serlas Parc in S-chanf has a 450 m² climbing hall with a 120 m² bouldering area. Climbing is possible there year-round, even in the rain; operating arrangements may change, so check the latest information before your visit. Serlas Parc also has four micro-bowling lanes, each 12 m long. The difference is clear for planning your visit: the ropes course operates seasonally, while climbing at Serlas Parc is possible year-round, even in the rain.

Village history and visitor information

The guided village tour in S-chanf takes you past the patrician houses. The tour includes visits to, among other things, the Reformed church, with its impressive organ and stained-glass windows. As dates may change, check the current schedule before taking part.

Historical place names also offer a glimpse into the past: S-chanf was mentioned as Scaneves in 1137/39 and as Scanevoer in 1356. To the north of the village lies the rocky hill Botta Striera, at an altitude of around 2,050 m. A prehistoric settlement site, discovered there in 1932, was used from the Middle Bronze Age through to the La Tène period. Medieval forms of the name and archaeological traces from much earlier periods highlight different aspects of the village’s history.

The S-chanf Tourist Information office in the municipal building provides up-to-date brochures and panoramic maps, as well as digital visitor information on touchscreens.

Discover more destinations: Bregaglia, Surlej, Madulain, Samaden, Bever, Casaccia, Celerina/Schlarigna, Samedan

Return to the main travel overview: Maloja.