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Cross-Country Skiing in the Engadine: Trails from Bever and the Ski Marathon

Journal · Winter

Cross-Country Skiing in the Engadine: Trails from Bever and the Ski Marathon

23 March 2026 · updated September 2026 · 3 min read · by Chesa Michel

The Upper Engadine is a cross-country eldorado. Everything about the trails right from Bever, classic and skating, plus tips for the legendary Engadin Ski Marathon.

Contents · 6 chapters

Cross-country & ski marathon

Trail network
over 200 km in the Upper Engadine
Engadin Ski Marathon
42 km Maloja–S-chanf, 2nd Sunday in March
Half marathon
approx. 21 km
From Bever
valley trail right by the village

A valley made for cross-country skiing

The Upper Engadine is one of the best cross-country regions in the Alps. The wide, flat high valley, the snow reliability at around 1,700 metres and a perfectly groomed trail network of over 200 kilometres draw cross-country skiers from all over Europe every winter. And Bever lies right in the middle – with an advantage few other villages offer.

Two cross-country skiers in classic style during a race

Trails right from Bever

One of Bever’s great advantages: the valley trail runs right by the village. You clip on your skis and you are on the track – no long approach, no search for parking. From here the entire trail network of the Upper Engadine is accessible, from Maloja at the upper end of the valley down to S-chanf. Both classic tracks and skating pistes are groomed and signposted throughout. If you like, you can ski a quick loop before breakfast and be back within minutes.

For beginners and pros

The Engadine offers the right route for every level. Beginners find flat, easy sections in the sunny valley floor, ideal for first practice or for relaxed pleasure loops. More advanced skiers choose more demanding routes with climbs, for example up to Pontresina or into the quiet side valleys such as the Val Roseg. Cross-country schools in the neighbouring villages offer courses for all levels and rent equipment – so getting started is uncomplicated too.

The Engadin Ski Marathon

The highlight of the season is the Engadin Ski Marathon, held on the second Sunday in March. On the roughly 42-kilometre route from Maloja to S-chanf, around 14,000 skiers set off each year – one of the largest cross-country races in the world. The route runs across the frozen lakes and through the whole valley, past Bever. Even those who do not ski themselves experience a unique atmosphere along the trail with thousands of spectators. Those who want to take part should book a start place and accommodation early – both are quickly sold out around the race.

Skating or classic?

Both styles have their place in the Engadine. The classic style with the set double track is beginner-friendly and even, while skating is more dynamic and sporty and demands a little more technique. The network, groomed for both throughout, lets you switch depending on your form and mood. Those unsure begin with classic and try skating in a course.

The surroundings

After a day of cross-country skiing, winter walking trails, sledging runs and cosy sun terraces beckon for a stop. Your own holiday apartment is ideal for cross-country skiers: apply ski wax, dry wet clothing, store the equipment safely and step straight onto the trail in the morning. That turns the winter day into real relaxation. Cross-country holidays in Bever


More inspiration in the Journal – or view the holiday apartments and check availability.

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Does the trail run right through Bever?
Yes, the Engadine valley trail runs right by the village, so you can start without any approach – a great advantage for cross-country skiers.
Is the Engadine suitable for cross-country beginners?
Yes. The flat valley floor offers many easy trails, and there are cross-country schools and equipment rental in the neighbouring villages.
How long is the trail network in the Upper Engadine?
Over 200 kilometres of groomed trails, classic and skating, from Maloja down to S-chanf – maintained throughout and well signposted.
When is the trail usually open?
Depending on snow, roughly from December to March. Thanks to its altitude of around 1,700 metres, the Upper Engadine is very snow-sure.
When and where does the Engadin Ski Marathon take place?
On the second Sunday in March, over 42 km from Maloja to S-chanf. The route runs right past Bever; there is also a half marathon of around 21 km.
Chesa Michel in Bever

Chesa Michel · Bever

Stay where the stories happen

Eight holiday apartments and studios in an Engadine house from 1786, right in the village centre of Bever – the station is a four-minute walk away.