The Swiss National Park: Wilderness on the Doorstep

Real wilderness in the Engadine

The Swiss National Park is the oldest national park in the Alps and the only one in Switzerland. It lies in the Lower Engadine, around Zernez, and is easily reached from Bever as a day trip. Strict protection applies here: nature is allowed to develop completely undisturbed – no forestry, no management, no intervention. A rare experience in Europe that shows how a landscape develops when left to itself over decades.

Wildlife up close

The park is a paradise for wildlife watching. Ibex, chamois, marmots, red deer and, with a little luck, bearded vultures or golden eagles can be observed. Bring binoculars and allow time – patience is rewarded, especially in the early morning and evening hours. In autumn the deer rut is an impressive natural spectacle: the bellowing of the stags then echoes through the valleys.

Hiking in the park

A network of marked hiking trails opens up the park, from an easy valley path to a demanding mountain tour. The high-alpine Lais da Macun, a plateau of lakes above Lavin, are among the most impressive destinations, as are the paths around Il Fuorn and the Val Trupchun, which is considered especially rich in wildlife. Important: in the national park you may not leave the marked paths – this is part of the protection concept and makes the park what it is.

The strict rules

Protection comes above all. The rules: stay on the paths, take nothing away, leave nothing behind, pick no plants, no fire, no dogs, no camping, no staying overnight off-trail. Avoid noise so as not to disturb the animals, and take your litter with you. These rules may seem strict, but they are precisely what makes the unique nature experience possible – protection has been applied consistently here since the founding in 1914.

The national park centre in Zernez

The ideal starting point is the national park centre in Zernez with its modern exhibition. Here you learn about the flora, fauna and history of the park, receive maps and route recommendations, and can plan your visit optimally. Guided excursions with park rangers are also offered – a worthwhile way to see and understand more.

Getting there and preparation

From Bever you drive up the valley to Zernez, where the park begins. It is worth starting here to learn about paths and wildlife observation points. Sturdy footwear, weather protection, food and binoculars belong in your backpack. Plan a whole day and go by the weather – in the high mountains it can change quickly. That way the excursion into the wilderness becomes a highlight of the Engadine holiday. Day trips from Bever

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