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Description
The Swiss National Park, founded in 1914, is the oldest national park in Central Europe and spans 170 km² at an altitude of 1,400 to nearly 3,200 meters above sea level. It is home to typical alpine flora and fauna. Just over 120 bird species have been recorded in the park. One-third of its area is below the tree line, one-fifth consists of meadows, and the rest is barren terrain (rocks, ice, and snow).
The easiest way to explore the park is via an east-to-west alpine valley, the Val Müstair, through which the park's only road, the Ofenpass-Strasse H28, runs. Mountain peaks rise to the north and south of the road, while the largest part of the national park stretches south into the Val Trupchun. Munt la Schera is an easily accessible mountain south of the road and features the most popular birdwatching route in the area, with the park’s only specific reference points on Switzerland’s birdwatching website ornitho.ch. Similar species may also be found in the more remote Val Cluozza or the Val dal Spöl.
At the foot of Munt la Schera (1), the Ova dal Fuorn runs through the valley. At various points along the river, one can find White-throated Dipper, Grey Wagtail, and Common Sandpiper. The latter is the only regularly reported wader in the area, aside from the rare Dotterel, which has rested on Munt la Schera several times between late August and mid-September in recent years. This species, however, is more reliably observed on the Cassonsgrat outside the park.
The first elevation gains lead through spruce forests (2). The Nutcracker, the park's emblematic bird, is omnipresent here. Additionally, Common Crossbill, Eurasian Three-toed Woodpecker, and, with some luck, Black Grouse can be observed. The Grey-headed Woodpecker is a rarity, and the Eurasian Woodcock is elusive, best seen in the evening. Secretive owl and grouse species may also be present.
Beyond the tree line, the dry dolomite is overgrown with meadows and scattered shrubs (3), forming the preferred habitat of Alpine Accentor, Lesser Redpoll, Water Pipit, Lesser Whitethroat, Northern Wheatear, Citril Finch, and occasionally Common Rock Thrush.
Following the path higher up, through steep scree slopes and rocky, vegetation-poor areas (4), one might, with patience and sharp eyes, spot the well-camouflaged Rock Ptarmigan as well as Wallcreeper and White-winged Snowfinch.
The true highlights of the park are often found high up in the skies. Alongside Yellow-billed Chough and Common Raven, the park's birds of prey include European Honey-buzzard, Peregrine Falcon, Golden Eagle, and the iconic Bearded Vulture, which was reintroduced to the park in 1991 after being driven to extinction. For several decades, this largest bird of the Alps has been breeding in the area and can be seen throughout the park. It is no longer the only vulture here: since 2018, there have been occasional sightings of Griffon Vulture. Increasingly larger groups of this species spend the summers in the Central Swiss Alps.
Details
Access
The Swiss National Park is easiest to reach from Zernez. From there, the Postbus 811 runs hourly toward Mals. The suggested route begins at the Il Fuorn P6 stop, where the park's only hotel is also located. P1 to P10 are parking areas, but due to the limited number of spaces, traveling by public transport is strongly recommended. Cars can be parked in Zernez (at the Alossai parking lot, the municipal parking lot, the parking lot of the bath, the train station, or at Pra da Punt).
The suggested route (6 km one way) is well-maintained but is a mountain trail. Good physical condition, sufficient water, sturdy footwear, and sun protection are essential. Checking the weather beforehand is highly recommended.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Mountain , Canyon/cliff , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , ValleyConditions
Mountainous , Rocky , Dry , No shadowCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
NoGood birding season
Summer , AutumnBest time to visit
SummerRoute
Unpaved roadDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
The National Park can only be visited in the summer (from mid-June). Dogs are not allowed in the National Park.
Overnight stays are only permitted in the hotel or the Chamana Cluozza, a hut in a different valley, which must be booked early. Otherwise, it is recommended to find accommodation in Zernez.
Leaving the trails is prohibited in the park. Birds and mammals such as marmot, chamois, and ibex are not particularly shy due to the quiet environment and can be easily observed. Red deer are best observed during rut in autumn.
Links
- Switzerland's best online maps
- Description of the trail (as a round-trip to Buffalora)
- Swiss National Park Homepgae
- Website of the hotel at (1)