Fanas is a village in the Vorderprättigau region of the canton of Graubünden. It lies on a terrace on the northern side of the Vorderprättigau; part of Fanas territory lies in the area between the Taschinasbach and Schraubach streams. The village is situated on the mountainside, about 300 metres above the valley floor. The Sassauna ridge shapes the view from the village, while the 2,394-metre-high Girenspitz marks the northeastern end of the Salginatobel. Trails through the mountain landscape and traces of village history give a stay in Fanas a variety of possible focuses.
By Cable Car into the Mountain Landscape
The Fanas cable car runs year-round, taking visitors to the Maiensäss Eggli at 1,700 metres above sea level in 13 minutes. Check the timetable and availability before travelling. From the mountain station, you can choose between a short circular hike and a longer ascent: the flower trail is an easy 1.9-kilometre loop that takes about an hour, with 70 metres of ascent and descent. It starts and finishes at the mountain station. More than 30 flowers are marked and described along the trail; the flowering season depends on the time of year.
If you have more time for an ascent, you can reach the 2,307-metre-high Sassauna from the same mountain station, crossing meadows rich in Alpine flora. The ascent takes about an hour and a half. The circular hike and the ascent therefore differ in both the time required and the route: one is a loop from the mountain station, while the other leads up the mountain.
Hiking Trails and Practical Conditions
Longer routes also explore the surrounding area. The hike from Seewis to Fanas crosses the Taschinasbach, two steep stairways, the GeissrĂĽgg forest clearing and the Munt-Tobel gorge before reaching the sunny terrace of Fanas. At the Taschinasbach, take high-water conditions into account after the snowmelt or heavy rain. At the Kohlplatz section, fire pits and benches invite you to take a break.
The shortest descent from Cania to Fanas passes through a marshland of regional importance. About halfway along, near Cania, there is a rest area with a fountain and barbecue spot. The hiking trails follow natural paths; expect wet sections during and after rain. Sturdy, high-cut hiking boots are recommended. In the marked areas of the Fanas wildlife quiet zone, you may walk only on the trails from 1 February to 30 April; leaving the trails is prohibited. Check the latest local guidance before setting out.
Another place to take a break is the Swiss Family fire pit provided by the municipality of Fanas, about 15 minutes from the village. Firewood is available at the fire pit. As facilities may change, it is worth checking the latest local guidance before your visit.
Village Centre and Local History
The old, densely built village centre is dominated by the church, built in 1755. Three imposing houses dating from 1677, 1726 and 1761 shape the village square. These historic buildings give the village centre a different focus from the trails to mountain meadows and viewpoints.
The Old Sawmill is also part of local history: it was first mentioned in writing on 14 June 1833. During its extensive renovation in 1989, its turbine drive, dating from 1916, was preserved in working order. Another chapter extends beyond local history: in 1855, the municipality organised a large-scale emigration to Brazil. Fifty people answered the call, led by the teacher Thomas Davatz.
Paragliding in Fanas
Fanas is also a versatile paragliding area with excellent thermals. Cross-country flights to the Arlberg, Innsbruck and Bolzano, as well as to Liechtenstein and the Rhine Valley, are possible. Whether a flight can take place depends on the weather and local safety regulations. Alongside hiking and local history, flying is another possible focus for your stay.
Discover more destinations: Says, Jenins, Malans, Zizers, Maienfeld, Igis, Untervaz, Mastrils
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