Furna is a scattered settlement at 1,351 m above sea level, above the central Prättigau. The village stretches across sunny slopes with open views of the valley; forests, alpine pastures and streams shape the landscape. As a typical Walser settlement, Furna consists of individual farms scattered across the mountain and traditional Walser houses. Alpine agriculture shaped the village, whose origins date back to the Middle Ages.
Walser history and a medieval building
A prominent landmark in the village’s history is the Reformed Church of Furna. It dates from around 1490 and stands on an exposed spur of land. The choir features a star-ribbed vault from the time of construction. Its location and architecture offer two concrete insights into this historic village: how the building sits in the terrain and a defining detail of its interior.
Furna’s settlement pattern is also reflected in its appearance. Traditional Walser houses and individual farms are scattered across the mountain rather than clustered around a single village centre. Those interested in Furna’s history can consider this settlement structure alongside the medieval church and the role of alpine agriculture.
Mountain trails and viewpoints
The 701 Furna Circular Trail includes a summit climb to Fadeuer. Fadeuer is a viewpoint with magnificent panoramic mountain views, making the mountain scenery the focus of this route. The extensive Furnerberg covers essentially the left side of the Furner Bach valley. Its highest point is Hochwang, at 2,533 m above sea level; the settlements are concentrated in Usserberg, Mittelberg and Hinterberg.
In summer, Furna offers various hiking trails, mountain bike trails and climbing routes for exploring the mountain landscape. In winter, activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ski touring, sledging and winter hiking. Numerous well-marked winter hiking routes also wind through snow-covered forests and mountain scenery in the area around Furna. The options therefore change considerably with the seasons: trails, mountain biking and climbing routes are available in summer, while winter brings activities in the snow.
One specific winter route is the Furna–Scäri–Furna snowshoe loop. It crosses the high plateau between Danusa and Scära. The tour takes in a vast, hilly landscape and panoramic views; winter conditions can vary.
Rock formations and nature observations
A marked hiking trail leads to the gravel towers in Chuonzentobel. The hike offers views of the bizarre, water-eroded rocks of Ronatobel and the less stable gravel formations on the edge of Furner Tobel. Different shapes and materials are part of the landscape here: water-eroded rock on one side and looser gravel formations on the other.
A small biotope lies beside the trail near the old sawmill. It is home to alpine newts, common frogs, common toads, water striders and dragonflies. For an outing focused on nature and landscape, these observations add another distinct dimension to the rock formations and views.
Älpli mountain lake and Alp Rona
Älpli mountain lake is a reservoir that can be reached via the Furna Teufried car park. From there, a shady forest road leads to the lake in about 15 minutes on foot. A driving permit is available from the Furna works depot; check the permit requirements before your arrival. The lake has a barbecue area with a shelter and a toilet facility with running water. As maintenance of the facilities may be seasonal, it is advisable to confirm their current condition before your visit.
During the summer months, Alp Rona produces around 8,400 kg of alpine cheese, as well as alpine butter and Ziger whey cheese. The alp can be reached on foot or by bike; travelling by car is possible with the appropriate paid driving permit. Confirm the permit arrangements before your arrival. Furna also offers regional dishes made with local ingredients in traditional inns and mountain huts. Seasonal alpine products and regional cuisine thus complement the nature and culture of your stay.
Discover more destinations
Küblis, Sankt Antönien, Schiers, Pany, Valzeina, Jenaz, Pragg-Jenaz, Conters Im Prättigau
Return to the overview of the wider region: Prättigau-Davos.
