Lake Toma, the source of the Rhine, lies within the municipality of Tujetsch. Twelve mountain streams feed the lake, which sits in a basin surrounded by mountain peaks over 2,000 metres high. Access is an important factor when planning your visit: Lake Toma can only be reached on foot. The hike from Oberalp Pass takes about two hours each way. Access in the mountains depends on the season; check conditions before travelling.
Hiking and trails: compare duration and difficulty
Hiking around Tujetsch ranges from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs. The alpine scenery includes green meadows and rugged peaks. Val Tavetsch is a valley in the canton of Graubünden, at an elevation of 1,485 metres.
Another option is the NEAT Adventure Trail: the 6.3-kilometre route takes about one hour and 45 minutes. Twelve information stops explain the construction and operation of the Gotthard Base Tunnel. You can start at any of the stops; the trail is suitable for families, groups and school trips. When planning your time, note that the Adventure Trail and the Lake Toma hike have different durations: the former takes about one hour and 45 minutes, while the hike from Oberalp Pass takes about two hours each way.
Lag Claus Surrein: water, play and refreshments
A raft crosses the lake at Lag Claus Surrein, and various play structures for children are available on the shore. On warm days, visitors can swim in the cool water. Food and drink available at the lake include hot and cold dishes, snacks, salads, changing varieties of cake, ice cream, and hot and cold drinks.
There is also a culinary circular hike named Tujetsch. Along the way, you can buy products from farm shops; participating farm shops and their offerings may change with the seasons. An Ustria serves «Clau», an aperitif made with white wine from Bündner Herrschaft and local syrup.
Museum and historic sites
The La Truaisch Museum presents the life and work of earlier times in Val Tujetsch. Its minerals and crystals section displays minerals collected by local crystal hunters, as well as unique specimens from the Gotthard Base Tunnel. Highlights include the world’s largest and only known Milarite specimen. Another section uses miniature figures and tools to illustrate the process from flax seed to fabric. A flax comb, spinning wheel, yarn winder and loom are also exhibited at full size.
The Chapel of Sontga Onna in Camischolas houses a Gothic altar dating from 1517. The Church of Sogn Vigeli in Sedrun has a mighty tower from the early 13th century. The «Chapels and Churches in Tujetsch» route is 16.7 kilometres long and takes about five hours; individual religious sites may have their own access rules. Other historic destinations include the ruins of Putnengia Castle, the former seat of the Knights of Pontaningen. Chrüzlipass was a historic link between Disentis Abbey and Einsiedeln Abbey.
More activities and practical considerations
In winter, skiing and snowboarding are among the activities available in Tujetsch. Operating conditions depend on the season and the relevant opening hours. If you want to pan for gold, you need a permit, available from the municipal administration or the visitor information centre in Sedrun. As regulations may change, check the current requirements before taking part.
Selva has a nine-hole golf course with a tee shot over the Rhine. From Disentis or Sedrun, take the train to Tschamut, then continue on foot for about 30 minutes. Check current train connections before travelling. When planning your visit, you can choose between different options: a mountain hike with seasonal access, a themed trail with a stated duration, cultural sites, or activities with their own practical requirements.
Discover more destinations: Vals, Falera, Schluein, Vignogn, Morissen, Tenna, Luven, Breil-Brigels.
Return to the regional travel overview: Surselva.
