Guarda (Gemeinde Scuol)

When the children chase away the winter with their bells on the 1st March in Engadin at the Chalandamarz, summer is no longer far away. The custom comes from Guarda, where the children’s book “Schellenursli”, which is popular all over Switzerland, is set. The little book also conveys feelings of home town and love of nature, of lively traditions in conjunction with wonderful views and an award-winning townscape.

As early as 1975 Guarda was awarded the Henri-Louis-Wakker prize by the Swiss Heritage Society for exemplary care and preservation of the village scene. The 200 residents preserve the original village scene with much attention to detail. The guest is amazed by the sgraffito decorated houses with their paintings and flower decorations – and almost feels like they are in a museum. Particularly as cars stay outside and are parked at the entrance to the village.

Guarda is furthermore a starting point for countless walks. It lies at the end of the Val Tuoi, under the prominent Piz Buin. The variety of alpine flowers attracts plant lovers from all over the world; the abundance of colours in contrast to the 3000 metre peaks of the Silvretta Alps constantly amazes the visitors. A tip: from the lively village centre, the Schellen-Ursli-Way leads you along six kilometres of historic paths. Stops along the roadside remind visitors of the children’s book and show animals and plants of the region.

Guarda is a living treasure, an architectural wonder.  Go on a village tour, it is worth it – and try the regional specialties in the evening, for instance the home grown lamb with gratin potatoes or the local goat’s cheese.