Thursday 4 July 2024 - Piz Chuern (Europe Day 17)

On a beautiful blue sky day we set off on foot from the hotel to the Furtschella cable car that took us up to 2312 metres from our 1800 metre base. Here's a view from the cable car.

Once up there, we enjoyed a glorious walk to Piz Chuern, 2684 metres. Fabulous Engadina views.

The Australians, Matt and Jenny, spent most of the day a bit ahead of us, appreciating that this was a walk to remember. 

I'm short of time, so I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

                                             An interesting river crossing...

Here we are on the summit of  Piz Chuern, courtesy of a Swiss trio.

Crossing one of the torrents was a bit tricky. The Swiss took off their shoes and socks, Matt very bravely jumped, Jenny waded in her new boots, and Sue and I donned gaiters, brought specially in anticipation of this obstacle. We all stayed dry, apart from the Swiss. 

Lower down, a couple of planks almost made it feel like cheating!

Having spotted lots of King of the Alps flowers, we had been tipped off as to some Edelweiss soon after the plank bridge. And yes, not many, but they were there.

Eventually, accompanied by the whistles of the local marmots, we reached the comfort of the verdant Fex valley, emerging finally down some steep steps beside the Edelweiss Hotel. 

Beers etc outside Hotel Maria with Matt and Jenny were most welcome. 

Today's outing was about 12.8km, with 643 metres ascent, taking a leisurely 6.5 hours.

                                                  Entire-leaved Primrose 

                                                               King of the Alps 

                                                  Viscid Primrose 

                                                     Purple Saxifrage

 

                                                        Trumpet Gentians
  

                                                                 Edelweiss 

Mileage: 0 (Cum: 1160)
Garmin: 12.8km, 643 metres ascent