Vals, Switzerland

TL;DR: Vals, Switzerland’s best-kept secret – a stunning alpine village offering world-class thermal spas, breathtaking hiking trails, and authentic Swiss mountain culture without the tourist crowds. Perfect for wellness seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone craving an authentic Swiss experience.

Why Vals Should Be Your Next Swiss Adventure

Situated in the Surselva Region of Grisons canton, Vals isn’t just another pretty Swiss village (though it’s absolutely gorgeous). This hidden gem has been quietly building a reputation as one of Europe’s most spectacular wellness and outdoor destinations, and honestly? It’s about time the world caught on.

Whether you’re a spa enthusiast hunting for the ultimate relaxation experience, an outdoor adventurer seeking untouched alpine trails, or someone who simply wants to experience authentic Swiss mountain life, Vals delivers in ways that’ll leave you planning your return visit before you’ve even left.

The Star Attraction: Therme Vals (Prepare to Be Amazed)

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room – or rather, the architectural masterpiece built into the mountainside. Therme Vals isn’t just a spa; it’s a work of art that happens to contain some of the most therapeutic thermal waters in Europe.

Designed by renowned architect Peter Zumthor, this isn’t your typical spa experience. Picture this: you’re soaking in naturally heated mineral water (a perfect 30°C/86°F) while surrounded by locally quarried stone that seems to emerge from the mountain itself. The play of light and shadow, the sound of water echoing off stone walls, the view of snow-capped peaks through strategically placed windows – it’s meditation in motion.

Pro insider tip: Book your spa session for late afternoon to catch the golden hour light filtering through the building. Trust us on this one.

What Makes These Waters Special?

The thermal springs at Vals have been bubbling up from deep within the earth for thousands of years, carrying minerals that locals swear by for everything from joint pain to skin conditions. The water emerges at a natural temperature that requires no artificial heating – nature’s got this one covered.

Outdoor Adventures That’ll Get Your Heart Racing

Hiking Paradise (For Every Skill Level)

Vals sits pretty at 1,250 meters above sea level, making it your launching pad for some seriously spectacular alpine adventures. The network of trails here caters to everyone from casual walkers to hardcore mountaineers.

Easy-Going Options:

• Valley Floor Walks: Perfect for families or anyone wanting stunning views without the cardio workout. These well-maintained paths offer photo opportunities around every corner.
• Village Circuit: A gentle loop that introduces you to local architecture and culture while giving your legs a light workout.

Moderate Adventures:

• Gadastatt Trail: This moderate hike rewards you with panoramic views of the Rhine Valley that’ll have you reaching for your camera every five minutes.
• Alpine Lake Routes: Several pristine mountain lakes are accessible via moderate hiking trails – perfect for a picnic with a view.

Challenge Seekers:

• Peak Bagging: Multiple 3,000+ meter peaks are accessible from Vals for experienced hikers with proper equipment.
• Multi-day Treks: Connect with the extensive Swiss hiking network for adventures that can last days or weeks.

Winter Wonderland Activities

When snow blankets the valley (typically December through March), Vals transforms into a winter sports paradise that rivals more famous destinations – minus the crowds and inflated prices.

Cross-Country Skiing: Miles of groomed trails wind through pristine valleys and forests. The silence of gliding through snow-covered landscapes is pure magic.

Snowshoeing: Explore areas that become inaccessible in summer, with guided tours available for all experience levels.

Winter Hiking: Many trails remain accessible with proper footwear, offering a completely different perspective on familiar landscapes.

Where to Rest Your Head

Luxury Options

7132 Hotel: This isn’t just accommodation; it’s an experience. Modern design meets alpine luxury, with direct access to Therme Vals and restaurants that showcase regional cuisine at its finest.

Mid-Range Comfort

Several family-run hotels and guesthouses offer that perfect blend of Swiss hospitality and mountain charm. Think cozy rooms with valley views, hearty breakfasts, and hosts who’ll share insider tips about hidden trails and local events.

Budget-Friendly Stays

Mountain huts, hostels, and apartment rentals provide comfortable options for travelers watching their budget. Many include kitchen facilities, perfect for preparing meals with fresh ingredients from local markets.

Foodie Heaven (You Won’t Go Hungry)

The culinary scene in Vals celebrates both traditional Alpine cuisine and modern gastronomy. Local restaurants source ingredients from nearby farms and use traditional preservation methods that have been passed down for generations.

Must-try local specialties:

• Capuns: Spätzle wrapped in chard leaves and baked in cream – comfort food at its finest
• Bündner Nusstorte: A nut tart that’s become the region’s signature dessert
• Local cheeses: Small-scale producers create varieties you won’t find anywhere else
• Regional wines: The Grisons region produces excellent wines that pair perfectly with mountain cuisine

Getting There (It’s Easier Than You Think)

By Train: Switzerland’s legendary rail system connects Vals to major cities with scenic efficiency. The journey from Zurich takes about 2.5 hours, with connections through Chur.

By Car: The drive offers spectacular alpine scenery, with well-maintained roads that are manageable year-round (winter tires recommended December-March).

Regional Transport: Local buses connect Vals to nearby villages and hiking trailheads, making car-free exploration totally doable.

When to Visit (Spoiler: There’s No Wrong Time)

Summer (June-September): Perfect hiking weather, longest days, and full access to high-altitude trails. This is peak season, so book accommodations early.

Winter (December-March): Snow sports, cozy spa sessions, and that magical alpine winter atmosphere. Fewer crowds mean better prices and more authentic experiences.

Shoulder Seasons (April-May, October-November): Fantastic deals, fewer tourists, and unique seasonal beauty. Spring brings wildflowers; autumn offers spectacular foliage.

Cultural Immersion Opportunities

Vals maintains strong connections to traditional Romansh culture – one of Switzerland’s four official languages. Local festivals, traditional music performances, and artisan workshops offer insights into customs that have survived in these mountains for centuries.

The village architecture tells stories of adaptation to harsh mountain conditions, with stone buildings designed to withstand avalanches and heavy snow loads while creating warm, welcoming spaces for residents and visitors alike.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Language: While German is most common, many locals speak English, especially in tourism-related businesses. Learning a few basic German phrases is always appreciated.

Currency: Swiss Francs (CHF) – credit cards widely accepted, but carrying some cash is recommended for small vendors and mountain huts.

Weather Preparedness: Mountain weather changes quickly. Layered clothing and waterproof gear are essential year-round.

Reservations: Therme Vals requires advance booking, especially during peak seasons and weekends.

Why Vals Beats the Tourist Traps

While places like Zermatt and St. Moritz grab headlines (and your wallet), Vals offers authentic Swiss alpine experiences without the tourist circus. You’ll interact with locals going about their daily lives, discover family restaurants that have been serving the same recipes for generations, and explore trails where you might not see another soul for hours.

The value proposition here is incredible – world-class amenities and natural beauty at prices that won’t require a second mortgage.

Planning Your Perfect Vals Experience

2-3 Days: Perfect for a spa-focused getaway with light hiking and local exploration.

A Week: Ideal for combining serious outdoor adventures with relaxation, plus day trips to nearby attractions.

Extended Stay: Consider Vals as a base for exploring the broader Grisons region, with its diverse landscapes, cultural sites, and outdoor opportunities.

The Bottom Line

Vals represents everything people love about Switzerland – stunning natural beauty, impeccable attention to detail, outdoor adventure opportunities, and that indefinable sense of alpine magic – without the overwhelming crowds and inflated prices of more famous destinations.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or simply a break from the ordinary, Vals delivers experiences that’ll stay with you long after you’ve returned home. In a world where authentic travel experiences are increasingly rare, this little valley in the Swiss Alps offers something genuinely special.

Ready to discover why Vals is Switzerland’s best-kept secret? Start planning your visit – but don’t wait too long. Word is getting out about this alpine paradise, and you’ll want to experience it before everyone else catches on.

Start planning your Vals adventure today – your future self will thank you for discovering this slice of Swiss paradise.