Sils/Segl Baselgia: Village History, Culture and Lake

The history of Sils/Segl Baselgia can be traced to a specific place: San Lurench, around which the village developed. Other highlights include the public Biblioteca Engiadinaisa, with views of Lake Sils, historic houses and activities by the water. If you are planning a hotel stay, you will find plenty to explore here—from late Gothic architecture to sailing and picnicking on the Chastè peninsula.

Library and getting here

The Biblioteca Engiadinaisa is a public library for local residents and holidaymakers, and is open to everyone; use of the library and borrowing are free of charge. It serves information, education and culture. The reading room offers a welcoming atmosphere and views of Lake Sils. Bus routes 602 and 604 stop right next to the library at the Sils/Segl Baselgia, Biblioteca bus stop. If you plan to use this connection to get here, check the timetable before travelling, as transport information can change.

San Lurench and the village’s architectural history

The late Gothic church of San Lurench (St Lawrence) was first mentioned in a document in 1356. Its location had already been important since Roman times, as it lies on the transport route between Bergell and the Julier Pass. Sils Baselgia developed around the church. The first documentary mention in 1356 and the site’s earlier importance dating back to Roman times represent two distinct historical periods. San Lurench is open to the public; check access before your visit.

The village’s houses also tell the story of different periods of construction. The Castelmur-Salis house is an imposing patrician double house with an outdoor staircase and elaborate sgraffito decoration. Sgraffiti are ornaments scratched or incised into plaster. The history of Chesa Lagrev-Schucan goes back further: in 1907, an Engadine farmhouse dating from the 16th century was remodelled and extended upwards. Much of the 1907 building fabric has been preserved, including terrazzo floors and Art Nouveau door frames. The building is privately used.

Another architectural story is that of the Parkhotel Margna. In 1817, Johann Josty had a house built for his wife, and the family residence eventually became today’s hotel. The residence was extended several times; major extensions were carried out in 1905/06 and 1913/14 by Nicolaus Hartmann Jr. Sils Baselgia thus brings together different examples: a late Gothic church, a patrician double house and buildings whose present-day appearance reflects later renovations.

Culture, walks and activities by the water

A cultural walk includes a short visit to the Schwarzenbach House in Sils Baselgia. Annemarie Schwarzenbach lived and died in this house. The walk is listed in the 2026–2027 cultural programme and is subject to the programme schedule; check before travelling whether the visit is offered on your chosen date.

If the Chastè peninsula is on your itinerary, here is a direct comparison of walking times: it is a shorter walk from Sils Baselgia than from Sils Maria. There are barbecue and picnic areas on the peninsula, where you can jump into Lake Sils. Local conditions may vary. The access point for the Sils Baselgia cross-country loop is 20 metres towards the main road from the Sils/Segl Baselgia, San Lurench bus stop.

Sailing is another option. Depending on availability, you can rent a boat from the Silsersee sailing school after a sailing lesson and sail independently; check availability in advance. D-Schein exam courses are listed there for 2026, and no previous sailing experience is required. If you are planning to take one of these courses, check current availability before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Stampa, Zuoz, Samedan, Silvaplana, Pontresina, Surlej, Bregaglia, Castasegna

For the main travel overview: Maloja.