Furna: Walser Houses and Alpine Landscape

Furna is a scattered settlement at 1,351 m above sea level, above the central Prättigau valley. Sunny slopes with open views across the valley, forests, alpine pastures and streams shape the landscape. Isolated farmsteads scattered across the mountain and traditional Walser houses define the settlement. The alpine surroundings are reflected both in the village’s layout and in the trails and landscape destinations that make Furna distinctive.

Walser Village and Historic Architecture

Furna has medieval origins; alpine farming was the main influence on the village. The Reformed church dates from around 1490 and stands on a prominent spur of land. Its choir is vaulted with a ribbed star vault dating from the time of construction. Alongside the Walser houses scattered across the mountain, the church is a distinct historic landmark.

Summer Trails and Winter Tours

In summer, hiking trails, mountain bike trails and climbing routes wind through the mountain landscape. The 701 Furna Circular Trail includes a climb to the summit of Fadeuer, a viewpoint with magnificent mountain panoramas. In winter, activities in Furna include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ski touring, sledding and winter hiking. There are also numerous well-marked winter hiking routes in the area around Furna, through snow-covered forests and mountain landscapes. One specific snowshoeing option is the Furna–Scäri–Furna loop: it crosses the high plateau between Danusa and Scära and passes through a vast, hilly landscape with panoramic views.

Rocks and a Biotope Along the Trail

A marked hiking trail leads to the gravel towers in Chuonzentobel. The hike offers views of the bizarre, water-eroded rocks of Ronatobel and the less stable gravel formations on the edge of Furner Tobel. Beside the trail near the old sawmill is a small biotope with alpine newts, grass frogs, common toads, pond skaters and dragonflies. As trail conditions can vary, it is advisable to check them before setting out.

Lake Älpli and Alp Rona

Lake Älpli, a reservoir, can be reached via the Furna Teufried car park. From there, a shaded forest road leads to the lake in about 15 minutes on foot. A driving permit is available from the Furna works depot; check the local access rules before travelling. There is a barbecue area with a shelter at the lake, as well as a toilet facility with running water. As the facilities may be maintained seasonally, it is best to check their condition before your visit.

Alp Rona can be reached on foot or by bike. Travel by car is possible with the appropriate paid driving permit; check locally before setting out. In the summer months, the alp produces around 8,400 kg of alpine cheese, as well as alpine butter and Ziger. In Furna, traditional inns and mountain huts also serve regional dishes made with local ingredients.

For the main travel overview: Prättigau-Davos.