Discover Rueun: the Polenweg and village history

Rueun combines trails along the Vorderrhein with features of local and architectural history. Its sights and routes offer a variety of ways to explore them.

Along the Polenweg

The Polenweg runs along the Rhine from Ilanz to Tavanasa. It was built by interned Polish soldiers between 1940 and 1945. At the western end of Plaun Grond, commemorative plaques and a wayside shrine recall this history. The route can therefore be viewed not only as a riverside trail, but also as a place of remembrance.

Official Trail 905 follows the Polenweg and crosses the old wooden bridge to Rueun. If you plan to follow the route, check the route details before your trip. A cycling route can also start in Rueun, follow the Polenweg and cross the covered wooden bridge. It traces the route of a former mountain race.

Churches, chapels and architectural history

The Catholic parish church of Sogn Andriu brings together architectural history from several centuries. It was first mentioned in records around 831. The tower dates from the 12th century and is Romanesque; the church itself is a Baroque building facing east. Its three-bay nave consists of three successive bays, and the square choir is set back from the nave.

The chapels, too, tell different stories. The Catholic wayside chapel of Sontga Clau, also known as St. Nicholas, was built in the western part of the village in the 18th century. After the former chapel had to make way for the Waltensburg–Andiast connecting road, it was rebuilt in 1930 at the western entrance to Rueun. The chapel of Sogn Francestg stands on Panixerstrasse; it is a Baroque building dating from 1642. Traces of a 1640 painting remain on the choir vault and chancel arch.

The chapel of Sogn Antoni was built around 1690. Its wooden altar contains a signed image of the Vision of Saint Anthony of Padua, dating from 1694. The origins of Sontga Maria Madleina are considered medieval; the earliest archival mention dates from 1672. These buildings represent several different periods rather than just one.

Another historic structure is the covered wooden bridge, Punt da Rueun. The construction contract was signed on 28 December 1839; the bridge is dated to 1839. Together with the chapels and church, it provides a distinct focus for a stay centred on local history and architecture.

Discover the natural and cultural landscape

Above Rueun, the Minas da Gulatsch discovery trail winds through a natural and cultural landscape. Interactive stations and caves are among the features of this exploration trail, presented as an option for families, nature lovers and young adventurers. The mine tunnels are also home to the rare lesser horseshoe bat. Trail conditions can change, so check them before your visit.

The area of Rueun extends across both sides of the Vorderrhein. It includes uninhabited forest areas, the Ogna da Pardiala floodplain reserve, the valley floor and the mountain area up to Fil da Rueun, which reaches 2,351 metres. Ogna da Pardiala is a floodplain reserve where rare plants and threatened and endangered animal species can be found. Numerous Maiensässe lie above and north of Rueun. They were once used intensively and seasonally as part of traditional alpine farming; some now serve tourism purposes.

To reach Minas da Gulatsch, take the PostBus from Ilanz towards Pigniu, line 423, to the Minas da Gulatsch stop. Check the timetable before travelling. Another place to visit is the Caglia picnic area, which has a drinking fountain, firewood, a grill grate, waste disposal facilities and benches overlooking Rueun and the Vorderrhein valley floor. Be aware that seasonal restrictions may apply.

Plan winter tours and accommodation

The Fil da Rueun ski tour starts on the road between Rueun and Pigniu, by the chapel of Sogn Francestg. It leads across alpine meadows towards Alp Miez and up to the long ridge of Fil da Rueun. The same route can also be completed as a snowshoe loop. Before a winter tour, check current route conditions and any avalanche restrictions.

Hiking trails, historic buildings, nature and winter tours offer different ways to enjoy a stay in Rueun. Use these themes as a guide when looking for hotels for your trip, and check the route details to match your planned activities.

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Back to the regional travel overview: Surselva.