Winter Walking & Snowshoeing, Guarda, Switzerland

High on the mountain slopes perches the most idyllic village of them all, Guarda, silently watching over the valley from its panoramic location. It is one of those special places that you will never want to leave. So idyllic is it that it provided the setting for a Swiss fairy tale, and it quickly seduces you with its old-world charm. At the heart of the village lies the 3-star Hotel Meisser, a fittingly romantic hotel that makes a delightful base from which to appreciate the magic of winter.

The emphasis here is on the fantastic snow-shoeing and winter walking – these are ideal ways to enjoy the winter enchantment of exquisite Guarda and its surroundings. From the village, you can set out directly across the slopes and snowy meadows, marvelling at the sweeping views down towards the river below and hopefully spotting lots of wildlife. Benno and Maya, your hosts, are keen walkers themselves and lead weekly snowshoe excursions.

Another relaxed way to appreciate your surroundings is by horse-drawn sleigh, and we include a ride in a neighbouring village during your stay. You can even try your hand at curling – there is a rink near the hotel. If you do fancy some skiing, head to Scuol, a 25-minute bus and train ride away, which offers 77 kilometres of cross-country trails and 80 kilometres of downhill pistes, the latter of which are mostly for beginners and intermediates. Scuol is a spa town, and you could treat yourselves to a few hours in the Bogn Engadine Spa with its steam room, sauna and heated outdoor pool.

Hotel Meisser (3*), Guarda

You are warmly welcomed by English-speaking Benno and Maya Meisser, the fifth generation of the family to run the hotel. There is a real sense of history here – the hotel was converted from a 17th-century farmhouse – and the family has created a wonderfully intimate and relaxed atmosphere over the years. The use of light wood throughout the hotel is both stylish and cosy.

Rooms: There are just 18 bedrooms, a fact which serves to increase the hotel’s sense of intimacy. No two rooms are the same – all are individually decorated and have different outlooks, though most rooms face eastwards. Some enjoy superb views of the valley and a small handful (available as an upgrade) boast a balcony. Your room may have either a shower or a bath, but all are equipped with a minibar, hairdryer and telephone.

Facilities: Relax in either the library-cum-lounge or the atmospheric bar (complete with billiards, darts and a wide selection of wines) in an annexe across the road.

Restaurant: The magnificent restaurant was once the farm’s hay barn, but nowadays provides the setting for both breakfast and the four-course dinner of delicate and well-crafted cuisine that features plenty of local game throughout the winter. A fondue is also included during your stay.

Traveller Reviews of This Trip

Guarda is a very special location and perfect for people who want to enjoy the snow and winter scenery in a peaceful environment. Mrs Simmonds, 27/12/2010

The Hotel Meisser is an excellent hotel and a real find. There were only two other English people there (from Inntravel) but the fondue evening on the Monday night in the Parsepan (the cellar bar opposite) was a real “mixer” and we made some good friends with a Dutch couple and another from Germany. It is a very good idea of Benno and Maya’s as it must entail a lot of extra work for the staff. Mrs G, Leicestershire, 05/03/2009

For more reviews of this trip, see: Reviews of Switzerland: Winter walking & snowshoeing, Guarda