Exploring Switzerland’s Hiking Trails: Caumasee, Il Spir, and Crestasee
Updated: Feb 5
Feature | Details |
Starting Point | Flims Waldhaus or Laax |
Distance | ~10 km (loop) |
Duration | 3-4 hours |
Elevation Gain | ~260m |
Difficulty | Easy to moderate |
Best Time to Visit | May–October (for swimming); Year-round (for hiking) |
Family-Friendly? | Yes, with gentle paths & funicular option |
Best Seasons to Visit
Season | What to Expect |
Spring | Fewer crowds, lush green landscapes |
Summer | Best for swimming, lively cafés |
Autumn | Stunning fall foliage, fewer tourists |
Winter | Scenic snow-covered landscapes, winter hiking trails |
Switzerland’s landscapes offer a variety of hiking experiences, and the trail connecting Caumasee, Il Spir, and Crestasee is a noteworthy option for those seeking a balanced day out in nature. This hike presents an opportunity to experience the Swiss outdoors, suitable for families and accessible to most. It is pram and kids friendly.
The path is well-maintained, with clear signage. For drivers, parking is available here, and bus users coming from Chur can disembark at the Flims Waldhaus, Caumasee stop.
Caumasee: A Peaceful Start to the Hike
From the bus stop / parking area (A in the map), follow the Caumasee Trail to the Caumasee lift, where you can snap an amazing photo of the famous Caumalake. Use the lift to descend, then enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, or opt to pay for access to the swimming area (Badi). Outside the badi, you can swim in the lake at no extra cost. The lakeside stroll should take about 45 minutes to an hour. Treat yourself to a snack at a local restaurant before taking the lift back to the starting point of the trail. Additionally, Caumasee is a delightful spot to visit in winter, renowned for its stunning colours.
Viewpoint Il Spir:
Continuing from Caumasee, the trail to Il Spir takes hikers through mostly forested areas, culminating at a remarkable viewpoint above the Ruinaulta, often referred to as the Swiss Grand Canyon. The Il Spir platform, designed by Corinna Menn and opened in 2006, offers breathtaking views of the gorge and the Vorderrhein river below. Its design mimics the shape of the common swift, a bird frequently spotted in the area. This viewpoint not only allows visitors to gaze upon the young gorge, carved by the Rhine through debris from the Flims Rockslide in just 10,000 years but also offers a unique perspective on a landscape that is continuously evolving. The Flims Rockslide, the largest visible rockslide on earth, dramatically altered the landscape, creating the conditions for this stunning natural wonder.
Crestasee: Concluding the Caumasee Hike
After visiting Il Spir, the trail leads to Crestasee, marking the concluding leg of this picturesque hike. Nestled in a serene setting, Crestasee is known for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, which beautifully reflect the surrounding mountains and forests, making it a favored subject for photographers. This lake, aside from its scenic beauty, is notable for its pristine condition and hosts a diverse range of rare and endangered plants and animals, highlighting its ecological significance.
The hike concludes with a return to Flims, rounding off a day spent in nature. If you need more information about the lake, bathing facilities, opening hours, and prices, please visit the website of the Flims township.
Some other great hikes on your way from Zurich include the trails around Amden, leading to the viewpoint Chaps and the Seerenbach Falls.
FAQ: What Travelers Ask
Can you swim in Caumasee and Crestasee?
Yes! Caumasee has a designated swimming area with paid entry, while Crestasee has a free public beach.
Is this hike kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The trail is well-maintained, with short sections between stops.
Are there restaurants or cafés?
Caumasee: Lakefront café (open in summer).
Crestasee: Small bistro serving local specialties.
Is the Il Spir viewpoint worth it?
Yes! Panoramic views of the Swiss Grand Canyon make it a highlight.
Other Activities & Side Trips
Rent a boat at Caumasee (€12/hr).
Go kayaking or rafting in the Rhine Gorge.
Extend your hike to Conn and other scenic trails in Flims.
Stay overnight at a local wellness hotel.
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