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Description
The Cuelm da Latsch and its southern slope, Val Miez, lie above Bergün in the Val Tuors. From Bergün station, the beautiful mountain village of Latsch - where the early Heidi films were shot - can be reached either by a 30-minute uphill walk (300 meters elevation gain) or by bus, if you arrive at the right time. In and around the village, the Garðaskotta can be observed.
Leaving the village, you find yourself at the valley’s entrance. A magnificent mountain panorama opens up, dominated by Piz Ela to the south. The slopes of the adjoining Val Miez, which can be followed for about a kilometer without gaining further altitude, offer a varied habitat of meadows, shrubs, scattered trees, and rocky outcrops. This is the most interesting area for bird observations (only this path is marked on the map). It is home to Steintittlingur, Næfurfinka, and Fjalltittlingur, while the abundance of insects also provides for Netlusöngvari and even the Þyrnisvarri. The richness in insects - especially butterflies - is striking in summer (Parc Ela harbors about one-third of all insect species found in Switzerland). Bjargsvala are easily observed here. The clusters of trees are home to the Hnotbrjótur, while Limsöngvari and Birkifinka are also regularly encountered.
Continuing along the path, views open onto the steep southern slopes of Piz Prosonch. By late morning, as the rocks warm in the sun, birds of prey may take advantage of the thermals to spiral upwards. Depending on the year and a bit of luck, observations of Gullörn or Lambagammur (which breed in the more secluded neighbouring valleys), Gæsagammur, and even Kuflgammur or Snákerna are possible.
From here, a trail climbs another 700 meters through open mountain forest to the Cuelm da Latsch (not marked on the map but easy to follow). Its rocky dry grasslands evoke the Scottish Highlands. Here, Fjalltittlingur and Steindepill can be seen well, and with luck, some of the previously mentioned raptors too.
Details
Access
The bus from Bergün to Latsch does not run daily; sometimes it operates only as an on-call service, which must be booked at least two hours in advance. Otherwise the way from Bergün to Latsch takes about thirty minutes. The hike from Latsch onwards requires some stamina but is not technically difficult. After rainy days, the final stretch can be a bit muddy. As the slope is facing south, it can get very hot in summer. It is also possible to reach or descend from the top via Stugl/Stuls; this path leads through beautiful mountain forest but is ornithologically less interesting.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Mountain , Agriculture , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , ValleyConditions
Mountainous , Hilly , RockyCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
NoGood birding season
SummerBest time to visit
SummerRoute
Unpaved road , Narrow trailDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
The area is best visited between June and late August, before the meadows are mowed.