Guraletschsee

Guraletschsee is a high alpine lake above the village of Vals in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. It sits at roughly 2,400 m above sea level (one source gives 2,409 m), entirely within the municipality of Vals, in the side valley known as the Valsertal. Hikers know it as the opening lake of the three-lake circuit that starts near the Zervreila dam.

Where is Guraletschsee?

The lake lies above the Zervreila reservoir, north of Vals village, close to coordinates 46.561 N, 9.138 E. The Guraletschhorn and Fanellahorn rise nearby. You are above the tree line here, so the scenery is rock, alpine meadow and open sky.

How do you get there?

Vals is the base. A PostAuto bus runs from the village to the Zervreila dam, where the trail begins. According to one source this service operates in summer only, so check the timetable before you go. Vals itself is reached by bus from Ilanz.

From the Zervreila restaurant the path passes a small chapel and climbs to the lake. Expect about 1 hour 45 minutes of walking.

What does the three-lake hike include?

Guraletschsee is the first stop. The route continues to Ampervreilasee, then Selvasee, and ends at Peiltal, where a small mountain kiosk serves hikers. The full loop is about 12.7 km. Published times range from 5.5 to 7 hours, and the difficulty is rated medium. The highest point on the route is listed at roughly 2,460 to 2,470 m.

From Peiltal a hikers' bus takes you back to Vals. It must be booked in advance.

When should you go?

High trails suit the summer season, when the bus to Zervreila runs and snow has left the path. Start early: the day is long and mountain weather changes fast. Carry layers, water and food for the whole day.

What else is there to do in Vals?

After the hike, many walkers head to the Therme Vals spa, the village's best-known attraction.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Guraletschsee? About 2,400 m above sea level. One source lists 2,409 m.

How long is the walk from Zervreila to the lake? About 1 hour 45 minutes. It is the first leg of the three-lake route.

How long is the full three-lake hike? Around 12.7 km. Sources quote 5.5 to 7 hours of walking at medium difficulty.

Can I use public transport? Yes. PostAuto runs from Vals toward Zervreila, reportedly in summer only. The return hikers' bus from Peiltal to Vals requires advance booking.