Lai da Tarasp

Lai da Tarasp is a small lake in the village of Tarasp, in the Lower Engadine region of the Swiss canton of Graubünden. It lies at roughly 1,404 m above sea level, covers only 2 hectares, and sits right beneath Tarasp Castle, one of the most photographed buildings in the region. The German name is Taraspersee; Lai da Tarasp is the Romansh form used in the Engadine.

Where is Lai da Tarasp?

The lake belongs to Tarasp, part of the municipality of Scuol in the Inn valley. The surrounding terrain was shaped by glaciers: the castle stands on a hill ringed by roches moutonnées, smooth rock humps left by the ice, and the lake is part of that scenery. The former municipality of Tarasp comprises ten hamlets, and a second small lake, Lai Nair, lies nearby.

What will you see here?

The main sight is the castle reflected above the water. The Historical Dictionary of Switzerland dates the fortress to the mid-11th century, built by the lords of Tarasp. The Habsburgs took it over in 1464 and kept it until 1803, when it passed to the newly formed canton of Graubünden. Regional tourism material describes it as dominating the Lower Engadine. The lake itself is quiet and compact, suited to a short stroll and photos with the castle behind.

How do you get there and where do you park?

There is a car park at the lake, opposite the Tarasp municipal building. Public transport runs from Scuol to Tarasp Fontana, from where you continue on foot. The spot makes an easy starting point for walks in the area.

What else is there to do nearby?

Signposted trails lead out of Tarasp. A popular loop begins in Tarasp Fontana, passes the castle and reaches Lai Nair, a small peat-bog lake higher up at about 1,567 m. The route is 7.7 km and takes around 2 hours 45 minutes. Lai Nair has dark, peaty water and no lifeguard; it is a separate lake and should not be confused with Lai da Tarasp. You can finish the walk in Scuol, known for its thermal baths.

When should you visit?

Summer gives the easiest access to the trails and castle surroundings, while autumn brings golden larches to the Inn valley. In winter the Lower Engadine is ski country, and Tarasp works as a quieter stop along the way.

Frequently asked questions

How big is Lai da Tarasp? It covers 2 hectares and lies at about 1,404 m above sea level.

Is there parking at the lake? Yes, a car park sits by the lake, opposite the Tarasp municipal building.

Is Lai da Tarasp the same as Lai Nair? No. Lai Nair is a different, higher lake in a bog, reached by trail from Tarasp or Scuol.

What is the lake called in German? Taraspersee, also written Tarasper See.