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About this place
Piz Gannaretsch is a 3,040 m peak in the Lepontine Alps of Graubünden, Switzerland, rising above Sedrun and the municipality of Medel (Lucmagn). It is the highest summit of the range between the St Gotthard Pass and the Lukmanier Pass.
Where is Piz Gannaretsch?
The massif divides two reservoir valleys: Lake Nalps (Val Nalps) lies to the west, and Lai da Sontga Maria, just north of the Lukmanier Pass, to the east. Geologically it belongs to the Monte Leone – St Gotthard subgroup of the Western Alps. Do not confuse it with Piz Medel, a separate peak in the same municipality.
How do you climb it?
The best-documented route is the Graubünden "Summit experience T4" tour. It covers about 12 km in roughly 6 hours, with around 1,110 m of ascent and 1,159 m of descent. The T4 grade means demanding alpine terrain.
- Start: the Nalps dam in Val Nalps. Take the train to Sedrun (from Lucerne via Andermatt, or from Zurich via Chur), then a taxi or your own car. Without one, add about 2.5 hours of walking.
- Route: follow the marked trail toward Cuolm Cavorgia, leave it near Cuolm Nalps and head south to the summit, then descend past the small lakes Lai Verd and Lai Blau.
- Finish: the Santa Maria dam by the Lukmanier road, then post bus to Disentis and train back to Sedrun.
What gear do you need?
An ice axe or trekking poles, and a rope depending on conditions. Without high-alpine equipment, stay on the glacier's edge only. Construction work has been reported near the Santa Maria reservoir, so check current detours.
When should you go?
Plan for snow-free months, typically summer and early autumn. From mid-October the post buses no longer run to the Lukmanier Pass, which complicates the return. In winter the peak is a ski-touring objective, with a listed route of about 14 km and roughly 1,225 m of ascent.
FAQ
How high is Piz Gannaretsch?
3,040 m above sea level, the highest point between the Gotthard and Lukmanier passes.
Is it an easy hike?
No. The route is graded T4, takes about six hours and calls for mountain experience and proper equipment.
Where is the best starting point?
The Nalps dam in Val Nalps, reachable from Sedrun by taxi or car.
Can I take the bus to Lukmanier after mid-October?
No. Post buses to the pass stop running in mid-October, so plan your return earlier.
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