On the way in the National Park: Fuorcla Val dal Botsch

In the morning we take the post bus towards S-charl to the Val Mingèr stop. It is a slightly muggy summer day and at the latest on the somewhat sweaty ascent to Fuorcla we are quite glad that the sun is not warming our backs as well. But let's take it one step at a time. From the bus stop we cross the Clemgia stream over a small bridge and officially enter the terrain of the Swiss National Park. The path climbs gently at first through sparse forests, clearings and mountain meadows. From time to time we cross largely dry streambeds.

The first hill we reach is Sur il Foss. Here we also leave the National Park for a while. It is also the last time to change the route and instead of heading towards the Ofenpass road, hike back out of the valley through Val Plavna to Tarasp. But we feel fit and even the view of the huge scree fields on the ascent to Fuorcla Val dal Botsch does not deter us. Before we reach the pass, however, the path drops again slightly and we virtually change sides of the valley. The ascent leads up to 2700 m on a narrow but not exposed path. Nevertheless, some concentration and sure-footedness is required as the path leads through a lot of scree. Somewhere in the middle we take a short breather - it is lush and we enjoy the clouds that steal the show from the sun.

Over a last small snow field we then reach the Fuorcla Val dal Botsch pass at midday – where we also re-enter the National Park. Up here at almost 2700 m, a fresh wind is blowing. Nevertheless, we don't miss the opportunity to take a break and fortify ourselves on a specially placed tree trunk, somewhat in the lee of a rock. Our view sweeps over the impressive mountains of the Ofen Pass area and on to Italy. Freshly fortified, we set off on the descent. Colourful flowers bloom on the mountain meadows over which our path leads us, sweetening the last part of our hike. Back in the valley, we follow the rushing Ova da Val dal Botsch to the Ofenpass road, from where it is only a few minutes to the Hotel Il Fuorn. While we wait for the post bus, we enjoy a refreshing drink on the terrace.

• Alternative: the hike can also be done in the opposite direction.
• Arrival: By bus in the direction of S-charl to Val Mingèr; from Il Fuorn return also by bus to the starting point
• Duration: approx. 6 hours
• Tips: Don't forget binoculars – who knows if a deer or other alpine dweller will show up!
• Equipment: Sturdy shoes, hiking clothes suitable for the weather, hiking poles if necessary, food and water for the journey