Dürrboden to S-chanf over the Scaletta Pass
September 11 - 12 2010
Intending to go to Appenzell for this hike, we were forced to change plans due
to all the accomodation being fully booked. Little did we know we would be in
for such a treat when a hike over the Scaletta Pass was chosen. After quite a
long train journey to Davos, followed by half an hour in the bus, we set off
from the old Berggasthof Dürrboden, which was once used as a staging post
for the mule trains that plied this ancient route hauling wine from Italy to
Austria.
Starting off at 2007m, the 20 Km route took us up to a high point of
2606m before dropping back down to 1628m at the end of our hike. In order to
save a 45 minute wait at S-chanf we decided to change the end point to a slightly
closer, even less pronounceable station called Cinuos-chel-Brail!
With a bit of time to spare before the train to Scuol arrived, we were able
to reflect on the wonderful views we had seen. Foremost of these was, of
course, Bruce's new Lederhosen - get ready to swoon, girls!
Just about an hour later the four of us descended on Scoul, looking forward to
an evening of good beer, tasty food and a good bit of banter. We were not to
be disappointed - Bruce bumped in to a friend of his who was there as a part
of the Basel Ladies volley-ball team. They had just finished 6 hours of training
in the area, were on their way out to dinner. We were able to catch up with
them again, after dinner, in a great little place called the Mund-Art Bar, where
we remained in to the wee small hours!
After a not too early breakfast, the four of us had a leisurely stroll down
to the Spa for a very well earned soak in the pool under glorious blue skies.
Then it was off to the Kebab hut at the Station for another great bit to eat.
We, by the way, were Bruce, Ken, Peter and Norval.
Nearly forgot, we get to the station and see this wonderful old steam loco and it's
carriages sitting there. Then the blue ones come in as part of a "proper" train.
They were attached at the back of ours all the way to Landquart. Look at the seats.
Aren't they the height of luxury?
Enjoy the pictures.
