What Main Road 28 Is
Main Road 28 (Hauptstrasse 28) crosses the heart of Graubünden (Grisons), Switzerland’s largest and most mountainous canton. The approximately 100-kilometer route links Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city, with Davos, Klosters, Susch and Zernez, continues through the Engadine valley and stretches towards the Italian border.
The road leads through alpine scenery and multilingual communities, with access to historic towns, natural landmarks and the Swiss National Park. Highlights along the way include Chur’s medieval streets and cathedral, the Flüela Pass, the UNESCO-listed Albula Railway and Landwasser Viaduct, the Kirchner Museum in Davos, and St. Moritz. Regional specialties such as Capuns and Bündnerfleisch are part of the journey too.
The route is accessible year-round. The Flüela Pass is generally open in summer and early autumn; in winter, the Vereina Tunnel provides connectivity for vehicles.
For planning and updates, see Official Grisons Tourism website, Chur Cathedral Visitor Information, and the Swiss National Park.
History
Chur is Switzerland’s oldest city. Its historic old town includes the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, a Romanesque-Gothic landmark built between the 12th and 15th centuries. The cathedral contains significant frescoes, a baroque altar and a celebrated organ, and remains an important religious and cultural site.
Landquart Castle dates to the 13th century and overlooks the Prättigau valley. The Vereina Tunnel, which has provided year-round rail transport for vehicles since 1999, maintains winter connectivity between the Lower Engadine and other areas.
What to See
Towns and cultural sites
Chur has a well-preserved old town, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, the Rätisches Museum and the Bündner Kunstmuseum. It is also the starting point for scenic rail journeys such as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express. Historical walks are available, and guided tours are offered in the city.
Davos is known for winter sports, international conferences and hiking. The Kirchner Museum features works by the German expressionist. The Schatzalp funicular and nearby ski areas offer outdoor activities throughout the year.
Klosters is known for its traditional chalets and royal associations. It offers summer hiking and the Madrisa Land family ski area.
In the Engadine, Samedan, Pontresina and St. Moritz offer different points of interest. Pontresina is a gateway to Morteratsch Glacier and the Bernina Express. St. Moritz has an Engadine Museum and guided tours exploring its Olympic heritage and winter sport history.
Railways, pass and villages
The UNESCO-listed Albula Railway features the Landwasser Viaduct, which can be seen year-round from trails starting in Filisur and Bergün. The Bergün Railway Museum is another stop along the route.
The Flüela Pass reaches 2,383 meters (7,818 feet). Its sweeping views make it a highlight for motorists, hikers and photographers; the summit is also a notable photographic location.
Susch and Zernez serve as gateways to the Swiss National Park, where visitors can explore well-marked hiking trails and observe Alpine wildlife. Panoramic overlooks near Zernez are also popular photographic spots.
Nature and outdoor activities
The Rhine Gorge (Ruinaulta), known as the Swiss Grand Canyon, offers hiking and rafting. Visitor centers provide maps.
The Muottas Muragl Panorama Trail is 7 kilometers long and offers panoramic views. A funicular provides access.
The Jöri Lakes near Davos are reached by challenging high-alpine treks. Guided hikes are available in summer.
Paragliding flights are available in Flims-Laax, and Lenzerheide is a mountain-biking destination. Hiking, winter sports and other outdoor activities are available across the region.
Architecture, churches and castles
The Engadine showcases Romansh culture and houses decorated with sgraffito. Guided tours are available in select villages. Romansh is visible throughout the region, especially in the Engadine and Surselva, and cultural centers offer language workshops.
Historic religious and architectural sites include the Church of St. Martin in Chur, the Church of St. Lorenzo in Soglio and Schloss Tarasp near Scuol. Guided tours of Schloss Tarasp operate seasonally.
Food, events and traditions
Graubünden’s cuisine includes Capuns, Bündnerfleisch and Maluns, served in mountain huts and traditional restaurants. Churer Röteli cherry liqueur and Pfirsichsteine pastries are local favorites. Mountain huts offer seasonal menus; reservations are recommended during peak periods.
Cultural events include Chalandamarz, the Engadin spring festival on March 1st, and Alpine cattle descents in September–October. Weekly markets take place in Chur and St. Moritz on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Practical Visiting Information
Route and transport
The road passes through valleys and over the Flüela Pass. Regional trains and buses connect the main towns, and local connections serve other towns. Chur and Davos are accessible by train and bus. The Vereina Tunnel provides year-round rail transport for vehicles.
The Flüela Pass is typically open June–October, depending on snow conditions. Winter tires or chains are recommended from November–April.
Opening hours, tickets and access
Chur Cathedral
- April–October: Daily, 9:00–18:00.
- November–March: Monday–Saturday, 10:00–16:00; closed Sundays.
- One listing gives guided tours for CHF 8. The detailed visitor information lists admission as CHF 8 for adults, CHF 6 for seniors and free for students and children under 18. Guided tours are listed at CHF 10, with advance booking recommended.
- Tickets are available onsite or online. Guided tours are available in English and German.
- Wheelchair access is via ramps; audio guides are available in four languages. Photography is allowed, but flash and tripods are not.
- Regular organ and choir concerts take place in summer and Advent.
- Chur Cathedral
Other museums and attractions
- Bündner Kunstmuseum, Chur Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00; tickets CHF 12 for adults.
- Rätisches Museum, Chur Daily, 10:00–17:00; free admission.
- Bergün Railway Museum May–October, Wednesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00; tickets CHF 7. See the Bergün Railway Museum.
- Kirchner Museum, Davos Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00; tickets CHF 12.
- Schatzalp Funicular Daily; CHF 15 round trip.
- Madrisa Land, Klosters CHF 45 in winter.
- Samedan Mineral Baths Year-round, 9:00–21:00; CHF 20 for adults.
- Engadine Museum, St. Moritz Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00; tickets CHF 10.
Natural attractions and activities
- Muottas Muragl Panorama Trail Open May–October; funicular access costs CHF 18 round trip.
- Rhine Gorge rafting Guided rafting starts at CHF 60.
- Jöri Lakes Guided hikes start at CHF 50 per person in summer.
- Paragliding in Flims-Laax Flights start at CHF 150.
Landquart Castle
- April–October, Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00; closed Mondays.
- Tickets cost CHF 10 for adults and CHF 7 for seniors and students; children under 16 enter free. Purchase tickets online or onsite.
- Guided tours are daily at 11:00 and 15:00; advance booking is suggested.
- Landquart station is a 10-minute walk from the castle. It is accessible by car from Main Road 28, with parking nearby, and local buses stop close to the castle. See the VBD schedule.
- Wheelchair access is available to the entrance and selected exhibits; accessible parking and public transport are available.
- Onsite experiences include the castle grounds, museum exhibits, panoramic photography and seasonal events.
- Visit the Landquart Tourism website.
There are no entrance fees for Main Road 28 itself. Separate tickets may be required for attractions such as the Swiss National Park. Restaurants, mountain inns and visitor centers serve the route; multilingual guides and brochures are frequently available in major towns.
Tips
- Summer and early autumn are ideal for the open Flüela Pass and alpine blooms.
- Drivers should equip their vehicles for mountain roads; cyclists should expect challenging ascents and descents, and weather can change quickly.
- June–September is the best time for hiking; December–March is best for skiing.
- Book accommodation early during high season. Options range from luxury hotels to guesthouses.
- Public transport and digital guides can help minimize environmental impact. The region supports sustainable tourism initiatives and accessibility.
Nearby Places
- The Landwasser Viaduct is near Filisur, and trails to the viaduct start in Filisur and Bergün.
- Landquart Castle overlooks the Prättigau valley and is accessible from Main Road 28.
- The Rhine Gorge offers hiking and rafting.
- Flims-Laax offers paragliding, while Lenzerheide is a mountain-biking destination.
- Near Chur, visitors can explore Chur Old Town and the Rhaetian Railway Museum, as well as local restaurants serving specialties such as Capuns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there entrance fees for Main Road 28?
No. There are no entrance fees for the road itself. Separate tickets may be required for attractions such as the Swiss National Park.
Is Main Road 28 suitable for cycling?
Yes, but the terrain is challenging and weather can change quickly.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours are available in major towns and for specific attractions, including historical walks in Chur and tours in Davos and throughout the Engadine.
How can I get to Main Road 28 by public transport?
Chur and Davos are accessible by train and bus, with local connections to other towns.