4.6
(394)
2,718
hikers
57
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Lai da Marmorera are situated in the Grisons canton of Switzerland, at an elevation of 1,680 meters above sea level. The region is characterized by the turquoise waters of the Lai da Marmorera reservoir, surrounded by alpine terrain and diverse forests, including larch. It is part of the Parc Ela, Switzerland's largest nature park, featuring high plateaus like Alp Flix and small mountain lakes such as Lai Neir.
Last updated: August 8, 2026
4.0
(5)
15
hikers
12.5km
04:18
570m
570m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(9)
32
hikers
18.2km
05:55
690m
690m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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4.7
(13)
78
hikers
7.31km
02:39
420m
420m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(9)
62
hikers
7.72km
02:19
240m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(7)
57
hikers
11.0km
04:27
720m
720m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Wonderful lake landscape with various benches and barbecue areas
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Beautiful lake, brings a touch of Canada to the region
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Barbecue areas are also offered here and great picnic spots with tables and benches to linger.
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A village goes underwater - Marmorera The flooding (1954): 29 residential buildings, 52 stables, and a church sank beneath the waves. A new Marmorera was built slightly above on the slope for the resettled inhabitants. On September 14, 1955, the Marmorera Castiletto dam was inaugurated. Among those present were, in addition to the Mayor of Zurich, Emil Landolt, local politicians such as Gion Not Spegnas, District President of Oberhalbstein, as well as involved entrepreneurs and officials. While the illustrious guests attended the ceremony in the high-alpine valley basin, the plant further down in Tinizong, one of the three power plant stages, was already generating electricity for Zurich. The reservoir looked like a natural mountain lake with a smooth water surface, in which the sunlight glittered. But the supposed mountain idyll holds a secret. On the dark bottom lie the ruins of the village of Marmorera – once a flourishing community that benefited from coach traffic over the Julier Pass before the construction of the Albula Tunnel, but whose citizens had been living off agriculture with great difficulty since the Second World War. Text / Source: Swiss National Museum, Landesmuseum Zürich, Museumstrasse 2, Zurich https://blog.nationalmuseum.ch/2022/09/staudamm-marmorera/
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A village goes underwater - Marmorera The flooding (1954): 29 houses, 52 stables and a church sank into the floodwaters. A new Marmorera was built slightly higher up on the slope for the relocated inhabitants. On September 14, 1955, the Marmorera Castiletto dam was inaugurated. Among those present were, in addition to the Zurich Mayor Emil Landolt, local politicians such as Gion Not Spegnas, District President of the Oberhalbstein, as well as involved entrepreneurs and officials. While the illustrious guests attended the ceremony in the high alpine valley basin, the plant further down in Tinizong, one of the three power plant stages, was already producing electricity for Zurich. The reservoir looked like a natural mountain lake with a smooth water surface, in which the sunlight glittered. But the supposed mountain idyll holds a secret. At the bottom lie the ruins of the village of Marmorera – once a flourishing community that benefited from coach traffic over the Julier Pass before the construction of the Albula Tunnel, but whose citizens had been living off agriculture, more or less successfully, since the Second World War. Text / Source: Swiss National Museum, Landesmuseum Zürich, Museumstrasse 2, Zurich https://blog.nationalmuseum.ch/2022/09/staudamm-marmorera/
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Lai da Marmorera / Marmorerasee since 1954 Sunken village and lost homeland – The story of Marmorera The story of Marmorera is a story of change and loss. In the 1950s, as Zurich increasingly needed electricity, a reservoir was built on the Ova da Marmorera river. This led to the flooding of the village of Marmorera, which then sank into the reservoir. The inhabitants were resettled, and the old village disappeared into the waters of the new Marmorera lake. The Marmorera Castiletto dam was completed in 1954, and the old municipality of Marmorera was replaced by the new Marmorera. Today, only a few houses remain on the shores of the lake, and the story of Marmorera remains a fascinating testament to a turbulent past. Text / Source: wikipedia.org https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lai_da_Marmorera
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Lai da Marmorera / Marmorera Lake since 1954 Sunken village and lost homeland – The story of Marmorera The story of Marmorera is a story of change and loss. In the 1950s, as Zurich's demand for electricity grew, a reservoir was built on the Ova da Marmorera river. This led to the flooding of the village of Marmorera, which then sank into the reservoir. The residents were relocated, and the old village disappeared into the waters of the new Marmorera Lake. The Marmorera Castiletto dam was completed in 1954, and the old municipality of Marmorera was replaced by the new Marmorera. Today, only a few houses remain on the shores of the lake, and the story of Marmorera remains a fascinating testament to a turbulent past. Text / Source: wikipedia.org https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lai_da_Marmorera
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Bivio - Access to the Septimer and Julier Alpine Passes Bivio (German and officially Stalla until 1902, Romansh Beiva). It lies at the foot of the Julier and Septimer Alpine Passes. Bivio, along with Tarvis and Luwin, is the only officially Italian-speaking village north of the Alpine watershed and is considered the one in Switzerland with the greatest linguistic diversity. Bivio is located in the heart of one of Switzerland's most beautiful holiday regions: at 1,769 meters, with direct access to the Septimer and Julier Alpine Passes. Historic paths lead through the highest village in Surses - the Romans already transported their goods here. Today, holidaymakers in summer enjoy the Alpine landscape with its magnificent views, healthy climate, and the interplay of colors of rich green and colorful flora. In addition, there are diverse opportunities for families and other guests. After all, Bivio is located in the middle of Parc Ela, Switzerland's largest nature park. This is appreciated by children eager for experiences and bike holidaymakers just as much as by all those who find relaxation on extensive hikes in the Alps. Text / Source: Graubünden Ferien, Alexanderstrasse 24, Chur https://www.graubuenden.ch/de/ausflugsziele/bivio
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The Lai da Marmorera region offers a wide selection of family-friendly hikes, with over 50 routes available. Among these, you'll find 5 easy trails perfect for beginners or families with young children, and 37 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more adventure.
The region is rich in natural beauty. You'll encounter the stunning turquoise waters of Lai da Marmorera itself, surrounded by alpine terrain and diverse forests, including beautiful larch forests. Many trails lead to high plateaus like Alp Flix, known for its rich biodiversity and small mountain lakes such as Lai Neir (Black Lake) and the Lais da Flix (Flix Lakes). You might also spot remnants of former ore mines or enjoy views of the impressive Marmorera dam.
Yes, several family-friendly circular routes are available. For a moderate option with rewarding views of the lake, consider the Alp Pra Miez loop from Sur. Another great choice is the Lai Neir (Black Lake) – Lais da Flix (Flix Lakes) loop from Sur, which takes you through picturesque high plateaus.
The hiking season around Lai da Marmorera typically runs from late spring to early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the trails are clear. Autumn is particularly beautiful when the larch forests turn golden. While some winter walks are possible, the main family hiking opportunities are best enjoyed in the warmer months.
The Lai da Marmorera region is well-connected. You can easily reach the area by private car, and there are parking facilities available near trailheads. Additionally, public Swiss buses provide convenient access to various starting points for hikes, making it possible to explore without a car.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences around Lai da Marmorera, with an average score of 4.64 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning views of the turquoise lake, the diverse alpine landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that make it enjoyable for families. The serene atmosphere and opportunities for picnics are also frequently highlighted.
Absolutely! The region offers many 'natural rest stops' with picnic areas and even fireplaces, perfect for a family break. The shores of Lai da Marmorera itself, or the picturesque mountain lakes on Alp Flix, provide idyllic settings for a packed lunch amidst beautiful scenery.
Lai da Marmorera is a reservoir, and while some visitors enjoy its clear waters, it's primarily known for fishing and diving (to explore the submerged village). For more traditional swimming, the small mountain lakes on Alp Flix, such as Lai Neir and Lais da Flix, offer serene spots, though the water can be quite cool due to their alpine location.
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in the Swiss Alps, including around Lai da Marmorera. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in nature protection areas like Parc Ela, and to be mindful of wildlife and other hikers. Always carry water for your dog and clean up after them.
Yes, the View of Lai da Marmorera – Bivio Village Centre loop from Marmorera is a moderate 7.7 km route that provides excellent vistas of the reservoir and surrounding mountains. It's a fantastic option for families looking for a rewarding experience without extreme difficulty.
Lai da Marmorera is an artificial lake created after the completion of the Marmorera dam in 1954. The original village of Marmorera was submerged to form the reservoir. This unique history makes the lake a fascinating spot, particularly for divers who explore the remnants of the old village beneath the surface.


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