Scuol
Scuol is the main town of the Lower Engadine, about 470 km from Geneva Airport, and the journey takes around 5 hours 5 minutes. The usual winter route crosses Switzerland to Klosters, where the car is loaded onto the Vereina train through the mountain to the Engadine side, before a short drive down the valley to Scuol. AirportsTransfers.ch takes care of every stage, so you stay in the same vehicle with your luggage from the airport to your hotel.
- Distance from GVA: about 470 km
- Drive time: around 5 h 05, including the Vereina car train
- Border crossing: none
- Ski area: Motta Naluns, above Scuol, Ftan and Sent
- Best for: sunny skiing, spa breaks, traditional Engadine villages
The route from Geneva Airport
From Geneva, the motorway runs along Lake Geneva, across the Swiss Plateau via Bern and on to Zurich, then east along Lake Zurich and Lake Walen to the Rhine valley at Landquart. From there the road climbs the Prättigau to Klosters. At the Selfranga station just beyond Klosters, cars drive onto the Vereina car-carrying train, which runs through a long tunnel under the mountains and emerges at Sagliains in the Lower Engadine, saving a long detour over high passes that are closed or difficult in winter. You stay in the vehicle during the crossing. From Sagliains the road descends the valley past Lavin and Ardez to Scuol. It is a long journey, but the variety of landscapes, from the lakes of the Plateau to the wide, sunny Engadine, makes it pass quickly.
The ski area: Motta Naluns
Scuol's ski area rises on the sunny side of the valley above the town, reached by a gondola that crosses the river Inn. The slopes of Motta Naluns spread out over open terrain with fine views of the Lower Engadine Dolomites on the other side of the valley. The runs are mainly red and blue, many of them long and wide, which makes the area particularly enjoyable for intermediates and families. Some runs descend towards the neighbouring villages of Ftan and Sent, and there is good freeride potential after a snowfall for those accompanied by a guide. Because the valley is relatively dry and sunny, the skiing often takes place under clear skies. Lift queues are rarely an issue, which adds to the relaxed feel of a week here.
Beginners have gentle practice slopes on the upper plateau, and there are sledging runs and winter walking trails for non-skiers. Cross-country skiers can follow trails along the valley floor, linking several villages, which is a lovely way to discover the Lower Engadine in winter. On days when you want a change, the Rhaetian Railway runs along the valley, making it easy to visit other villages without the car, and the winter walking paths between Scuol, Ftan and Sent offer wide views across to the jagged peaks on the other side of the Inn.
The town, the springs and the villages
Scuol is known for its mineral springs, which have attracted visitors since the nineteenth century, and many fountains in the village deliver naturally carbonated water that you can taste. A large public thermal bath in the centre makes an ideal end to a ski day. The old part of Scuol, and nearby villages such as Sent, Ftan and Guarda, are famous for their Engadine houses, with thick walls, deep-set windows and sgraffito decoration. Romansh is the everyday language. The striking Tarasp Castle stands on a hill across the valley, and the Swiss National Park lies not far upstream, near Zernez. Accommodation ranges from historic hotels to holiday apartments.
When to go and practical tips
The season usually runs from December to early April. Mid-winter brings cold, crisp snow and quiet slopes, while March offers longer days and sunshine. Swiss school holidays in February are busier. Saturday is a common changeover day, and the Vereina car train can have waiting times at peak periods, which your chauffeur takes into account. Our vehicles carry winter tyres and chains. Bring a swimsuit for the thermal baths, and declare skis and luggage at booking.
Planning the return journey
Plan about five hours for the return to Geneva Airport, including the Vereina crossing, plus time for check-in. An afternoon or evening flight is recommended. Your chauffeur will agree a pick-up time with you and add extra margin on busy Saturdays.
Booking with AirportsTransfers.ch
Reserve online and the fixed price for the entire vehicle is displayed before you pay by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. Your chauffeur meets you in arrivals with a name sign and tracks your flight, so waiting is included if you land late. Choose a Mercedes E-Class or S-Class for up to three passengers, or a V-Class van for up to seven with skis and luggage. Child seats are fitted on request. For help with your plans, call or WhatsApp +41 78 346 56 77 at any time.
