Kappl

Altitude: 1,258 m a.s.l.

Kappl can be found in the heart of the mountains, between the Verwall Group in the north and the Samnaun Group in the south. Once upon a time, the area was used for summer grazing by Rhaetians of the Swiss Engadine, and for this reason several names of alpine pastures have got Romansh origins. In the 17th century, the number of inhabitants started increasing in a way that many of them had to leave this area and go abroad to look for work. Also children were sent away: In that period of time, the "Great Swabian Migration" started, which lasted up to the end of WWI.

Today, Kappl represents a popular holiday resort, able to maintain its rural origins. A vast network of hiking trails snake in the environs of the Paznauntal valley, one of the most popular is part of the Way of St. James: The trail takes you from Kappl to the Sesslad Alp and further on to the Niederelbe Mountain Hut at 2,310 m a.s.l. Several years ago, an event called "Culinary Way of St. James" was brought into being, bringing international starred chefs up into the mountains. In summer, on selected dates, delicious dishes are served at four refuges.

The skiing area of Kappl is located on the Dias Alp and offers in winter beautiful slopes. Together with the winter park at the mountain station, it takes its name from this Sunny Mountain. The winter park turns in summer into an adventure park for families with highlights such as an alpine museum, a small zoo, the Flaxi Village, a play and climbing tower, and a discgolf course.