High above the floor of Val Müstair, on a sun-drenched plateau at the end of the road, is the little village of Lü, The name most probably comes from the Latin «lux», meaning light. For plant lovers and stargazers Lü is an insider tip. Rare orchids, figworts and medicinal herbs thrive close to the village. What’s more, Lü is considered to be the darkest place in Switzerland.

In winter Lü is home to a high-altitude cross-country trail and the start of the toboggan run to Tschierv. The 4-km-long run begins just by the bus stop and descends leisurely over the illuminated trail through the snowy forest to Tschierv. Before entering the forest, it is worth taking a moment to enjoy the panoramic view of the other side of the valley and over towards the east the impressive sight of the Ortler Massif.

Tschierv lies at the end of the run. The uppermost village of Val Müstair lies south-east of the Pass dal Fuorn and borders the Swiss National Park. Fascinating: the houses in Tschierv resemble those of the Engadine, with some influence from the neighbouring South Tyrol. Parts of the village worth taking a look at are Chasuras and Süsom Tschierv, as well as the 15th century church and its restored organ.