Back in The Engadin (again)

2 days ago
2 min read

Whenever it’s Auffahrt Weekend I like to go away to The Engadin, a part of Switzerland known for its sunny weather. Each time we go there, we check the weather forecast in advance and it is invariably bad but when we get there the weather usually turns out ok. This time the forecast was even worse than normal – it wasn’t just clouds and rain that were waiting for us, but sub-zero temperatures and snow. In May. As usual though, the actual weather turned out to be somewhat better than forecast. True, the first two days were a bit miserable but we still managed to do a few short walks without getting too wet and had a relaxing time.

The weather on Saturday improved so we took a packed train over the Bernina Pass and got off at Alp Grüm. Wow! Gorgeous views, snow-capped mountains, and a snowy walk all followed by capuns (a regional delicacy) at the only restaurant in town. What a great day.

On Sunday morning we cycled part way up Val Bever. We ended up doing a lot of pushing as the route is pretty hilly but it was so worth it. It’s hard to describe just how beautiful it is – clean air, magnificent views of mountains in all directions, a river with crystal clear water and thousands of trees. We also caught glimpses of the wildlife (a steinbock, marmots, woodpeckers and squirrels) so it really was a special day. We’d done that route last year but it was definitely worth doing it again.

Not sure what we’ll do next time we go to the Engadin, but I’m sure we’ll find something special.

Anyway, here’s a list of the best bits (and some slightly disappointing bits) from this trip.

Escaping motorway traffic by stopping for pizza at Nemo’s in Wollerau
Driving over the Fluela Pass through fog and light snow in the dark
Cancelling the planned horse riding due to the bad weather
Going for a snowy early evening stroll
Taking the train to Alp Grüm and chatting to some folks from New Zealand
Eating capuns
Watching Eurovision – well done Bulgaria!
Looking at the stars from our balcony in the middle of the night
Sunday bike ride in Val Bever
Pizza at the golf club restaurant
Playing Imposter with a group of friends

Language Tip

This time it's just a reminder about the importance of editing your writing. The common advice on editing your writing is to cut out any words that you don’t need. Some writers also recommend using simpler words rather than complicated ones.

If you want to learn more about writing, I recommend 100 Ways to Improve your Writing by Gary Provost or On Writing by Stephen King.

Finally, here are a couple of pictures from the trip.