Top 4 Castles around Samedan
Castles around Samedan provide insights into the region's history and architectural heritage. While traditional medieval castles are less common directly in Samedan, the village center features well-preserved patrician houses and Engadin mansions from the 16th and 17th centuries. These stately homes, characterized by sgraffito, deep window rows, and grand entrance gates, reflect the wealth of prominent local families. The area offers a blend of historical sites and impressive structures.
Best castles around Samedan
- The most popular castles is Torre Belvedere, a man_made_monument that offers a beautiful view of the Bergell. It also houses a small, child-friendly museum with various exhibitions.
- Another must-see spot is Crap da Sass Castle, a castle known for its late historical architecture in Graubünden. This castle is privately owned and can be admired from the outside, offering a picturesque view from its location on the lake.
- Visitors also love Spaniola Tower, a historical site built around 1210. This well-preserved pentagonal residential tower features a round-arched high entrance and a toilet extension on the second floor, and can be viewed from the outside.
- Samedan is known for historical towers, castle-like hotels, and privately owned castles. The variety of structures provides diverse historical and architectural points of interest to explore.
- The castles around Samedan are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and over 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
Crap da Sass Castle
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Spaniola Tower
Highlight • Historical Site
The name Spaniola (in Roman spagniöl = Spanish) seems to be of more recent origin. The edge is directed towards the mountain to protect against avalanches and rockfalls, but also for strategic reasons. The round-arched high entrance and the toilet extension on the second floor are clearly visible and unique. The tower can be viewed from the outside. The tower was built around 1200, but there are no written documents.
Text / Source: Pontresina Tourism, Via Maistra 133, Pontresina
pontresina.ch/de/guide/unser-pontresina/ausflugsziele-im-ueberblick/kultur-architektur/spaniolaturm
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Badrutt’s Palace Hotel
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In the mid-1880s, Caspar Badrutt purchased the Hotel Beau Rivage in St. Moritz, built in 1872. Over a four-year renovation, he transformed the small inn into the palatial Badrutt's Palace Hotel, which opened in 1896. His father, Johannes Badrutt, had already been active in the hospitality industry: as the proud owner of the Kulm Hotel in St. Moritz, he was the founder of the Badrutt hotel dynasty.
For decades, prominent guests from around the world appreciated the hotel's exclusive atmosphere. Following the construction of Badrutt's Palace Hotel by the Zurich architects Alfred Chiodera (1850-1916) and Theophil Tschudi (1847-1911), the hotel underwent several expansions and renovations. In 1907, the building was raised by one full story and an attic; a little later, a three-story west wing was added, housing a dining room and tennis hall. Extensive renovations were carried out towards the end of the 20th century. Its location on the steep slope above Lake St. Moritz and its distinctive shape, with crenellations and corner turrets, give Badrutt's Palace Hotel its unmistakable, castle-like character to this day. A striking main tower with a pyramidal roof rises on the west side. The building rests on a two-story base of rustic stonework. Above this is a light-filled ground floor with public areas, restaurants, boutiques, a veranda, and a large terrace. The upper floors contain guest rooms, and the tower's apex houses a suite that was rebuilt after the tower fire of 1967. From the very beginning, the facade and interior have displayed a great diversity of design. The neo-Gothic motif of the facade, with its English pointed arches, continues inside the hotel. Intricate wooden walls and imposing Renaissance-style coffered ceilings, along with neo-Baroque ceiling paintings, characterize the public areas. Despite numerous renovations, great care has always been taken to preserve the original structure; for example, the original stamped graffiti on the facade was uncovered in 2006. Badrutt's Palace Hotel has been a member of Swiss Historic Hotels since 2006.
Text / Source: Badrutt's Palace Hotel, Via Serlas 27, 7500 St. Moritz
swiss-historic-hotels.ch/hotels/badrutts-palace-hotel
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Torre Belvedere
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Guardaval Castle
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Badrutt's Palace Hotel, St. Moritz In the mid-1880s, Caspar Badrutt purchased the Hotel Beau Rivage in St. Moritz, built in 1872. Over a four-year renovation, he transformed the small inn into the palatial Badrutt's Palace Hotel, which opened in 1896. His father, Johannes Badrutt, had already been active in the hospitality industry: as the proud owner of the Kulm Hotel in St. Moritz, he was the founder of the Badrutt hotel dynasty. For decades, prominent guests from around the world appreciated the hotel's exclusive atmosphere. Following the construction of Badrutt's Palace Hotel by the Zurich architects Alfred Chiodera (1850-1916) and Theophil Tschudi (1847-1911), the hotel underwent several expansions and renovations. In 1907, the building was raised by one full story and an attic; a little later, a three-story west wing was added, housing a dining room and tennis hall. Extensive renovations were carried out towards the end of the 20th century. Its location on the steep slope above Lake St. Moritz and its distinctive shape, with crenellations and corner turrets, give Badrutt's Palace Hotel its unmistakable, castle-like character to this day. A striking main tower with a pyramidal roof rises on the west side. The building rests on a two-story base of rustic stonework. Above this is a light-filled ground floor with public areas, restaurants, boutiques, a veranda, and a large terrace. The upper floors contain guest rooms, and the tower's apex houses a suite that was rebuilt after the tower fire of 1967. From the very beginning, the facade and interior have displayed a great diversity of design. The neo-Gothic motif of the facade, with its English pointed arches, continues inside the hotel. Intricate wooden walls and imposing Renaissance-style coffered ceilings, along with neo-Baroque ceiling paintings, characterize the public areas. Despite numerous renovations, great care has always been taken to preserve the original structure; for example, the original stamped graffiti on the facade was uncovered in 2006. Badrutt's Palace Hotel has been a member of Swiss Historic Hotels since 2006. Text / Source: Badrutt's Palace Hotel, Via Serlas 27, 7500 St. Moritz https://swiss-historic-hotels.ch/hotels/badrutts-palace-hotel
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A very beautiful vantage point above Madulain, easily accessible on foot or by bike (the last few meters are on foot). A fire pit and bench are located near the ruins.
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Badrutt's Palace Hotel in St. Moritz features 164 guest rooms, including 35 suites, all offering breathtaking views of the lake or the charming village center. Unique room designs and legendary service distinguish this historic 5-star luxury hotel. Source: https://badruttspalace.com/de/hotel-st-moritz-winter/
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Badrutt's Palace Hotel in St. Moritz features 164 guest rooms, including 35 suites, all offering breathtaking views of the lake or the charming village center. Unique room designs and legendary service distinguish this historic 5-star luxury hotel. Source: https://badruttspalace.com/de/hotel-st-moritz-winter/
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The Torre Belvedere is a 24-meter-high observation tower above Maloja in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. The tower houses a Pro Natura nature center with various exhibitions. (Wikipedia)
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Spaniola Castle Tower, Pontresina The name Spaniola (in Roman spagniöl = Spanish) seems to be of more recent origin. The edge is directed towards the mountain to protect against avalanches and rockfalls, but also for strategic reasons. The round-arched high entrance and the toilet extension on the second floor are clearly visible and unique. The tower can be viewed from the outside. The tower was built around 1200, but there are no written documents. Text / Source: Pontresina Tourism, Via Maistra 133, Pontresina https://www.pontresina.ch/de/guide/unser-pontresina/ausflugsziele-im-ueberblick/kultur-architektur/spaniolaturm
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Spaniola Castle Tower, Pontresina The name Spaniola (in Roman spagniöl = Spanish) seems to be of more recent origin. The edge is directed towards the mountain to protect against avalanches and rockfalls, but also for strategic reasons. The round-arched high entrance and the toilet extension on the second floor are clearly visible and unique. The tower can be viewed from the outside. The tower was built around 1200, but there are no written documents. Text / Source: Pontresina Tourism, Via Maistra 133, Pontresina https://www.pontresina.ch/de/guide/unser-pontresina/ausflugsziele-im-ueberblick/kultur-architektur/spaniolaturm
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of historical buildings can I expect to find in Samedan?
While Samedan is not primarily known for traditional medieval castles, its historic village center features impressive 16th and 17th-century patrician houses and Engadin mansions. These stately homes, characterized by sgraffito, deep window rows, and grand entrance gates, reflect the wealth and influence of prominent local families. Additionally, the wider region offers historical towers and castle-like structures.
Which historical sites or 'castles' are most popular around Samedan?
Visitors particularly appreciate Torre Belvedere, an observation tower with a museum and beautiful views of the Bergell. Other notable sites include Spaniola Tower, a well-preserved pentagonal residential tower from around 1210, and Crap da Sass Castle, known for its late historical architecture and picturesque lakeside location.
Can I visit the interior of these historical buildings?
The accessibility varies. Torre Belvedere houses a small, child-friendly museum that you can enter. The Spaniola Tower can be viewed from the outside. Crap da Sass Castle is privately owned and can only be admired from the exterior. For the patrician houses, the Chesa Planta in Samedan is open to the public as a cultural center and living museum, offering guided tours.
What is the Chesa Planta and what can I see there?
The Chesa Planta is a significant Engadin patrician house built in 1595. Today, it functions as a cultural center, housing the Upper Engadin Cultural Archive with photographs, books, and art. Visitors can experience 18th and 19th-century domestic culture through original furniture, explore a Rhaeto-Romanic library, and attend Romansh language courses. Guided tours are typically available on Thursdays.
Are there family-friendly historical sites around Samedan?
Yes, Torre Belvedere is considered family-friendly, featuring a small museum with various exhibitions that children can enjoy. The historic village center of Samedan itself is also pleasant for family strolls, offering a glimpse into local architecture.
What kind of views can I expect from these historical sites?
Many sites offer excellent viewpoints. From Torre Belvedere, you get a beautiful view of the Bergell. Guardaval Castle, though mainly a tower, provides a beautiful vantage point over the valley. Crap da Sass Castle offers picturesque views from its location on the lake.
Are there hiking trails near these castles or historical buildings?
Yes, the region around Samedan is excellent for hiking. You can find various routes, including mountain hikes and general hiking trails. For example, the 'Muottas Muragl panoramic trail' is a moderate option, and there are more challenging routes like 'Senda Val Champagna im Lej Muragl'. You can explore more hiking options on the Hiking around Samedan guide or the Mountain Hikes around Samedan guide.
What other outdoor activities can I do near Samedan's historical sites?
Besides hiking, the area is popular for road cycling. Routes like the 'Bergün – Julier Pass loop from Pontresina' offer challenging rides, while others like 'Bever village – Bever loop from Samedan' are more moderate. For more details, check the Road Cycling Routes around Samedan guide.
What is the best time of year to visit Samedan for historical sites and outdoor activities?
The best time depends on your preferred activities. For hiking and exploring historical sites on foot, late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers pleasant weather. Winter provides opportunities for winter hiking, but some paths or sites might have limited access due to snow.
Are there any unique architectural features to look out for in Samedan's historic village center?
Absolutely. The Engadin mansions in areas like Crappun, Crasta, and Surtuor are known for their unique sgraffito (ornaments scratched into plaster), deep window rows, bay windows, and grand entrance gates. These elements offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's architectural heritage and the wealth of families from the 18th and 19th centuries.
How can I get to these historical sites using public transport?
Samedan is well-connected by public transport. Many of the historical sites, especially within the village center like the Chesa Planta, are easily accessible on foot from the train station or bus stops. For sites further afield, local bus services often connect to nearby villages or trailheads. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific destinations.
What do visitors enjoy most about the historical sites around Samedan?
Visitors frequently highlight the stunning views, especially from sites like Torre Belvedere and Guardaval Castle. The unique architecture of the Engadin mansions and the historical insights offered by places like the Chesa Planta are also highly appreciated. The blend of cultural exploration with the natural beauty of the Engadin valley makes for a memorable experience.
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