Autumn colours of Graubünden

Located in the easternmost region of Switzerland and sharing borders with Italy, Austria and Liechtenstein, Graubünden is Switzerland’s largest canton and No.1 holiday destination.

With an amazing range of leisure offerings, combining relaxation and outdoor activities, this corner of the world truly provides the perfect backdrop for any holiday and Autumn is a lovely time to visit. As summer comes to a close and leaves turn into vibrant reds and golds, Graubünden dares any visitor not to fall in love with the region. As the days draw in, enjoy the change of season away from the hustle and bustle of city life and recharge your batteries before winter sets in.

Outdoor adventures are the perfect way to do this and Graubünden provides an open air paradise with over 10,000km of hiking trails, 4,000km of marked mountain bike trails, mountain lakes and panoramic restaurants overlooking the landscapes.

Here is a snapshot of what Graubünden has to offer this autumn:

International Hot Air Balloon Week 1st October – 9th October - Flims: Enjoyed by participants and spectators alike, the International Hot Air Balloon week is considered to be an important part of the roots and heritage of the Flims community. Held against a backdrop of crystal clear lakes surrounded by lush greens, it is a visually stunning event, bordered by the majestic Swiss Alps.

No worries if you’re not a qualified pilot, balloon rides are also available for beginners so you too can appreciate the beauty of Flims from the skies.

For more information visit www.en.graubuenden.ch/trade/products/summer/flims.html

Alp Spektakel, 6th October – 9th October 2011 - Prättigau: Truly original and rustic is the best way to describe the Prättigauer Alp Spektakel. Yodeling herdsmen and farmers bring their cheese, all produced during the Alpine summer along with their cows, sheep and goats, back to the valley. A truly magical parade, a large alpine market, exhilarating olympic games and a children’s program with music are sure to keep the spirits high this October.

For more information visit www.en.graubuenden.ch/events/top-events.html

1st Chestnut Festival, 16th October 2011 – Val Bregaglia: During the autumn period in the magical valley of Bregaglia on the southern side of the Swiss Alps, the ground becomes laden with ripened chestnuts. Join the locals as they bring the woods to life by gathering chestnuts and traditionally harvesting them. Visitors can taste and buy local delicacies, such as chestnut specialities, wine, cheese, small salami sausages, pasta, herbal tea and honey, which are offered at the various market stands. The event also includes entertainment for the kids, guided hikes through the forest and tastings of the chestnuts and local produce.

For more information visit www.en.graubuenden.ch/events/top-events.html

Avalanche Trophy, 15th October – 16th October 2011: The last stage of the Freeride Trophy will be held this year in Flims. Over 400 bikers, including the freeride world elite, are expected to be on the starting line. Together they’ll plunge into the race and ride for the victory of the season. While the bikers test their physical endurance, your only challenge will be to not to get distracted by the glorious mountain scenery!

For more information visit www.avalanchecup.com

PACKAGE DEALS

Davos Klosters - Family Experience Package: A family of four can enjoy seven nights, half board at the superior 4* Sheraton Davos Hotel Waldhuss from £1,999. The price is for a family of four, two adults and two children both under twelve. A Davos Klosters card is also included in the price, a great perk which gives the family free access to the local mountain railways.

Offer valid until 19th November 2011. For more information visit www.stc.co.uk/davos_klosters.html

Flims – Family Experience Package: Families can relax in the delightful 4* Hotel Sunstar, for four nights, half board from only £579 per person. Staying in a superior room with access to the FREE minibar, how could anyone possibly say no? As well as all this, visitors will also receive a Flims card. This gives free access to local mountain railways and cable cars so you can venture off into the mountains without a care in the world.

Valid for travel until 15th October 2011. For more information visit www.stc.co.uk/flims_laax.html

For further destination packages please visit www.stc.co.uk or call 0207 240 4934