3 Best Sights in Graubünden, Switzerland

The Castle Salenegg in Maienfeld presides regally over the oldest vineyards in the region—and some of the oldest in Europe. The privately owned castle and wine cellar, now a study in contrasts, have been inseparable since 1068. An intricately painted portal leads through the pristine, cyprus-lined grounds to the stone-clad, arched wine “Torkel” (old winepress). Despite the winery's history, there’s nothing old-fashioned about the products—all wines are made from Blauburgunder (Pinot Noir) or Chardonnay—or the environmentally friendly ideas. Though registration is required for cellar tours, English-speaking wine tastings are available on a drop-in basis.

Fans of Heidi can visit the area that inspired the legend along the circular Heidiweg (Heidi Path). Here you can find the house that was used as a model for the illustrations in the original Heidi books. It now houses Heidi-appropriate furnishings and life-size models of Heidi, Grandfather, and Peter. You can also take a somewhat-challenging hike up to Heidi's Alp Hut, get a Heidi stamp at the Heidi post office, and meet Heidi and Peter's goats at the petting zoo.

From Maienfeld you can hike along the Heidiweg (Heidi Path), either on the short circular route or, for more energetic hikers, continuing across steep open meadows and through thick forests to what now have been designated Peter the Goatherd's Hut, the Alm-Uncle's Hut, and Heidi's Alp Hut. The short version of the route begins at the train station and passes through the cobblestone alleyways of Maienfeld's Old Town. It continues up to the enclave of Rofels, where the Heididorf (Heidi's Village) is situated. After passing through most of the attractions there, the trail leads back to Maienfeld through picturesque vineyards. You might meet today's versions of the characters, who can answer Heidi-related questions in English. Along the way, you'll take in awe-inspiring Rhine Valley views from flowered meadows that would have suited Heidi beautifully.