Looking for a bit of adventure that is close to home this summer? Then why not consider the Swiss family-friendly resort of Flims. With over 250 kilometres of hiking trails, 360 kilometres of biking trails, 11 mountain restaurants, 3 swimming lakes, a high ropes course, Unesco World Natural Heritage site and the Swiss Grand Canyon you can never run out of things to do. Flims just so happens to be our home away from home, and the following are some of the things we love to eat, do and see.
Eating Out in Flims
- Enjoy breakfast at: Ella’s best banana bread ever!
- Grab a coffee at …: The best coffee can be found during the winter season at the Freeriders Base Cafe. Located just by the Nagens lift its easy for all to access. The flat whites they are divine and so are the lovely cakes and quick bites they offer. Recommend getting there on a sunny day and sitting outside people watching. Great spot and fun atmosphere.
- For authentic Swiss hospitality:…: A beautiful location just by the Swiss version of the grand canyon! Enjoy all things yummy at the Restaurant Conn. Nothing here disappoints.
- Vegetarians feel at home at …: Ella’s makes everyone feel welcomed. The range of options for vegetarians is immense. You can find main meals to light soups but all full of flavour!
- For Date Night: I think a hike up to Stargels and sitting on the terrace is divine
- For Girls’ Night Out: Drinks at The Hide
- Dine with the family at …: When going out with the family we head to Pomodoros. Make sure to book in advance as this place is well known. Pomodoro offers a back room where kids can hang out and play or watch a movie while they wait for their parents or their meal. Alternatively Stargels. Mountain elegance with a rustic twist . feels like a step out of a beautiful Swiss mountain magazine.
- When it has to be quick and good … : I stop I grab something from the Coop and take it outside for a picnic.
- For when you need something light …: Legends Pies is a local pie maker who offers traditional New Zealand meat and vegetable pies made with Swiss ingredients. It’s great to pick up some to keep in your freezer for the nights when you aren’t feeling up to cooking.
- For Drinks: LAAX Resort has several outdoor options where you can people watch and enjoy a drink
- Grab Something Sweet at: Caumasee has the best ice cream selection
Where to Shop in Flims
- Buy your groceries at …: Stenna shopping area offers a large Coop filled with local and international options.
- Visit the Farmers Market on …: The weekly Saturday’s Chur Farmer’s market, just over a 20 minute drive from Flims, is known the region over for its fresh, local farm produce
Acitivites In and Around Flims
- Hop on a bike and cycle …: Over 300 kilometres of biking trails to explore. Flims offers something for every level of biker. The courses and camps are great for those who are looking to learn more.
- Families Love to visit: Connbachli and float boats down the irrigation channels
- Take a dip: The beautiful Caumasee or Crestsee! The blue waters and tranquil forest are so welcoming.
- Pull on your hiking boots and: hike from Fidaz to Berghaus Foppa for a great view over Flims.
- If it is raining: the indoor mini-golf course in the Stenna shopping centre
- When guests visit: have a grill by Runca or a picnic by Trut de Flem
- A great playground: can be found at the Flims Sportzentrum (free) or enjoy the great playground when visiting the Caumasee (entry fee)
- Don’t miss: The summertime camps for kids! A whole lot of fun.
- Locals Ski at: Big wide piste making skiing this year a lovely experience. All levels can be found. If you enjoy freestyle the LAAX /Flims area is known for its snowparks.
- Adrenaline junkies will love ….: The Pinut Via Ferreta and the views of Graubünden!
- For the best views: Head up….. enjoy a hike to Martins Loch an UNESCO Heritage site.
All the Locals of Flims Know
- Local Festivals not to be missed: The lovely cow parade and The Twins women’s only bike camp
- The locals eat at: Ella’s
- It is busier in: Summer by the Caumasee, especially on hot sunny days.
- The best time of year to visit is: Off season no crowds
- Best place to watch the sunset: On top of any mountain in the area
Getting Around and Hotels Flims
- Best to get around in/on ….: Local Transport, your own legs…
- Closest airport: Zurich which can be accessed via train/bus via Chur
- To avoid a traffic jam ….: Use local shuttle buses or ride your bike. I find most of the time I can walk everywhere I would like to go.
- A place to rest your head and not break the bank: Our garden apartment! Sleeping 6, our apartment has a great outdoor living space situated within walking distance of most attractions. Contact me directly to receive more information.
- A place to rest your head when you want to splurge: Waldhaus Flims is a bucket list hotel experience.
About Jody
Jody’s passionate about creating a supportive community for expats as they navigate their new home in Switzerland. Based in the canton of Zug (as well as Flims), Jody hosts hiking day trips and retreats as well as community based events in the Ägeri valley. Visit her website for more information.
