Chastè Peninsula

«Chastè» translates to «castle» in Romansh. This is no coincidence and in fact points to the existence of a castle complex. Today, however, very little is known about this castle, as there are no documentary records and the sparse remains of the walls make it difficult to obtain more precise details. However, it is assumed that the castle was of strategic importance in the Middle Ages, as movements on the lake route and on the left bank route could be easily monitored. The castle area was also protected by steep rocky slopes. At the very top, faint traces of a tower-like rectangular building can be recognized and the entrance to this building is assumed to have been on the east side.

Autumn is characterized by spectacular colours: Before the numerous larch trees of the Engadin shed their needles, they turn a bright golden colour. The «golden autumn» is a fascinating natural spectacle that attracts people from all over. A visit to Chastè in the early morning is particularly beautiful due to the good light conditions. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of a «Silserkugel» in autumn. The needles of the larch trees along the lake either fall directly into Lake Sils or are carried there by the wind. When a wave catches a small pile of floating needles and carries them away, the swirling water movement can turn the needles at the bottom, creating a ball-shaped structure. The size of the resulting ball varies depending on the amount of detached needle material.

The black ice, which lies mystically on the lake and reveals a mysterious world beneath the surface, is at least as great a natural phenomenon. Very low temperatures and no snow fall are required to experience this phenomenon. Only then a layer of crystal-clear ice will form. Therefore, there is no guarantee that this will happen every year, in fact, it is rather rare. But when it happens, it usually occurs between the end of December and mid-January. Chastè is an ideal place to watch and listen to the black ice. ATTENTION, black ice may be beautiful, but it is also very deceptive. Visitors always enter at their own risk. Read the behavioural tips from Engadin Tourismus AG.

As soon as the layer of ice is strong enough and there is enough snow, Lake Sils becomes a paradise for cross-country skiing and winter hiking. From Chastè, you can walk or skate to Isola, Plaun da Lej or all the way to Maloja - always towards the sun.