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Interactive Gastronomy Meets Alpine Exploration
Switzerland has introduced "Savurando," a specialized tourism concept that replaces traditional sightseeing with a food-focused quest. Managed by the Network of Swiss Parks, the program invites travelers to solve clues and discover hidden stops to unlock tastings of regional specialties.
The initiative bridges the gap between tourism and local agriculture, guiding participants through mountain towns, vineyards, and rural villages. Depending on the route, visitors sample a variety of local cheeses, cured meats, fresh bread, and wines, with vegetarian alternatives available.
The experience is designed for a wide demographic, including families, couples, and organized groups, offering a physically active alternative to standard autumn excursions.
Pricing and Accessibility
Entry prices for the Savurando experience generally start at CHF 49 for adults and CHF 30 for children aged six to twelve. However, pricing varies by location due to local operational costs.
- Standard Rate: CHF 49 (Adult) / CHF 30 (Child)
- Parc Ela: CHF 59 per adult
- Schaffhausen Nature Park: CHF 69 per adult (for groups of 1–5)
- Biosfera Val Müstair: Offers a family ticket priced at CHF 140; children under six participate for free and share parental refreshments.
Regional Route Highlights
Valais Vineyards and Rhone Views
The Pfyn-Finges Nature Park route focuses on the viticulture of the Rhone Valley. This 9.5-kilometer journey takes five to six hours, with approximately three hours of active walking. Participants explore vineyard terraces and the Pfynwald reserve. Note that this is not a circular route; travelers must purchase a separate ticket for the return train to Leuk.
Graubünden Mountain Quests
Two distinct experiences are available in Graubünden:
- Parc Ela: A nine-kilometer trek through woodlands and traditional villages starting at Restaurant St Cassian in Lantsch/Lenz.
- Biosfera Val Müstair: An eight-kilometer route starting at Hotel Helvetia in Müstair. This path highlights traditional sgraffito artwork and offers both paper-based puzzles and smartphone challenges.
Cheese Heritage in Chasseral
In Parc régional Chasseral, the focus shifts to the Tête de Moine AOP cheese. Starting from Hota Hotel in Saint-Imier, the 7.5-kilometer route takes four to five hours. This experience emphasizes the connection between agricultural production and the cultural landscape.
Accessible Exploration in Parc du Doubs
For those with mobility requirements, Parc du Doubs provides a wheelchair and pushchair-accessible route. Starting in Le Noirmont, this eight-kilometer circular path features less than 100 meters of elevation gain. Participants assemble a regional picnic as they navigate the Franches-Montagnes pastures.
Savurando 2026 Schedule and Costs
| Nature Park | Adult Ticket | Child Ticket (6–12) | 2026 Final Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parc Jura vaudois | CHF 49 | CHF 30 | 31 October |
| Parc du Doubs | CHF 49 | CHF 30 | 31 October |
| Parc régional Chasseral | CHF 49 | CHF 30 | 31 October |
| Schaffhausen Nature Park | CHF 69* | CHF 30 | 26 September |
| Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut | CHF 49 | CHF 30 | 1 November |
| UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch | CHF 49 | CHF 30 | 12 October |
| Pfyn-Finges Nature Park | CHF 49 | CHF 30 | 31 October |
| Parc Ela | CHF 59 | CHF 30 | 18 October |
| Biosfera Val Müstair | CHF 49 | CHF 30 | 17 October |
*Price for groups of 1–5 adults.
Key Takeaways
- Concept: A culinary scavenger hunt combining nature walks with regional food tastings.
- Scope: Available across nine Swiss nature parks with various themes (wine, cheese, mountain heritage).
- Duration: Most routes take between 4 and 6 hours to complete.
- Accessibility: Parc du Doubs is specifically designed for wheelchairs and strollers.
- Logistics: Many routes are non-circular; visitors should plan for separate return transportation.
FAQ
Are transport and equipment included in the ticket price? No, transport and specialized equipment are not included in the Savurando ticket costs.
Can children under six participate? Yes, in parks like Biosfera Val Müstair, children under six can participate free of charge.
Is the experience suitable for non-hikers? While most routes involve several hours of walking, the Parc du Doubs route is designed for accessibility with minimal elevation changes.
