Camona da Cavardiras CAS

Robert & Melinda Schoutens
Aug 27
3 min read

Updated: 6 days ago

NOTE: Information provided for this route was one way to the hut only. Reverse these to go back to the lift station at the parking lot or continue on to the other huts or connections in the area! We did this trip as part of a planned 4-day tour (see the map). Check it out. We continued to Hüfihütte for the second night (DAY 2), and Windgällenhütte for the third night.

Wooden houses on a lush green hillside with foggy pine forests in the background, creating a serene and misty atmosphere.

Overview:

It is always nice when you are hiking to emerge above the tree line. The views open up and the landscape appears to reveal itself. When you venture further and higher, above the grass line, perhaps, the landscape shifts to the dramatic. The peaks, more crisp than before, display their ruggedness as if challenging us forward. The rocks become sharper, the rivers turn to streams, and wild life stares back at us. It is humbling. A heightening of the senses with a simplification of the landscape canvas. It’s impressive how the mind, despite fatigue, seems to embrace the natural beauty. Staying at the Camona da Cavardiras is just this. A refreshing repose in a majestic alpine landscape reminding us to slow down. This is not to say it was easy to arrive to this hut, however, it makes all the hard work and effort worthwhile when you arrive. It is well worth it.

Directions: From the Golzern Talstation walk upstream in the direction Cna da Cavardiras SAC. The trail will criss-cross the river several times until Blindensee, passing several alps along the way where local cheese is made. From Blindensee follow signs toward Hinterbalm-Hütte. From Hinterbalm, head further up the valley in the direction Cna da Cavardiras CAS. At the top of the climb at the back of the valley with full view of the glacier, you will see signs for Cna da Cavardiras CAS pointing further up hill to your left as you approach the sign. The hut is approximately 750m after this sign.

Trail Markers:

Golzern Talstation - Lägni - Alp Stössi - Balmen-schachen - Blindensee - Hinterbalm - Cavardirashütte SAC

Person stands on a stone terrace next to a mountain hut with red shutters, overlooking rugged mountains under a clear blue sky.

Tip: A slice of cake and a cup of coffee at Hinterbalm-Hütte is the perfect place to recharge before the second half of the hike.

Bonus Audio Feature - Enjoy the Story!

Special Features:

This is a higher elevation hike with nice views of the Brunnifirn (glacier).
The remoteness is a great experience and not always felt in some areas of the Alps.
The higher elevation lends itself to spotting Ibex. Keep your eyes open near the glacier.
The hut staff is very friendly and accommodating.

Be Aware:

Camoma da Cavardiras CAS / Cna da Cavardiras CAS/SAC, and Cavardirashütte SAC, are synonymous and appears is these forms on the trail signage. Camona is Romansh for the German word Hütte.
This is a lot of vertical gain in one day. If not used to this elevation or if the distance is too long for younger hikers, consider staying at the Hinterbalm-Hütte. Alternatively, when coming from far away, consider staying at the quaint Gasthaus Legni approximately 2km from the Golzern Lift station parking lot.
The cellular service in this area is remarkably nonexistent. Some locations require a Swisscom Abo to link to their connection.
There is a new parking payment system installed at the Golzern Lift station, the cellular service for the payment Apps most likely will not connect. Be prepared to pay with coin or credit card.
There are two steep sections (approx. 5m climb each) toward the end of the hike which requires climbing with chains secured to the rocks. These sections were easier than expected, but still required focus. Use caution if you are not used to this type of trail section. Snug fitting gloves were good to have in our experience.
Hiking to higher elevations, and near glaciers, it is strongly recommended to wear the proper gear. Check your boots for good tread, bring layers (check the weather of course), and bring the essentials for an overnight in the hut (e.g. sleep sac, toiletries, cash, earplugs, etc.)
We recommend hiking poles on this route. Your knees will thank us.