Mining experiences in Schams

Name: Bergbau-Erlebnisse im Schams
Address: Viamala Tourismus, Zillis-Reischen, Viamala, 7432, ch
Telephone: +41 81 650 90 30

The right equipment is essential in the mines

The Ferrera Valley, which is part of the Schams, already bears the reference to ore deposits in its name, with the first documented mention of ore mining dating back to 1605.

However, it can be assumed that people were already using the ore deposits much earlier. At that time, people mainly searched for non-ferrous metals (lead, silver and copper ore) but also for iron ore deposits. Some tunnels, mining heaps and the remains of the processing plants and smelting furnaces have been preserved to this day as silent witnesses to these bygone times. The Hinterrhein Ore Mines Association ensures that these can be rediscovered in the mining museum in Innerferrera and on guided excursions.

If you are ready for an adventurous immersion in times long past, this is the place for you.

Guided tours

Excursion to the Alp Taspegn silver mines
Every Wednesday from July to mid-September, there is a guided tour of the former ore and silver mines. Drive by jeep to Alp Taspegn, followed by a short hike to the entrance to the mine. Further information can be found in the Viamala events calendar.

Mining history in Val Ferrera - visit to the museum and contemporary witnesses
Guided mining excursions are available on request. There is a guided tour through the mining museum in Innerferrera and to the contemporary witnesses in the Schmelzi near Ausserferrera.

Mining hike to the ore tunnels on Ursera
On request, you can hike steeply up from the Schmelzi near Ausserferrera to the disused ore tunnels on Ursera. Good footwear and surefootedness are required for this challenging tour.

Detailed information on the guided tours can be found in the Viamala events calendar! Registration is required for all guided tours (limited number of places). Individual guided tours are available for groups on all days of the week on request, including full-day tours to the silver mines.