Canyons around Untervaz are primarily found in the broader Graubünden Rhine Valley, a region known for its natural beauty and geological formations. The municipality, situated at the foot of the Calanda mountain, offers access to impressive gorges and river-carved landscapes. While specific canyoning destinations are less prominent directly within Untervaz, the surrounding area features notable natural wonders. These include dramatic gorges and unique geological sites shaped by powerful water flows.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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"The Blue Tunnel" - blue-lit part of the fee-based (5.-) final section of the Tamina Gorge (with hot water).
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Several comfortable staircases lead down into the gorge.
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Tamina Gorge near Old Bad Pfäfers - 36.5°C, 8,000 liters per minute. Source of our thermal water The Tamina spring is not only the namesake of our thermal spa, but also the source of our healing spring water. Europe's most abundant thermal spring rises in the Tamina Gorge near Bad Ragaz and was discovered in the early Middle Ages (in 1242). Mysterious Tamina Gorge In the Tamina Gorge between Valens and the hamlet of Bonadivis, the water of the Tamina River carves its way up to 200 meters into the earth. The narrow rock crevice of the Tamina Gorge is approximately 750 meters long and 70 meters deep. Near Old Bad Pfäfers, the gorge widens, and a road now connects Old Bad Pfäfers with the town of Bad Ragaz. Deep within the mystical Tamina Gorge beats its heart: the inexhaustible spring from which healing, body-temperature thermal water has bubbled for centuries. Among others, the physician and alchemist Paracelsus praised the healing properties of the spring water in the 16th century, which is considered an acratotherm due to its low mineral content and temperature of 36.5°C. Text / Source: TAMINA THERME AG, Hans Albrecht-Strasse, Bad Ragaz https://www.taminatherme.ch/thermalwasserwelt/taminaschlucht-thermalwasser
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Fantastic geological phenomenon. After a long dry spell, the water is a bit greasy from the sun cream used by the bathers. ;-)
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Once you have reached the thermal spring inside the gorge, which can be admired through a display window, you have to leave the spring and can walk back through the Tamina Valley to Ragaz or take the bus. Or you can walk west around the spring gorge over the natural bridge, which is at an altitude of 820 metres, and over several wooden steps that lead to the eastern altitude of 920 metres, and hike back to Ragaz via Pfäfers.
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The Tamina Gorge is located above Bad Ragaz in the northern part of the Tamina Valley in the canton of St. Gallen. Between Valens and Bonadivis, the water of the Tamina has dug itself up to 200 meters into the rock for 15,000 years. The narrowest part of the crevices is 750 meters long and 75 meters deep. It is covered at the natural bridge. In the rear part of the Tamina Gorge is the thermal spring, which has water at a temperature of 36.6 degrees. From 1350 to 1969, the thermal water was used in Bad Pfäfers, in the Valens medical clinic and in the thermal baths in Bad Ragaz, for example to cure rheumatism. The water was piped there via long pipes.
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The hiking bus runs from July to September, so it's best to walk up before or after, then you'll be practically alone.
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The region around Untervaz, nestled in the Graubünden Rhine Valley, is known for its impressive gorges, ravines, and river-carved landscapes. You can explore dramatic rock formations, thermal springs, and unique geological features like glacial mills. While specific canyoning destinations are less prominent directly within Untervaz, the broader area offers breathtaking natural wonders.
Yes, the Tamina Gorge near Bad Ragaz is a significant natural landmark. A well-maintained walkway allows visitors to explore the narrowest part of the gorge, leading to the thermal spring where 36.5°C water emerges. The path to the spring itself is suitable for prams and wheelchairs, though you may need to request assistance to open a large gate for access.
The Tamina Gorge is renowned for its towering rock faces and the thermal springs that emerge from within. The thermal water, flowing at 8,000 liters per minute, has been channeled to Bad Ragaz since 1242 for its therapeutic properties. Visitors can experience the impressive geological formations and the warm, mineral-rich water. The gorge also features the Old Bath of Pfäfers, Switzerland's oldest baroque bathhouse, now a museum and cultural venue.
Yes, the Valcosenz is a ravine directly associated with Untervaz that offers a specialized canyoning experience. It's described as a narrow and dark canyon with a succession of smaller rappels and opportunities for jumps. However, it is considered to have a high level of commitment and requires prior canyoning experience, as emergency exits are not readily available.
Absolutely. You can visit Glacial Mills Alp Mora, a natural monument featuring unique depressions carved by the Maliensbach stream. These centuries-old natural bathtubs, some large enough for swimming, are a fascinating natural spectacle at 2,100 meters above sea level.
The summer months are generally ideal for visiting the gorges and natural attractions around Untervaz. During this time, the crystal-clear water in the glacial potholes at Alp Mora warms up, inviting visitors for a natural bath. The Tamina Gorge is also a popular destination in warmer weather for scenic walks.
The pathway through the Tamina Gorge is suitable for a scenic walk and can be enjoyed by families. The path to the thermal spring is even accessible for prams and wheelchairs. For those interested in a unique swimming experience, some of the glacial potholes at Glacial Mills Alp Mora are large enough for bathing, which can be a fun family activity during summer.
Untervaz offers various hiking opportunities. You can find trails that lead to and around the Tamina Gorge, offering wonderful views. For more extensive hiking, explore the Hiking around Untervaz guide, which includes routes like the 'Calanda Hut loop from Hintere Alp' and 'Tardis Bridge – Bridge Over the Rhine loop from Untervaz'.
Yes, public transport options are available for some locations. For instance, a post bus (or horse-drawn carriages on request) runs to Alt Bad Pfäfers, which is the entrance to the Tamina Gorge. For Glacial Mills Alp Mora, there's an Alp Mora bus from Trin that operates from July to September.
Beyond exploring the canyons, the region provides excellent opportunities for various outdoor sports. You can find numerous routes for Mountain Hikes, including challenging trails like the 'Wildsee – Schotten Lake loop from Pizolhütte'. Cycling enthusiasts can explore routes like the 'Rhine Riverside Trail' detailed in the Cycling around Untervaz guide.
Yes, there is an entrance fee of 5 CHF for the Tamina Gorge. It's important to note that payment is typically made via an automat, so having change available is advisable.
The Rhine Gorge, which can be viewed from trails like Via Camagna (Bonaduz – Rhine Gorge), is often referred to as the 'Grand Canyon of Switzerland'. This trail offers exceptional views through the breathtaking landscapes of the Rhine Valley, showcasing dramatic river-carved formations.


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