Close to the source of the magnificent Rhine River - one of Europe’s more important waterways - sits the resort of Sedrun Disentis. This idyllic resort lies in the rugged canton of Graubunden in Switzerland and is steeped in Romansh influence and culture. Famous for its location near to the Lukmanier and Oberalp passes, the resort offers beautiful tree-lined areas and a character and tradition that dates back to the 7th century.

Sedrun Disentis is a picture-perfect resort with enchanting views of the encircling mountains. The strong German and Romansh influence is apparent here in the character of the 4,000 locals, who use both languages. The resort is a stop on the well known Glacier Express, the impressive and scenic train ride that joins St Moritz and Zermatt.

Popular with budget-conscious visitors, the resort offers everything from cheap bed-and-breakfasts to chalets and hotels. There are 10,300 beds at the resort, with some great deals on accommodation around low season. Cosy restaurants and bars provide enjoyable eating options, while a discotheque means the resort caters for the night owls as well as those looking for a relaxed trip. The centuries-old monastery and the folk museum offer glimpses into local traditions and culture of yesteryear.

Around 110kms of groomed and off-piste ski runs at the resort reach down to the Rhine River like huge fingers clutching the mountainside. These consist mainly of intermediate runs with 50 per cent of slopes suitable for this level. The longest run is an impressive 12kms, with the total vertical drop at the resort being 1,770m.

The 22 lifts here include one cable car, seven chairlifts and 14 surface drags, offering an uplift capacity of 26,600 skiers per hour. Snowboarding is also available at the resort, with a half-pipe for snowboarders plus some great off-piste. An additional 35kms of cross-country skiing is also available here, plus 70 instructors at two schools, offering great tuition.

The resort of Sedrun Disentis is around 60kms from Chur, the capital of the canton and the perfect place from where to experience an authentic Middle Ages atmosphere and character. For an alternative ski daytrip within easy reach of Sedrun Disentis, you can try one of the ski areas close by, such as Andermatt and the Flims-Laax-Falera area.

December to April is the resort’s ski season, with the altitude affording great snow coverage throughout. The relatively cheap rates here mean great deals, especially around low season at the start and end of the period. A regular train service operates to the resort from Zürich, which has an international airport and is three hours away.

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