Deer rutting in Val Mingèr

Even the journey to the starting point of the hike is an adventure, as we slowly leave civilisation behind us and head towards S-charl. The expedition into the national park starts at the «Val Mingèr» PostBus stop. The path initially leads over the Clemgia, then winds its way through a magnificent stretch of forest, which finally opens up and ends in an open meadow. We continue through dry terrain with views of the Val Foraz. We soon catch sight of the striking rock formation known as the «Hexenkopf» or «Cheu da la stria» in Vallader.

On the way, Domenic tells us lots of interesting facts about the national park. For example, nature is left to its own devices here, dead or diseased trees are not removed by human hands but left to decay naturally. The animals must also be disturbed as little as possible. It is therefore important not to leave the marked hiking trail and to keep quiet. In order to preserve this unique nature reserve, the nature conservation regulations must be observed.

Suddenly we hear the deer bellowing from a distance and Domenic keeps looking out for the animals. When it's too warm, the stags are quiet and take a break – so you have more luck spotting and hearing stags in the morning. As a passionate hunter of many years' standing, Domenic is well practised and spots a stag with his binoculars. Chamois can also be seen jumping around on the steep rock faces.