Recommended as a must-see before leaving the area, Guarda was our next stop after leaving Lavin.

After a few switchbacks that wound the way up a grassy slope, we arrived at a village, literally out of a storybook.  This tiny village inspired the design of the main character’s home in his first childrens book, published in 1945, A Bell for Ursli: A Story from the Engadine in Switzerland by author/ illustrator Alois Carigiet.

The ancient tradition of Chalandamarz , the chasing away of winter with large bells is observed here, the tradition the book, A Bell for Ursli: A Story from the Engadine in Switzerland is based on!

What makes the homes so unique, and Alois Carigiet’s inspiration are the gorgeous facades painted from the first half of the 17th century!

One more little bit of information is this village was awarded the Wakker Prize for the preservation of its architectural heritage in 1975.

This village was another surprise gem during our drive through Switzerland!!

Next stop…..France!

Love, Stephanie xoxo