We had heard that Magic Wood was somewhere on the Swiss side of the Splugen pass. We thought this was enough to go on, it wasn’t. 3 days later we were better prepared. The guys from Arcteryx had given us directions; “follow the signs for Avers” they said, and we did.
The first thing you should know about the Magic Wood is that there is a river between you and it. Unless you want to get wet, take a harness and use the conveniently provided cables to slide across to the opposite shore. Avoid using your best karabiners, they are made from soft metal! Once established just wander around in the woods discovering the boulders. You don’t need the guide, but you can get it from the hotel further up the valley.
The woods themselves are really beautiful. The ground is covered in soft vegetation, but watch your step, you wouldn’t want to fall down some of the massive holes between rocks. A lot of the climbs are in the higher grades and there are many high-balls to go at. If that’s your thing take a big crash mat.
It stays cool even during the summer, and better still there is a free campsite. This has been provided to avoid access issues and it seems to be working well. But as the locals plead, please please please only use the campground provided. No wild camping or shitting in the woods.