The Engadin or Engadine, Valley of the Inn people, is a long high Alpine valley region in the eastern Swiss Alps. It is located in the canton of Graubünden in the south-eastern part of Switzerland, with about 25,000 inhabitants. The region is protected by high mountain ranges on all sides. It is famous worldwide for its sunny climate, beautiful landscapes, and many opportunities for various outdoor activities.
At an elevation of 1,856 meters above sea level, in the Upper Engadin lays a glamorous high Alpine resort – St. Moritz. It has a population of 5,000 and is one of the world’s richest and most famous places. St. Moritz offers a modern Alpine lifestyle, hotels that set standards in all categories, top-class restaurants that can satisfy the taste and demands of even the pickiest gourmets, and events of international caliber.
Contents
- 1 Why travel to St. Moritz?
- 2 What is it like in summer?
- 3 Winter wonders in St. Moritz
- 4 Progressive the aspect of St. Moritz
- 5 Cultural and Social Events in Switzerland
- 6 St. Moritz landmarks
- 7 Other Luxurious Accommodations and Dining
- 8 So, how to get to St. Moritz?
- 9 Human Reviews of St. Moritz, Switzerland
- 10 Final Thoughts
Why travel to St. Moritz?
St. Moritz is more than just a holiday resort. Though surrounded by Alps peaks, it boasts plenty of sunny days – over 300 days of sunshine yearly. There is much to see and do in St. Moritz during winter and summer. This cosmopolitan ski resort combines tradition with luxury. It is the kind of destination that offers a wide range of unique pursuits. There you can enjoy horse and greyhound racing, play polo on a frozen lake; you can hike on a glacier, partake in the famous Cresta Run, survey the cinematic majesty of the Engadin Valley from soaring lookouts, or simply enjoy the taste of the famous Engadin nut tart you can find on every corner.
What is it like in summer?
Besides horse riding and mountain biking in summer, you can try kitesurfing, windsurfing, sailing, or rowing. Even then, you can ice skate in the Ludains Ice Arena or play golf in an Alpine paradise with four courses nearby. If you are visiting St. Moritz with your partner, don’t miss the romantic carriage ride around the lake and through the Staz forest. You can also catch funiculars and gondolas for unforgettable mountain experiences.
Winter wonders in St. Moritz
St. Moritz is a cradle of Alpine tourism. The notion of winter sports holidays was invented in the 19th century by the Britons, who certainly could not have chosen a more splendid location anywhere in the world. What happened is that St. Moritz hotel pioneer Johannes Badrutt made a bold bet with his four British summer guests: they should come again in winter and if they didn’t like it, he would reimburse their travel costs. And if they were to find St. Moritz attractive in winter, too, he would invite them to stay as his guests for as long as they wished. No need to say that Badrutt won the bet. The same year, the first tourist office in Switzerland was established in the village and St. Moritz became one of the world’s most exceptional winter sports resorts.
Progressive the aspect of St. Moritz
St. Moritz was often ahead of the times and developed rapidly in the 19th century. At Christmastime in 1878, the first electric light in Switzerland was installed at the Kulm Hotel. By 1896, it became the first village in the Alps to install electric trams. In 1880, the first curling tournament on the continent was held here; in 1882, the first Ice-Skating Championship, and in 1889 the first golf tournament. In 1890, the first bob race was held in St. Moritz. The following year, a horse race was held on snow in 1906 and on the frozen lake.
The first ski school in Switzerland was established in St. Moritz in 1929, and in 1935 the first ski lifts began running in the country. St. Moritz hosted the Winter Olympics twice, in 1928 and 1948. Skiing conditions there are great from December until late April. It has hosted numerous bobsledding, ski world cups, and many other events, including some unlikely ones on the frozen lake, such as cricket, a golf tournament, and a polo tournament. Many travel bloggers come to this place for exploring, videography, photography, and writing travel blogs. The place has also been the venue for many Sailing and Windsurfing World Championships.
Cultural and Social Events in Switzerland
St. Moritz is a destination for sports and outdoor activities and a vibrant cultural and social hub. The town hosts numerous events throughout the year, attracting visitors worldwide.
One of the most prestigious events is the St. Moritz Gourmet Festival, held annually in January. During this culinary extravaganza, renowned chefs from around the globe collaborate with local restaurants to create unique and innovative dining experiences.
The St. Moritz Art Masters, held in August, is another highlight on the town’s cultural calendar. This event showcases contemporary art from established and emerging artists, with exhibitions, installations, and performances scattered throughout the town.
For car enthusiasts, the British Classic Car Meeting is a must-attend event. Held in July, this gathering brings together owners and admirers of classic British cars, creating a spectacular display against the stunning alpine backdrop.
St. Moritz landmarks
Believe me, it is not easy at all to choose only a few, but here are our favorite 5:
Lake St. Moritz, with a trail of about 5 kilometers. The water might be a little chilly for swimming, but you can always take a canoe or a stand-up paddleboard and enjoy a self-guided trip over the lake. Not to mention a restful walk around the shore. There is much to photograph here – Alpine wildflowers, greenery, dark forests, and lofty peaks. When the lake freezes in winter, it is used for polo, horseracing and other sports activities.
Diavolezza
An excellent mountain lookout. With an experienced guide, you can hike over the Pers and Morteratsch glaciers on the way to the Morteratsch station and contemplate their frozen beauty.
Piz Nair
A mountain that hosted the alpine skiing events for the Winter Olympic Games in 1948. You can reach this 3,000-meter-high peak using the funicular and the cable car. At the upper station, you will be 30 meters from the summit and treated to a 360° view of the Upper Engadin. There is a restaurant with a panoramic view from which you can identify the lakes and mountains in the Bernina Range while enjoying a cup of Swiss hot chocolate.
Museums and Galleries
Though built as a replica of a typical Engadin house from the early 1700s, the Engadin Museum was founded at the beginning of the 20th century. It houses over 4,000 items picturing local life from the 13th through the 19th century. Across 14 rooms, you can find household utensils, peruse interiors, farm implements related to alpine living, furniture, embroidery, costumes, and other decorations. There are also artifacts excavated in the Engadin valley from the Neolithic and Bronze Ages and Roman finds from the region.
Segantini Museum
Established in honor of the late 19th-century landscape painter Giovanni Segantini. Segantini himself had drawn the design of the building, which resembles a Byzantine church with its rotunda and dome. Under the dome, there is possibly his most valued work, a symbolist triptych representing Life, Nature, and Death in Alpine landscapes.
The Berry Museum
Another museum is dedicated to a great artist, Peter Robert Berry, a spa physician and painter. It is housed in the 100-year-old Villa Aron in the heart of St. Moritz. The majority of his drawings, pastels, and oil paintings, created over 40 years are still owned by his family. The Museum keeps the artist’s extensive and culturally significant estate, consisting of notes, letters, diaries and books, music-related items, and numerous documents such as maps, brochures, and writings related to the founding and development of St. Moritz.
Muottas Muragl
It is believed that its beauty was discovered by the above-mentioned painter Giovanni Segantini. Muottas Muragl is at 2,454 meters and as if it watches over the Upper Engadin Valley and its lakes. The views are so spectacular that you could easily forget you came up here for any reason other than the panorama. It is like a natural balcony above the valley, and you can find yourself enchanted by the beauty of the scenery, most of all at sunset. You can also walk through the majestic landscape of the Philosophers’ Trail, and for the adrenalin junkies, there is the fastest toboggan run in the region.
Other Luxurious Accommodations and Dining
Luxurious Accommodations in St. Moritz
| Hotel Name | Starting Price (per night) | Services | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Badrutt’s Palace Hotel | CHF 500 | 24-hour room service, spa, indoor pool, ski rental | 5 stars |
| Kulm Hotel | CHF 450 | Golf course, spa, outdoor pool, ski-in/ski-out access | 5 stars |
| Carlton Hotel | CHF 400 | Spa, ski rental, kids’ club, personal butler service | 5 stars |
| Suvretta House | CHF 350 | Ski school, spa, indoor pool, private skiing area | 5 stars |
| Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains | CHF 300 | Outdoor spa, ski rental, kids’ club, golf simulator | 5 stars |
Top Dining Establishments in St. Moritz
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Price Range | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Da Vittorio | Italian | CHF 200-300 | 3 Michelin stars |
| Ecco St. Moritz | Innovative European | CHF 180-250 | 2 Michelin stars |
| Talvo by Dalsass | Mediterranean | CHF 150-200 | 1 Michelin star |
| CheCha Restaurant & Club | Asian Fusion | CHF 100-150 | 4.5/5 |
| Engiadina | Traditional Swiss | CHF 80-120 | 4/5 |
Other Places for Dining in St. Moritz
- La Marmite (located in Mathis Food Affairs): Known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious fondue.
- Chesa Veglia (located in Badrutt’s Palace Hotel): Offers a variety of dining experiences, from pizza to haute cuisine.
- Hauser Restaurant: A family-run restaurant serving traditional Swiss dishes and homemade pastries.
- Cà d’Oro (located in Carlton Hotel): Features an extensive wine list and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
- Hotel Restaurant Corvatsch: Offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and serves regional specialties.
So, how to get to St. Moritz?
Airports nearest to St. Moritz are Zurich Airport (229km, or 2 hours and 45 minutes away), then Milan Malpensa Airport (251 km or 3 hours away), and Geneva Airport (478 km or 5 hours away). In winter, airport transfers can be even longer and tiresome due to busy roads and snowfalls. However, Switzerland has one of the most accurate transport systems in the world.
So the best decision you could make, especially if you are traveling with children and lots of baggage, is to hire a limo service. If you wish for a private car to take you to and from the airport and drive you around the Engadin Valley, simply book any St. Moritz limo service. Edelswiss, with its diverse fleet and highly experienced chauffeurs, is at your service anytime. Our chauffeurs will monitor the arrival time of your plane and wait for you at your terminal at any major Swiss airport. He will help you with your luggage and take you to the hotel. Later on, if you wish, the St. Moritz limousine you hire could take you on a sightseeing tour of your desires. When you are on vacation, transportation is the last thing you should worry about.
Human Reviews of St. Moritz, Switzerland
“I’ve been to St. Moritz several times, and it never disappoints. The skiing is world-class, and the town itself is so charming and picturesque. It’s definitely a bucket-list destination for any winter sports enthusiast.” – Sarah, United Kingdom
“My wife and I visited St. Moritz for our anniversary, and it was absolutely magical. We stayed at the Kulm Hotel, which had incredible amenities and service. The hiking trails in the summer were breathtaking, and we loved exploring the local restaurants and shops.” – Michael, United States
“As an avid golfer, I was thrilled to play at the Engadin Golf Club in St. Moritz. The course was impeccably maintained, and the views of the surrounding mountains were simply stunning. Off the course, the town had so much to offer, from high-end shopping to delicious dining options.” – Francesco, Italy
“I took my family to St. Moritz for a winter getaway, and it was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. The kids loved learning to ski, while my husband and I indulged in some much-needed spa time. The town really caters to all ages and interests.” – Katarina, Germany
“St. Moritz is a true gem in the Swiss Alps. I visited during the summer and was blown away by the natural beauty of the area. The crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and mountain vistas made for an unforgettable hiking experience. I can’t wait to return in the winter to try out the legendary ski slopes.” – Yuki, Japan
“As someone who appreciates fine dining, St. Moritz was a dream come true. The restaurants in this town are exceptional, from the Michelin-starred establishments to the cozy mountain huts serving traditional Swiss cuisine. The Engadin nut tart at Hauser Restaurant was a particular highlight.” – Alexandre, France
Final Thoughts
St. Moritz is a truly special destination, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, luxury, and adventure. From its world-class winter sports and stunning summer landscapes to its vibrant cultural scene and commitment to sustainability, this Swiss alpine town has something for everyone.
St. Moritz promises an unforgettable stay if you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills on the slopes, a relaxing wellness retreat, or a glamorous shopping experience. With its rich history, unparalleled amenities, and breathtaking surroundings, it’s no wonder that St. Moritz continues to captivate visitors from around the globe, year after year.
So why not experience the magic of St. Moritz for yourself? Book your trip today and discover why this Swiss alpine paradise is so special – you won’t be disappointed.
