SLOPES, SAVOR, SCENERY – ST. MORITZ SHINES
High in the snow-frosted peaks of southeast Switzerland lies St. Moritz, the peak of alpine glamour and winter sports. With majestic mountain vistas, world-class skiing, and an aura of timeless elegance, St. Moritz entices affluent travelers and outdoor enthusiasts from across the globe.
St. Moritz transforms into a snow-cloaked wonderland come December, inviting visitors to embrace the crisp chill of an alpine winter. While January through March draws energetic crowds eager to conquer the slopes, late autumn and early spring offer quieter periods to appreciate the scenery of the Engadin Valley amid the tranquility of the off-season.
WHERE TO STAY
Accommodations in St. Moritz fuse classic alpine charm with contemporary luxury, from the storied Badrutt’s Palace to the sleek Kulm Hotel. Many hotels provide ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes, while exclusive retreats in the hills above town proffer stunning vistas of the lake and mountains. Find a stately suite on the shores of frozen Lake St. Moritz or a cozy hideaway to call your mountain home.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK
The engaging farm-to-table dining scene of the Engadin Valley spills over into St. Moritz, with restaurants spotlighting regional specialties. Savor authentic Swiss raclette at Hatecke or fine French dining at Laudinella. When the sun retreats at day’s end, gather fireside in a convivial mountain hut for apres entertainment. Enjoy glühwein mugs brimming with seasonal mulled wine to spark alpine cheer.
WHERE TO SHOP
From watch and jewelry boutiques to chic fashion houses displaying couture ski apparel, St. Moritz tempts with elegant shopping for those who wish to look the part atop the Alps. Peruse locally made handicrafts and delicacies at the weekly market or seek rare vintage finds in tucked-away antique shops about town.
WHERE TO SKI AND SNOWBOARD
With 350 kilometers of groomed slopes and terrain for all abilities, St. Moritz spoils skiers and snowboarders for choice. Test your skills on the Corviglia’s International Downhill course or weave through snow-laden trees on skis at Suvretta Snowpark. The sun-soaked south-facing slopes of Corvatsch promise stunning vistas as you slice through powder.
SPA AND WELLNESS ESCAPES
After exerting yourself exploring St. Moritz’s captivating terrain, unwind at a luxury spa like the Kulm Spa St. Moritz or the sparkling mineral Baths of St. Moritz, where rejuvenating thermal and mineral water soaks await. Treat yourself to relaxing massages, facials, and body treatments.
CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT IN ST. MORITZ
The century-old Cresta Run skeleton track provides a surge of adrenaline while cultural attractions like the Berry Museum and Segantini Museum reveal insight into the rich heritage of these alpine surrounds. As darkness nears, try your luck at the town’s casino before unwinding at a cozy wine bar.
ST. MORITZ WARMLY WELCOMES WINTER PILGRIMS, tempting them with snow-bright days of gliding down imposing peaks and unwinding nights basking in alpine hospitality. Here await all the elements of an iconic Swiss ski holiday – mountain grandeur, frozen blue lakes, forests laden with snow, and heartwarming gemütlichkeit – all wrapped in chocolate-box allure.
WORDS WILLIAM KEMP
FEATURED PHOTO NIR HIMI
PHOTOS VALENTIN KREMER
The “Winter Guide to St. Moritz” article is part of an ongoing series focused on seasonal travel guides. Previously, we created a set of Summer Guides to provide readers with comprehensive overviews and recommendations for top warm weather getaways.