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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Graubunden, Switzerland

Iconic Landmarks

These sites define St. Moritz's appeal and provide memorable experiences and views.

St. Moritz is home to globally recognized landmarks, each with unique character. These destinations invite exploration, offering stunning views and glimpses into the region's heritage and sporting legacy.

Essential Landmarks

  • Lake St. Moritz (St. Moritzersee)
  • Corviglia (Home Mountain)
  • Muottas Muragl (Panoramic Views)
  • Leaning Tower of St. Moritz
  • Olympic Bob Run St. Moritz-Celerina
  • Championship Ski Jump (Olympiaschanze)

Landmark Insights

Features

  • Lake St. Moritz: Hosts frozen events in winter, water sports in summer.
  • Corviglia: Heart of the ski area, summer hub for hiking and biking, panoramic views.
  • Muottas Muragl: Breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunset.
  • Leaning Tower: Curiously leans more than Pisa (5.5 degrees).
  • Olympic Bob Run: World's only natural ice bob run, public guest rides available.
  • Championship Ski Jump: Historic site, reminder of Olympic legacy.

Visitor Considerations

  • Lake St. Moritz: Free access, specific activities have fees.
  • Corviglia: Lifts operate seasonally; fees apply, pass often included.
  • Muottas Muragl: Check funicular schedule, especially for evening.
  • Bob Run: Winter only, advance booking needed, substantial fees.

Visit early morning or late afternoon for smaller crowds at mountain lifts. Explore quieter paths along Lake St. Moritz for peaceful moments.

Tips for Mountain Visits

  • Ride the funicular for easy access to trails and mountain restaurants.
  • Aim for higher up on Corviglia or Piz Nair for expansive alpine panoramas.
  • Moritz Mountain Railways and Public Transport Included" pass.
  • Muottas Muragl at sunset is a prime photo opportunity.

Historic Structures

  • Leaning Tower:

    Over 500 years old, it leans more significantly than the Tower of Pisa.

  • Olympic Bob Run:

    Operating since 1904, it is a century of tradition as the world's only natural ice track.

  • Championship Ski Jump:

    A historical site that marks St. Moritz's participation in two Winter Olympics.

  • Belle Époque Architecture:

    The grand hotels themselves are landmarks, demonstrating late 19th and early 20th-century luxury.

  • Public Transport:

    Excellent connections make it simple to reach all attractions.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

St. Moritz and its immediate surroundings offer museums that highlight the region's history, art, and unique cultural identity.

Cultural Venues

Engadiner Museum

  • Collection Highlights

    Authentic Engadin interiors, traditional crafts, cultural artifacts.

  • Local Insight

    Provides insight into local way of life and traditional architecture.

  • Historical Focus

    Focuses on the Engadin's past and history of its inhabitants.

Segantini Museum

  • Artist Focus

    Dedicated to Giovanni Segantini, a leading Symbolist painter.

  • Famous Works

    Houses "Alpine Triptych" and other Engadin-inspired works.

  • Artistic Expression

    Showcases life and nature in the Alps through art.

Specialized & Niche Museums

Berry Museum: Private art collection. Forum Paracelsus: History of St. Moritz's mineral springs.

Art Galleries & Exhibition Spaces

Numerous private art galleries throughout St. Moritz Dorf (Via Serlas, Via Maistra).

Cultural Centers & Performance Venues

Engadin Concerts (classical music). Major hotels host cultural events, readings, and performances.

Current Exhibits and Programming

Always check the St. Moritz Tourism website (engadin.ch/en/st-moritz/) or the local tourist information office for current temporary exhibitions, art installations, and cultural event calendars during your visit.

  • Stay informed about seasonal programs and special events.
  • Information is readily available at official tourist points.
  • Discover unique cultural experiences not to be missed.

Historical Sites

St. Moritz's history extends beyond its luxury hotels to ancient origins and significant engineering feats.

Explore the remnants of time that tell the story of this unique alpine destination.

Archaeological Context

No major archaeological sites are within St. Moritz itself. However, the mineral springs of St. Moritz Bad have ancient origins, with evidence of use dating back to the Bronze Age.

Historical Background

  • The Forum Paracelsus provides historical context on the springs.
  • Evidence of spring use dates to the Bronze Age.
  • The springs are a significant geological feature.

Architectural Heritage

Explore the Belle Époque architecture of grand hotels in St. Moritz Dorf, showing its development as a luxury resort.

Traditional Engadin Houses

  • Traditional Engadin houses with sgraffito decorations.
  • Found in nearby traditional villages like Guarda, Ardez, and Zuoz.
  • A contrast to St. Moritz's glamour.

Spiritual Landmarks

Religious sites with historical significance contribute to the town's fabric.

Churches of St. Moritz

  • Reformed Church of St. Moritz: Famous for its Leaning Tower.
  • Catholic Church of St. Mauritius: A neo-Gothic structure.
  • Both offer unique architectural styles and spiritual spaces.
  • Places of contemplation and local history.

Monuments & Tributes

St. Moritz features monuments related to its Olympic Games history and winter sports achievements.

Olympic Legacy

  • Commemorating its role as a pioneering sports destination.
  • Celebrating significant athletic achievements.
  • Reminders of the Winter Olympics hosted here.

Industrial & Railway Heritage

UNESCO World Heritage

  • Albula and Bernina Railway Lines (Rhätische Bahn) are an UNESCO site.
  • Recognized for engineering feats in challenging alpine terrain.
  • A significant achievement in early 20th-century railway construction.

Experience the Journey

  • Features stunning viaducts and spiral tunnels.
  • A ride offers a journey through history and engineering marvel.
  • Unforgettable scenic views unfold from the train windows.

Natural Attractions

The true splendor of St. Moritz lies in its natural surroundings, offering breathtaking landscapes for exploration and appreciation.

Parks and Gardens

God da St. Moritz: A charming forest park near Lake St. Moritz. Parc da St. Moritz: Smaller green spaces within the town.

Scenic Viewpoints & Wonders

Piz Nair (3,056m) and Muottas Muragl offer stunning panoramas. Morteratsch Glacier is accessible via a hiking trail.

Wildlife Viewing Areas

Spot ibex, chamois, deer, and marmots in Engadin. Swiss National Park for extensive wildlife observation.

Geological Highlights

Erratic Blocks

Large boulders left behind by glaciers are visible throughout the valley, testaments to the powerful forces of glaciation.

Mineral Springs

The historic mineral springs of St. Moritz Bad, which gave the town its name, are a significant geological feature with their unique mineral composition.

Alpine Flora

The diverse alpine flora thrives in the unique geological conditions, notably during summer months.

Rock Formations

Fascinating rock formations and diverse geological layers are visible across the mountain landscape, attracting geology enthusiasts.

Lakes and Waterways

The Engadin lakes are focal points for leisure and water sports, offering various activities throughout the seasons.

Lake St. Moritz

  • Used for sailing, paddleboarding, and water sports in summer.
  • Freezes solid in winter, hosting White Turf horse races and Polo World Cup.
  • Lakeside paths for relaxation and gentle walks.

Alpine Biodiversity

The Engadin's natural landscape supports a rich variety of alpine flora and fauna.

Flora and Fauna

  • Diverse alpine flora with unique high-altitude plant species.
  • Alpine meadows burst with blooms in summer.
  • Ibex (mountain goats), chamois, deer, and marmots are common.
  • Protected areas like Swiss National Park preserve natural habitats.

Insider Tip

The "Engadin St. Moritz Mountain Railways and Public Transport Included" pass often covers access to many of these natural attractions.

Verify eligibility for your specific accommodation and stay duration.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the main attractions, St. Moritz and its immediate surroundings offer quieter, often overlooked places that provide unique experiences.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

Discover tranquil spots away from the usual tourist routes, offering a more intimate experience.

Quiet Escapes

  • Chasellas: Charming, traditional restaurant on Corviglia for an intimate mountain meal.
  • Val Fex: A serene, car-free valley near Sils Maria for quiet hiking or carriage rides.
  • Lej da Staz (Lake Staz): Picturesque small lake surrounded by forest, ideal for a peaceful picnic.

Local Favorites & Quiet Escapes

Experience the genuine alpine life away from the glitz, exploring the region's authentic character.

Authentic Experiences

  • Explore small, rustic mountain huts (Alpenhütten) for simple, hearty local food.
  • Wander the quiet side streets of St. Moritz Dorf, away from luxury boutiques.
  • Visit traditional villages of the Lower Engadin (Guarda, Ardez, Scuol) for well-preserved architecture.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture the stunning beauty of St. Moritz from distinctive angles, creating lasting memories.

Scenic Shots

  • Capturing reflections of mountains and sky in Lake St. Moritz at dawn or dusk.
  • Photographing the iconic "St. Moritz" letter installation with the lake/mountains as backdrop.
  • Views from the train windows of the Albula or Bernina Express lines offer dynamic shots.

These spots often provide a quieter experience for photography.

Exploring More

Expand your itinerary beyond the immediate town for broader regional experiences.

Beyond St. Moritz

  • Consider day trips to nearby natural parks or smaller, authentic villages.
  • Find tours and experiences on platforms like GetYourGuide.

These trips offer a distinct, authentic Swiss experience.

Local Insights

Connecting with Locals

  • Engage with residents for recommendations on favorite spots and activities.
  • Each season brings its own charm and unique opportunities for exploration.
  • The local tourist office is also a wealth of information for lesser-known attractions.

These quieter experiences contrast with St. Moritz's usual glamour.

Traveler's Note

Authentic Encounter

These hidden gems provide a quieter, more authentic encounter with the Engadin, offering a different side to St. Moritz.

Peaceful Discovery

They are ideal for those seeking tranquility and a connection with the region's nature and local life.

Additional Advice

Always wear comfortable shoes for exploring and check operating hours for lifts and museums, especially during shoulder seasons.