Graubunden, Switzerland
St. Moritz draws visitors throughout the year. Winter transforms the town into a snow-covered playground, known for its ski slopes, frozen lake events, and elegant social scene. Summer provides a verdant backdrop for hiking, mountain biking, and water sports on the lake, all under bright skies. This guide contains practical information for a visit to this remarkable destination.
The high altitude creates a dry, invigorating climate, historically drawing visitors for its mineral springs. This geographical attribute defines the town's character as a health and wellness destination.
The air is crisp, and the atmosphere feels clearer than at lower elevations. The blend of sunshine, mountain air, and fresh water, against stunning alpine scenery, defines St. Moritz's geographical essence.
St. Moritz’s story as a celebrated destination spans centuries, rooted in its healing mineral springs. Evidence of their use by Celtic tribes traces back to approximately 1400 BC. Romans utilized these waters. By the Middle Ages, the springs were a known pilgrimage site, drawing people seeking remedies.
Modern tourism in St. Moritz began in 1864, with hotelier Johannes Badrutt’s wager. He promised his British summer guests sunshine and mild winter temperatures. They stayed from Christmas to Easter, finding abundant sunshine and pleasant conditions. They returned home tanned and delighted, sharing word about St. Moritz’s winter appeal. This initiative launched winter tourism.
First curling competitions, ice skating, tobogganing on the Cresta Run (1884). First bob run, Olympic Bob Run St. Moritz-Celerina (1904).
Hosted Winter Olympics twice: 1928 and 1948. The 1928 Games were the first Winter Olympics in Switzerland. The 1948 Games were the first after World War II.
These events cemented the town's image as a premier international sporting venue.
Hotels like Badrutt's Palace Hotel and Kulm Hotel became landmarks, embodying the town’s commitment to high hospitality standards.
Continuous evolution from ancient springs to an Olympic host, and a global luxury and sport hub.
St. Moritz is a distinct blend of world-class amenities and natural grandeur, attracting a diverse range of global visitors. The town’s reputation is built on its refined experience, seen in opulent hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and high-end shopping avenues.
In winter, the town transforms into a skiing and snowboarding paradise, with extensive pistes on Corviglia, Corvatsch, and Diavolezza. Guest rides on the Olympic Bob Run are available. The frozen Lake St. Moritz stages events like White Turf horse races and the Polo World Cup on Snow. Ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing are also popular.
When snow melts, St. Moritz shifts to summer and autumn activities. Hiking and mountain biking become main pursuits, with trails from lakeside strolls to high-alpine treks. Clear mountain lakes are popular for sailing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. Golf courses are available. Mountain lifts transport hikers and bikers to scenic viewpoints.
St. Moritz is known for over 300 days of sunshine annually. This abundance of bright days contributes to the town's invigorating atmosphere and its unofficial motto: "Top of the World." This phrase captures the feeling of being in an elevated, special place, where the air is clear, the light is brilliant, and experiences are truly exceptional.
St. Moritz. It offers a distinct blend of world-class amenities and natural grandeur, attracting a diverse range of visitors from around the globe. The town’s reputation is built on its commitment to providing a refined experience, evident in its array of opulent hotels, Michelin-starred gourmet restaurants, and high-end shopping avenues featuring global designer brands. This focus on quality and service defines the St. Moritz experience, making it a destination where comfort and sophistication are paramount.
The activities available in St. Moritz cater to both the thrill-seeker and the individual seeking tranquility amidst nature. In winter, the town transforms into a skiing and snowboarding paradise, with extensive, well-groomed pistes accessible via state-of-the-art lift systems on Corviglia, Corvatsch, and Diavolezza. Beyond traditional slopes, visitors can experience the adrenaline rush of a guest ride on the world's only natural ice bob run, the Olympic Bob Run St. Moritz-Celerina. The frozen Lake St. Moritz becomes an unique stage for international events like the White Turf horse races and the Polo World Cup on Snow, drawing crowds and adding to the town's festive winter calendar. Ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing complete the winter sport offerings, providing options for every preference.
Skiing, snowboarding, bobsleigh, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Hiking, mountain biking, sailing, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and golf.
White Turf horse races, Polo World Cup on Snow, St. Moritz Gourmet Festival.
Adding to its allure, St. Moritz benefits from over 300 days of sunshine each year. This abundance of bright days contributes to the town's invigorating atmosphere and its unofficial motto: "Top of the World."
