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Things to Do in St Moritz

Things to Do in St Moritz

St Moritz Graubunden, Switzerland Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

St. Moritz is a playground for outdoor activities, benefitting from its spectacular alpine setting.

Hiking and Trekking

Easy Routes

Lakeside walk around Lake St. Moritz (4 km, flat). Paths from St. Moritz Bad to Lej da Staz.

Moderate Trails

Hiking in Val Roseg (gentle incline). Trail from Muottas Muragl to Alp Languard with views.

Challenging Treks

High-alpine treks like Via Engiadina (multi-day). Glacier walks (certified guide and gear needed).

Water Sports & Activities

  • Sailing, Windsurfing, Kitesurfing: Popular on Lake Silvaplana and Lake Sils due to Maloja wind.
  • Paddleboarding, Rowing, Electric Boat Rentals: Available on Lake St. Moritz.
  • Swimming: In Ovaverva Indoor Pool & Spa or warmer lake parts during summer.
  • Explore more activities and book via GetYourGuide.

Winter Sports Thrills

  • Skiing/Snowboarding: Extensive pistes (Corviglia, Corvatsch, Diavolezza).
  • Bobsleigh: Guest rides on Olympic Bob Run (advance booking, fees).
  • Cresta Run: Skeleton toboggan run (experienced riders, membership).
  • Ice Skating: On frozen lake or rinks.

Summer Mountain Pursuits

  • Mountain Biking: Extensive trails, e-biking (Corviglia "FLOW trails paradise").
  • Via Ferrata: Fixed-rope climbing routes (gear/guide needed).
  • Road Cycling: Challenging mountain passes (Bernina, Maloja, Julier).
  • Snowshoeing/Winter Hiking: Marked trails for peaceful exploration.

Wildlife Exploration

  • Engadin Valley: Spot ibex, chamois, deer, and marmots on trails.
  • Swiss National Park: Dedicated guided wildlife excursions.
  • Excellent for observing alpine flora and fauna in natural habitat.
  • Variety of birds of prey also present.

Safety Reminder

Always check weather conditions and trail difficulty before setting out. Proper gear and preparation are important for all outdoor activities.

Cultural Immersion

St. Moritz's cultural scene blends its historical roots with international influences, offering rich experiences beyond sports.

Workshops & Traditional Arts

  • Luxury hotels or local art centers may offer seasonal art, photography, or cooking classes.
  • Community-based tourism initiatives exist in quieter Engadin villages for local crafts.
  • Romansh is local; learning a few phrases is always appreciated.
  • Inquire at St. Moritz Tourist Office for current offerings.

Cultural Performances & Events

Engadin Concerts

Various venues host classical music concerts with high-caliber musicians throughout the year.

Local Festivals

Traditional festivals in nearby villages (cattle drives, village fairs) provide insights into local customs.

Hotel Events

Major hotels occasionally host cultural events, readings, and performances in their ballrooms.

Iconic Winter Events

White Turf (Feb): International horse races on frozen lake. Polo World Cup on Snow (Jan): High-goal polo tournament.

Mass Participation Events

Engadin Skimarathon (Mar): One of the largest cross-country ski races globally.

Summer & National Celebrations

Festival da Jazz (July): International jazz festival. Nationalfeiertag (Aug 1st): Swiss National Day with fireworks and festivities.

Relaxation & Wellness

St. Moritz has a long history as a spa town, rooted in its mineral springs. This legacy continues with modern wellness offerings for rejuvenation.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Ovaverva Pool, Spa & Sports Centre (St. Moritz Bad): Modern public complex with pools, saunas, sports facilities.
  • Mineralbad & Spa Samedan: Historic mineral bath with unique "vertical bathing" experience.
  • Hotel Spas: Most luxury hotels feature extensive, high-end private spas with treatments.
  • These premium spas are generally accessible to hotel guests, often for a fee or with booked treatments.

Natural Therapies & Retreats

Hot Springs & Healing

St. Moritz Bad's mineral springs have been used for centuries for therapeutic properties.

Yoga & Meditation

Individual yoga classes available at some hotels or studios; wellness retreats in wider Engadin region.

Traditional Practices

Focus on mineral waters aligns with a long history of natural therapies.

Holistic Well-being

Mind

Embrace the serene alpine environment for mental clarity and stress reduction.

Body

Utilize the spas and natural springs for physical rejuvenation and muscle relaxation.

Spirit

Connect with nature and the peaceful atmosphere for spiritual renewal.

Entertainment & Nightlife

St. Moritz offers a nightlife and entertainment scene, especially active during the high winter season, catering to diverse preferences.

Live Music & Performance Venues

  • Luxury hotels (King's Club at Badrutt's Palace, Dracula Club at Kulm Hotel) host live music or DJ nights.
  • Smaller bars might have occasional live performances.
  • Cultural events, including performances, often take place in hotel ballrooms.
  • Check local event listings for specific dates and venues.

Nightclubs & Dancing

King's Club

One of the most famous and exclusive nightclubs in the Alps, known for its glamorous atmosphere.

Dracula Club

A private, members-only club, generally accessible to Kulm Hotel guests and members.

Local Bars & Pubs

Other smaller bars and pubs around St. Moritz Dorf offer a more accessible nightlife scene.

Casino St. Moritz

Offers late-night gaming and entertainment for those seeking a thrill beyond the clubs.

Hotel Bars & Lounges

Many hotel bars stay open late, especially on weekends during high season, offering a refined setting for drinks.

Bar Districts

The main concentration of bars is in St. Moritz Dorf, specifically around Via Maistra and Via Serlas, allowing for easy exploration.

Dress Code Note

Exclusive venues like King's Club may enforce strict dress codes. Check their websites or inquire ahead to ensure entry.

Shopping & Markets

St. Moritz is a destination for high-end shopping, but also has opportunities for local crafts and souvenirs.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • St. Moritz does not have large, traditional daily markets or bazaars.
  • Smaller seasonal markets, like a Christmas market in December, may appear.
  • Occasional farmers' markets offer fresh produce and regional specialties.
  • Some small shops sell local Engadin crafts, wood carvings, and textiles.

Souvenir Selection

Culinary Delights

Bündner Nusstorte and high-quality artisanal Swiss chocolates are popular edible souvenirs.

Local Produce

Bündnerfleisch (air-dried beef) and local alpine cheeses make excellent culinary gifts.

Swiss Icons

A practical Victorinox Swiss Army Knife or decorative cowbells are iconic Swiss souvenirs.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • Via Serlas is the "Bond Street of the Alps," famed for high-end retail.
  • Major international designer brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Cartier have boutiques.
  • High-end jewelers and watchmakers are prominently featured.
  • Luxury skiwear and outdoor brands are well represented.

Fashion & Accessories

  • Explore the latest collections from renowned fashion houses.
  • Find exclusive accessories and bespoke items.
  • Via Serlas provides a concentrated luxury shopping experience.
  • Personal shoppers often available at larger stores.

Sports & Outdoor Gear

  • Specialized shops for ski and snowboard equipment.
  • Outdoor brands for hiking, cycling, and general alpine activities.
  • Rental options for various sports gear also available.
  • Expert advice from local retailers.

Ethical & Practical Shopping

Ethical Guidelines
  • Purchase local products to support the regional economy and traditional craftsmanship.
  • Be mindful of item provenance, specifically for furs or exotic animal goods.
  • Consider sustainable and ethically sourced goods.
Shipping & Customs
  • Many luxury retailers arrange international shipping for large or valuable purchases.
  • Non-EU residents can claim a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund on purchases over CHF 300.
  • Ask for a Global Blue or Planet Tax Free form and present goods, receipt, and passport at customs for validation.

VAT Refund Tip

Ensure you obtain the correct tax-free forms from the retailer at the time of purchase. Present them, along with the goods and your passport, to customs upon departure from Switzerland (or the last EU country if connecting) for your refund.

Activity Planning Summary

Considerations

  • Seasonality: Activities vary greatly between winter and summer.
  • Physical Level: Choose activities matching your fitness and experience.
  • Budget: Some activities (e.g., bobsleigh rides) have higher costs.
  • Interests: Focus on outdoor thrills, cultural events, or wellness.

Maximizing Your Visit

  • Pre-book popular activities, especially during peak season.
  • Utilize the "Engadin St. Moritz Mountain Railways and Public Transport Included" pass.
  • Explore options on GetYourGuide for diverse experiences.
  • Stay flexible, allowing for spontaneous discoveries or weather-dependent changes.