Summary of Best Attractions in St. Moritz
In the eastern Alps’ Engadin Valley, St. Moritz is a distinguished mountain resort recognized for its luxury and historic wealth. The early popularity of St. Moritz can be attributed to British aristocrats, whose influence remains evident in the exclusive membership clubs, such as the men-only Cresta Skeleton Run.
St. Moritz is a unique destination where polo takes place on a frozen lake, and apartment buildings are crafted by renowned architect Norman Foster. This resort has a rich sporting legacy, having hosted the Winter Olympics in 1928 and 1948, in addition to featuring the oldest bobsleigh run in the world. With 350 kilometers of ski slopes nearby, and during summer, visitors can use gondolas and funiculars to experience the mountains in a memorable way—whether by hiking on a glacier or taking in the breathtaking views of the Engadin Valley from remarkable vantage points.
Let’s delve into the premier attractions in St. Moritz:
1. Muottas Muragl
This 20-minute funicular ride leads to a viewpoint on the southern side of Blais da Muottas.
At an elevation of 2,454 meters, Muottas Muragl offers a natural balcony overlooking the Upper Engadin Valley and its lakes.
It is said that this spacious viewpoint was first identified by painter Giovanni Segantini, whom we will return to later.
The stunning scenery enhances the dining experience, especially at sunset; therefore, if you are inclined towards luxury, consider reserving a table at the panoramic restaurant.
While immersed in the beauty of the lookout, it is easy to overlook the variety of activities available from the station at Muottas Muragl.
One of the main attractions is the swiftest toboggan track in Switzerland, descending 718 meters over a distance of 4.2 kilometers, featuring thrilling turns.
2. Piz Nair
Take the funicular followed by the cable car to reach this 3,000-meter peak to the west of the resort.
At the upper station, you will be a mere 30 meters from the summit and can enjoy a hot chocolate at the panoramic restaurant.
From this point, you are afforded a 360° view of the Upper Engadin; with a map or phone, you can identify the various lakes and mountains in the Bernina Range.
The steep drop at Piz Nair Wall offers a challenging start for skiers; the downhill events during the 1948 Olympics were conducted here, and it has hosted the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships multiple times, the latest being in 2017.
3. Lake St. Moritz
During warm weather, one of the finest free activities in St. Moritz is a leisurely walk around the shores of the resort’s lake.
The trail is approximately five kilometers long and takes between one to two hours, depending on how frequently you stop to capture the beauty of the greenery, Alpine wildflowers, dark forests, and the imposing Piz Rosatsch peak.
Although the water might be too cool for swimming, visitors can rent a stand-up paddleboard or canoe for an independent exploration of the lake.
In winter, when the lake freezes, its surface is transformed into a polo arena, along with hosting horseracing events on three weekends each February.
4. Segantini Museum
The late-19th century landscape artist Giovanni Segantini resided in St. Moritz until his death in 1899. Over the preceding 20 years, he created an extensive collection of artworks depicting rural scenes throughout the Engadin region.
The museum dedicated to him was established within a decade of his passing and houses around 50 of his paintings spanning all periods of his career.
The building was constructed based on Segantini’s own designs and resembles a Byzantine church with its rotundas and domes.
Under the dome is perhaps Segantini’s most significant piece, a symbolist triptych that represents Life, Nature, and Death within Alpine landscapes.
5. Bernina Express
St. Moritz serves as a midway point on a train journey between Chur and Tirano, widely regarded as one of the most picturesque train rides globally.
Travelers can embark in either direction from St. Moritz, with an option for panoramic carriages that provide expansive views of the Bernina Range for a slight additional fee.
For those visiting during winter, the trip from St. Moritz to Tirano is particularly enchanting, featuring the Bernina Pass and spectacular vistas of Piz Bernina, the highest peak within the Eastern Alps.
Consider also traveling in spring to witness the striking contrast between snow-capped elevations and verdant valleys.
6. Diavolezza
A combination of train and gondola will transport you to another remarkable mountain viewpoint.
Ensure to dress warmly, as even during summer, snow may be present at this elevation while you admire the frozen splendor of the Pers and Morteratsch Glaciers.
For many, Diavolezza marks the beginning of a memorable hike or climbing expedition.
You can traverse both glaciers en route to the Morteratsch station, but an experienced guide is necessary for safety.
Aspiring mountaineers can opt to ascend Piz Palü, nearing 4,000 meters, while casual walkers might choose to conquer the smaller Munt Pers and enjoy a lifetime picnic.
7. Lake Staz
Located east of Lake St. Moritz, this lake is more suitable for swimming during the summer months.
As a shallow moor lake, Staz heats up nicely in July and August and features a small, well-maintained beach area with wooden jetties.
A quaint restaurant is situated a few meters from the shore, and many visitors bring their own food to barbecue alongside the lake.
The walk leading to the lake is equally enjoyable, on a gentle trail through the larch and pine Staz forest.
8. Piz Corvatsch
Following a couple of quick gondola rides, you will arrive at the highest point accessible by transportation in the St. Moritz area.
This peak, situated on the south side of the Engadin Valley, features a north-facing slope that remains snow-covered throughout winter.
From the station, you can gaze down at the lakes on the valley floor while being captivated by the panoramic view of Piz Palü, Piz Bernina, and Piz Roseg.
However, perhaps the most compelling reason to undertake this journey is the Corvatsch Glacier Walk, which permits you to step onto the glacier without the need for a guide.
9. Olympic Bobrun
For those intrigued by the Winter Olympics and curious to experience bobsleighing firsthand, St. Moritz is home to the world’s oldest track.
The St. Moritz-Celerina Olympic Bobrun was established in 1904 for British tourists and has hosted the bobsleigh competitions during the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympics.
Moreover, it is the only naturally refrigerated run globally.
The track extends just over 1.7 kilometers; by making an advance reservation, you can enjoy a thrilling, high-speed ride in a sleigh with two professional pilots.
One individual will steer at the front while another manages the brakes.
As you speed down, you will hear the pair communicating as they would in an official Olympic run.
10. Engadiner Museum
This museum, established at the beginning of the 20th century, delves into the history and culture of the Engadin Valley.
While the museum building appears historic, it was intentionally constructed when the attraction was founded, reflecting the architectural styles prevalent in the valley during the 16th and 17th centuries.
Across 14 rooms, visitors can explore traditional furniture, decorations, and interiors.
Notably, several of these rooms have been transported in their entirety, such as the wood-panelled interior of a Late-Gothic inn from Savognin, dating back to 1579.
11. Leaning Tower
More than just an architectural curiosity, the 33-meter-high Leaning Tower has served as the town’s emblem for centuries, meriting a brief visit and photograph.
With a tilt of 5.5%, which exceeds that of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, this structure was originally part of the Church of St. Mauritius and dates back to the 1570s.
During the 1890s, the nave was demolished, and in that same decade, the bells were removed in an attempt to rectify the tilt.
12. Skiing
The surrounding mountains of St. Moritz offer over 350 kilometers of ski slopes, all accessed by gondolas, ski lifts, and funicular services that transport visitors efficiently.
Four ski areas are conveniently close: Corviglia, Corvatsch, Diavolezza, and Zuoz, with high elevations reaching up to 3,500 meters, resulting in extended seasons and excellent snow conditions.
For experienced skiers, Corviglia serves as a great launch point for the World Cup run at Piz Nair, accompanied by a snow park featuring challenging obstacles for freestyle enthusiasts.
On Friday nights, the longest illuminated ski run in Switzerland at Corvatsch remains open until 02:00.
13. Mountain Biking
With an array of remarkable slopes close by, it is no surprise that mountain biking has become increasingly popular in St. Moritz during the summer season.
If you prefer less intense rides, Corviglia’s three well-designed flow trails descend gracefully, resembling roller coasters for cyclists.
Young riders as young as 12 can participate, whereas seasoned cyclists can embark on the St. Moritz Railway Tour.
This moderate-distance route traces the paths of the resort’s funiculars, featuring a descent of nearly 6,500 meters.
14. Cresta Run
The echoes of affluence and nobility resonate prominently at the world’s oldest skeleton run.
Ambitious gentlemen have been racing down this natural ice track since 1884. It is worth noting that women are generally prohibited from competing or utilizing the track until the final day of the season.
This historic club, founded by the British, has primarily been a domain for American and British members for an extended period.
Presently, it has become more international, although announcements during races from December to March are exclusively made in English.
Adventurous individuals with financial means can take lessons from club members, and numerous events occur throughout the winter, allowing spectators to witness Olympic-level athletes in action.
15. Food and Drink
If you are a visitor who insists on experiencing local delicacies, the Engadine walnut tart offers an authentic taste of the region.
This treat features a shortcrust pastry recipe passed down through generations, combining caramel, cream, and generous portions of walnuts.
Local establishments such as Confiserie Hauser and Conditorei Hanselmann specialize in creating exquisite walnut tarts.
Lastly, for a distinctive drinking experience, the Hotel am Waldsee in the valley boasts a bar known as Devil’s Place, featuring an impressive collection of up to 2,500 varieties of whisky.
According to the Guinness Book of Records, this establishment holds the title for the most extensive whisky bar in the world.
