St. Moritz, Switzerland

St. Moritz in Switzerland has a glamorous reputation and is known to accommodate a wide range of visitors, from well-to-do celebrities to professional winter athletes. The town itself is divided into St. Moritz Dorf and St. Moritz Bad, though the overall scenic setting and dazzling shops create the stunning life deemed noteworthy in James Bond films and a hotspot amongst today's elite. Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Versace are a few of the well-known establishments complimenting the upscale jewelry and designer-watch boutiques.

And did you know that scenic St. Moritz is one of the first winter sports destinations in the world? Well, let me tell you something: not only is it among the first, but it’s also one of the best! The ski resort is visually enticing and also has a fun atmosphere that will make you never want to leave the place. From the highly skilled backcountry junkies to the cross-country fanatics, and the mass of intermediates who enjoy freshly groomed cruisers, tourists from all over the globe land in here to beat the snow by skiing, trekking or bobsledding in the natural Swiss terrain.

What to see?

There’s a LOT to see and do in this alpine wonderland – you can enjoy winter sports such as curling, tobogganing, Nordic skiing, bobsledding, and kite skiing and summer activities such hiking, climbing, sailing, windsurfing, tennis, horseback riding, and golf. They also have a world famous polo match in January of every year, which is the social event to attend if you want to see and be seen. You can also visit the beautiful Lake St. Moritz and unwind in its tranquillity or if you’re in for some sightseeing, I’d recommend visiting St. Moritz Design Gallery that displays collections of rare posters.

You can start exploring the town by visiting Muottas Muragl, a vantage point where you will be treated to a breathtaking, 360° view of the Upper Engadin Valley and its lakes. Here, you can also take a ride down the mountain in the fastest toboggan run in Switzerland.

But what to do in St Moritz in the summer, you ask? In summer, you must take a ride in Bernina Express and treat yourself to the sumptuous views of the Bernina Range. If you are into art, you can visit the Seganthini Museum dedicated to Giivanni Seganthini, one of the most famous artists in Europe in the late 19th century. The museum holds around 50 of Giivanni’s works from all phases of his career.

Other places you must visit include, Diavolezza, Lake Staz, Piz Corvatsch, Olympic Bobrun, Engadiner Museum and Leaning Tower.

Where to stay?

You cannot be in St. Moritz and not stay in one of the many traditionally styled chalets here. The charming Hotel Chesa Spuondas, cozy Hotel Nolda, Hotel Waldhaus Am See with an enviable lakeside position and the Giardino Mountain all boast of a traditional style exterior and a warm, relaxed atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. For something more lavish, stay at Badrutt’s Palace. This hotel is an embodiment of classic grandeur as it adds to an environment of pampered luxury for everyone. Lodging here will definitely make your stay an extraordinary experience of elegance and comfort. With the spectacular view of Swiss Alps from the windows, it can evoke the most euphoric emotions.

My clear favorite, however, is the world-renowned Kulm Hotel. The rooms are elegant and well-appointed, it’s practically ski on ski off with the hotel being positioned at the base of the mountain right near the gondola, you can store your skis and boots on heaters in the ski room, and the spa is one of the most incredible spas I’ve ever been to in the world. This one seriously ranks in the top five. There’s an indoor heated pool with glass windows that overlook the valley, and a pass-through that brings you to the outside, where you can relax in the 100 degree heated water while breathing in the cold air and marveling at the insane views of the valley, the lake and the alps behind you. Truly breathtaking.

Where to eat?

From Michelin-starred restaurants to modest cafes nestled in the mountains, St. Moritz promises a true culinary delight to all visitors. Fortunately, the presence of the posh and high-end lifestyle will never damper the Swiss après-ski mentality and liveliness which vibrates through the restaurants here in St Moritz. Restaurants here range from classy white-table cloth eateries to English-style pubs… which I am sure most people would love. Between the fantastic flavors of Chesa Vegalia, the unpretentious, honest Swiss cuisine at Veltinerkeller and the delectable Italian dishes at Dal Mulin, it’s hard to not be spoiled for good food!

With its stunning white and gold décor, fantastic food and a really fine selection of wine, one of the best restaurants in St. Moritz is the Ecco on snow. If you are craving Italian, Veltinerkeller is a good option to consider. Also, do try the Bündner Soup at Chesa al Parc… It is exquisite. For a hearty Swiss lunch or dinner after a long day of skiing, eat traditional fare at Bob Restaurant at the Kulm Hotel, which has ski and bobsledding memorabilia adorning the walls. For true fine dining, head over to IGNIV by Andreas Caminada at Badrutt’s Palace or Grand Restaurant at the Kulm Hotel—both restaurants are phenomenal.

St Moritz is a place that never fails to evoke the senses of wanderlust. So, what are you waiting for? Just pack your bags and start for the destination lest you miss out on such a wonderful opportunity to live in the splendor.