St. Moritz

St. Moritz Ski Resort Guide

St. Moritz, located in the Swiss Alps, is one of the most prestigious and renowned ski resorts in the world. Known for its luxurious atmosphere, exceptional ski conditions, and rich history in winter sports, St. Moritz attracts visitors from all over the globe. Nestled in the Engadine Valley, this resort offers a combination of modern amenities, upscale accommodations, and a wide variety of slopes, making it a top destination for skiers, snowboarders, and those seeking a winter getaway in an exclusive setting.

1. Overview of St. Moritz

St. Moritz is not just a ski resort; it’s an iconic destination known for hosting the Winter Olympics twice and being a hotspot for high society and celebrities. The town is famous for its sunny climate, upscale shopping, and fine dining. With around 350 km of ski slopes, St. Moritz is a massive skiing area that spans multiple mountains, including Corviglia, Corvatsch, and Diavolezza. The resort offers both a high-end experience with world-class facilities and a welcoming environment for skiers and families of all levels.

2. Skiing and Snowboarding

St. Moritz is famous for its wide variety of slopes and terrain, offering something for everyone:

• Beginner: The resort has excellent areas for beginners, particularly in the Corviglia region, which offers gentle slopes and a range of ski schools. The Muottas Muragl area also features mild slopes ideal for those new to the sport.
• Intermediate: St. Moritz features numerous wide, scenic runs perfect for intermediate skiers. The Corviglia and Corvatsch areas are filled with blue and red runs that offer scenic views and great skiing opportunities for skiers looking to improve their skills.
• Advanced/Expert: Advanced skiers can enjoy steep runs, challenging off-piste terrain, and long descents. The Diavolezza area offers some of the most thrilling black runs in the resort, including routes like the Morteratsch Glacier descent. The resort also has several off-piste areas for adventurous skiers looking to explore untouched snow.

3. Freestyle Snowboarding

St. Moritz is well-equipped for freestyle skiing and snowboarding, featuring multiple terrain parks and freestyle zones:

• Snowpark Corvatsch: Located at Corvatsch, this snowpark is one of the largest and most popular in the region. It features jumps, rails, and other freestyle features for snowboarders and skiers.
• Halfpipe: St. Moritz also has a world-class halfpipe, where snowboarders can practice their tricks and enjoy the thrill of competing at one of the most prestigious resorts in the world.

4. Lift System

St. Moritz offers an extensive and modern lift system that ensures easy access to all areas of the resort:

• Cable Cars and Gondolas: The resort has several cable cars and gondolas, including the Corviglia Cable Car, the Corvatsch Cable Car, and the Diavolezza Gondola that transport skiers quickly and efficiently to the top of the mountains.
• Chairlifts: There are numerous chairlifts that serve both beginner areas and advanced terrain, ensuring accessibility across the vast ski areas.
• Efficiency: The lift system is modern and designed to reduce waiting times, meaning visitors can spend more time on the slopes and less time in line.

5. Other Winter Activities

St. Moritz is a complete winter destination, offering a wide range of activities off the slopes:

• Ski Touring and Snowshoeing: St. Moritz offers several routes for ski touring enthusiasts, and snowshoeing is also a popular way to explore the beautiful Engadine region. There are guided snowshoe tours available to ensure safety and the best experience.
• Ice Skating and Curling: The resort has an ice rink where guests can enjoy ice skating and curling, both quintessential winter activities.
• Sledging: The Muottas Muragl run is one of the longest toboggan runs in the world, offering a thrilling experience for families and those seeking some winter fun.
• Winter Hiking: The resort boasts over 150 km of winter hiking trails, offering scenic and peaceful walks through the beautiful alpine landscape.
• Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides: For a more relaxing experience, visitors can take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered landscape, a classic and romantic winter activity.

6. Après-Ski

St. Moritz has a sophisticated and exclusive après-ski scene, ideal for those looking to unwind in style:

• Bars and Lounges: After a day on the slopes, guests can enjoy a range of upscale bars and lounges, such as the King’s Social House or the Chesa Veglia, a historic building that serves fine food and drinks.
• Restaurants: St. Moritz is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Restaurant IGNIV and Café Badilatti, offering world-class dining experiences.
• Nightlife: The resort also offers a variety of clubs and high-end nightspots for those looking for a lively nightlife scene, including The Dracula Club, a renowned nightclub with a legendary status.

7. Accommodation

St. Moritz offers a wide range of luxury accommodations, as well as more affordable options for visitors:

• Luxury Hotels: St. Moritz is home to some of the most prestigious hotels in the world, including Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, Kulm Hotel, and Suvretta House, which offer exceptional service, luxury spa facilities, and stunning views.
• Chalets and Apartments: The resort offers beautiful chalets and self-catering apartments, ideal for families or groups looking for a more private experience.
• Mid-Range and Budget Options: For those on a budget, there are several mid-range hotels, guesthouses, and hostels available throughout the resort.

8. St. Moritz Village and Attractions

The village of St. Moritz is a hub of activity, with plenty of attractions and things to do:

• Lake St. Moritz: The lake is a popular spot for winter activities like ice skating, horse racing on ice, and snow polo. In the summer, it transforms into a beautiful spot for hiking and water activities.
• Shopping: St. Moritz is known for its high-end shopping, with boutiques offering luxury brands, Swiss watches, and designer clothing.
• St. Moritz Art: The resort is home to several art galleries and cultural events throughout the year, including exhibitions, theater performances, and concerts.
• Swiss Alpine Museum: For those interested in the region’s culture and history, the Swiss Alpine Museum offers fascinating insights into life in the Alps.

9. How to Get There

St. Moritz is easily accessible by train, car, and plane from major Swiss cities:

• By Train: The resort is well-connected by the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), with a direct train route from Zurich that takes around 3.5 hours. The Bernina Express offers a scenic train ride from Chur to St. Moritz.
• By Car: St. Moritz is about a 2-hour drive from Zurich and Milan, making it an easily accessible resort by car. There is plenty of parking available in the village.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Zurich Airport, which is around 3 hours away by train. Milan Malpensa is also an option, around 3 hours by car.

10. Best Time to Visit

The ski season in St. Moritz typically runs from November to April. The best months for snow and skiing are usually from January to March, but visitors can enjoy non-ski winter activities throughout the season. The summer months are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and lake activities.