A playground of the rich and famous, the chic, jet-set resort town of St. Moritz in Switzerland just oozes glamour and sophistication. Known as the “Roof of the World”, St. Moritz is a wonderland for winter sports and summer’s natural delights. From gourmet dining to Europe’s finest snow park, see how you could spend 24 hours in St. Moritz.
Where to stay
St. Moritz’s largest and oldest hotel, the Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski, is set proudly at the Mauritius spring, the actual root of St. Moritz itself, with sweeping views of the Swiss Alps and scenic Engadine countryside. Built in 1864, step into 5-star contemporary luxury with a dash of old school charm. Enjoy original features in the Enoteca restaurant, with its soaring frescoed ceiling and porcelain fireplace, and take a step back in time in the wood-panelled cigar room.
Perfectly located for winter sports, with direct access to the slopes, the hotel has its own ski shop and ski-school. And in the summer months, enjoy the tennis and squash centre, hike local trails or simply sit back and relax on the terraces with spectacular alpine views. At the Alpine Spa, treat yourselves to a sauna, a walk through the Kneipp stream or a relaxing dip in the marble column-flanked indoor pool. Guests are encouraged to sample the iron-rich mineral water directly from the source, prized for its healing qualities.
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Where to dine
St. Moritz is a gourmet mecca for foodies from around the world. If you’re looking for fine dining, an essential thing to do in St. Moritz, then you are spoiled for choice as one in ten restaurants has a world-class restaurant rating. From Gault Millau points to Michelin stars, all kinds of awards adorn their walls. It is important to note, however, that some St. Moritz restaurants are not open in the summer months.
If you want a break from the norm, dine on delicious sharing plates at the two Michelin-starred IGNIV by Andreas Caminada. The food concept here is based on regional products combined with a cosmopolitan touch. And, in the winter season, you don’t even need to leave the hotel for the ultimate fine dining experience. Its two Michelin Starred restaurant, Cà d’Oro, is second-to-none in the region for its incredible Mediterranean cuisine. The hotel also offers two other gourmet restaurants, for you to take your pick.
For classic cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, we recommend a local’s favourite, Restaurant Engiadina. The Châteaubriand and traditional Capuns are simply divine.
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What to do after dinner
Even if you’re a fan of an early night, the evening’s razzamatazz is an institution in St. Moritz. Here the hours of darkness are given over entirely to the resort’s legendary dazzling parties in its luxurious lounges, bars and clubs. Step out in style for a bit of VIP spotting, mingle with the locals and enjoy a signature cocktail or two.
Whisky lovers should head to Devil’s Place. This cosy bar houses over 2,500 different kinds of whiskey, making it the largest selection in the world. Serving mainly Scottish single malt whiskeys, there is also a variety of blended Irish whiskey and bourbon, as well as other grain spirits from around the world. A perfect spot to round off 24 hours in St. Moritz.
What to do in winter
The highest resort in Switzerland, St. Moritz is a paradise for skiers and winter sport enthusiasts. The birthplace of alpine winter sports in 1864 and venue of two Olympic Winter Games, St. Moritz offers some of the best cross country and intermediate ski terrain in the country. Imagine spectacular views, runs to suit every level and some of the best après-ski in the world.
Take your time on the slopes on a number of exceptionally long runs. Or, for the more flamboyant skiers, test your skills on the 30 obstacles at the Corviglia Snow Park, one of the most thrilling St. Moritz winter activities. For beginners and those who prefer slow and steady, head to the gentler terrain of Paradiso. And while you are here, don’t miss the opportunity to update your winter sports wardrobe to top glamour status.
Travel in February and enjoy the thrilling spectacle of White Turf horse racing, as thoroughbreds race through the snow. An unbeatable highlight is skikjöring, where riders on skis are pulled along behind their steeds. There’s no more exhilarating way to pass 24 hours in St. Moritz.
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What to do in summer
Absolutely sublime in summer, endless days of sunshine gleam across the mountain meadows and peaks and warm the myriad of hiking and biking trails. You won’t be short of St. Moritz summer activities. The shimmering lake is the focus of attention for many visitors. Here you can walk or bike the entire lake shore, stopping at the many cafes and restaurants on the way. For a gentler exploration, take a ride on the open mountain highways and bask in the views from the comfort of your seat.
Lakeside yoga is popular, making the most of your serene surroundings. And wildlife walks with an expert guide – keep an eye out and have your camera ready for sightings of marmots, red deer and the magnificent Golden Eagle.
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Shopping and Art
St. Moritz is a fashion capital on a miniature scale. With shopping to rival the big international fashion capitals, head to Via Serlas to enjoy luxury brands galore.
Browse Cartier, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Hermès, Patek Philippe, and Valentino, plus local brands such as Faoro, Silvano Vitalini, and the Cashmere House Lamm. And, if you are a connoisseur of art then Hauser & Wirth, the Vito Schnabel Gallery and the Karsten Greve gallery are some of the essential places to visit in St. Moritz. A source of inspiration for artists and authors and thinkers, St. Moritz has long been established on the international art scene.
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The Glacier Express
If you want to head off out of town, or for your onward journey, then take an unforgettable ride aboard The Glacier Express. This glass-topped train journeys between Zermatt and St. Moritz, taking in one of Switzerland’s most scenic train routes through spectacular Swiss mountain scenery.
Read more: 5 incredible photographs to take from Switzerland’s Glacier Express
Are you yearning to spend 24 hours in chic St. Moritz?
Join us on our 10-Day Majestic Switzerland luxury guided tour and explore this beautiful Alpine country. Enjoy 24 hours in St. Moritz and more, with fine dining, exquisite hotels, the services of your Traveling Concierge and an unforgettable voyage on the Glacier Express.
Read more: Majestic Switzerland through the lens of a Traveling Concierge
This article was created in partnership with Switzerland Tourism
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