Location and Historical Background
St. Moritz sits high in the Upper Engadin valley in eastern Switzerland, at around 1,800 meters above sea level. Frozen lakes, bright sun, and wide-open alpine landscapes define the setting, while crisp air and intense light give the town its unmistakable clarity. Today, St. Moritz impresses with immaculate infrastructure, legendary winters, and a lifestyle carefully calibrated for high performance.
The area has been known since antiquity for its mineral springs, used by Romans as early as the 1st century CE. For centuries, St. Moritz remained a quiet mountain settlement until one bold hotelier made a wager that would change everything.
First great blow – Isolation and harsh alpine life (Middle Ages–18th century):
Until the modern era, St. Moritz endured long winters, limited access, and economic hardship. Survival depended on agriculture and seasonal movement, keeping the village small and cautious.
Second great blow – World War periods and travel disruption (1914–1945):
Global conflicts interrupted international travel, luxury tourism, and sporting events. Though Switzerland remained neutral, St. Moritz felt the economic slowdown and uncertainty of the early 20th century.
Third great blow – Climate variability and winter dependence (late 20th–21st centuries):
Changing snow patterns and environmental pressures challenged winter tourism models. St. Moritz responded with innovation, diversification, and a strong focus on sustainability.
Golden Age – Birth of winter tourism (late 19th–early 20th centuries):
St. Moritz’s golden age began in the 1860s, when hotelier Johannes Badrutt invited summer guests to experience winter in the Alps. The experiment succeeded spectacularly, turning St. Moritz into the birthplace of winter tourism and a global luxury destination. Two Winter Olympics (1928 and 1948) sealed its status.
Why St. Moritz Is Worth Visiting Today
St. Moritz today remains unmatched in its blend of sport, style, and setting. Skiing, snowboarding, polo on a frozen lake, sailing in summer, and world-class wellness coexist without friction. The town feels efficient rather than flashy—luxury here is precise, not loud.
What truly sets St. Moritz apart is confidence born of history. It knows exactly what it offers and delivers it with consistency. Visitors don’t come to be surprised; they come to be assured.
Tourist Information and Must-See Places
- Average lunch: €22–30
- Average accommodation (mid-range hotel): €180–260 per night
- One beer: €7–9
- One coffee: €4–5
Most interesting areas:
Lake St. Moritz area, Corviglia slopes, Engadin Valley villages
Lake St. Moritz
In winter, the frozen lake hosts polo, horse racing, and events found nowhere else. In summer, it becomes a calm, reflective centerpiece for walks and sailing.
Corviglia Ski Area
Sun-drenched slopes above town offering panoramic views and impeccably maintained runs. It’s a benchmark for alpine skiing quality.
Engadin Villages (Pontresina, Sils)
Nearby villages provide a quieter, more traditional counterpoint to St. Moritz’s glamour, showcasing Engadin architecture and culture.
Final Summary
St. Moritz doesn’t pretend to be modest—it perfected excellence long ago. Cold, bright, and immaculately composed, it proves luxury can coexist with discipline and altitude. If Switzerland has a place where winter wears a tailored coat and shows up early, St. Moritz is already waiting by the fire.
Tags: Alps • Switzerland