Luxury skiing holiday in St Moritz

Nestled high the Swiss Alps, St Moritz is regarded as one of the oldest and most famous winter resorts in the world – attracting thousands of visitors each year to its 250 miles total of downhill ski runs.

Nearly 6,000 feet above sea level, the resort also knows how to live the highlife in more ways than one.

While the 'White Turf' horse race (run over the frozen Lake St. Moritz), Cartier snow Polo World Cup and annual Sotheby's auction may attract the internationally wealthy, there are also options for those on a more modest budget.

What to do in St Moritz

While the rich and famous can be found partying at the renowned King's Club it is the skiing which draws the crowds to the resort – explaining why it became a world-famous destination over a century ago.

With 250 miles of downhill runs (some of them over a mile long), St Moritz has twice been able to host the Winter Olympics (in 1928 and 1948) and regularly accommodates the Alpine Skiing World Championships.

There are also over 100 miles of cross-country trails, an Olympic ski jump and a host of ski schools - including Schweizer Skischule and the Suvretta Snow Sports School.

Hiking - particularly in the Swiss National Park - in the Lower Engadine Valley is also popular with guests.

Famous for its almost pristine landscape, the oldest central European park is famous for its great variety of fauna and flora – home to deer, ibex, chamois, marmots and golden eagles.

Pontresina, is also an excellent location for climbing, allowing holidaymakers to take lessons and rent equipment. Cycling is also on hand throughout the lakes of the Engadine Valley.

St Moritz also has a range of horse riding stables allowing holidaymakers to canter through the gorgeous alpine scenery, as well as enjoying a full racing calendar.

White-water rafting on the En River allows guests to ride the rapids from June through September, while sailing is popular on Engadine's 25 lakes.

Special events

Outside of the White Turf International Horse Races and Cartier snow Polo World Cup, St Moritz offers a range of wonders for visitors.





The annual Christmas market takes place in December – offering over 80 stalls offering tree decorations, foodstuffs, woodcraft, silk painting and dolls.

Taking place on the world's only natural tracks, St Moritz also holds bobsleigh and skeleton events in the early months of the year.

Where to eat

Eating out in St Moritz can be a budget experience or you can opt for two-star Michelin restaurants.

Among the restaurants offering outstanding cuisine with an appetising price tag is La Marmite. Located at the top of the funicular (Corviglia Bergstation) it is a great lunch stop with prices from £15.

The restaurant maintains an extensive selection of caviar, available with canapés.

The Chesa Chantarella offers an exclusive mountain dining experience, serving excellent Swiss cuisine prepared from ingredients from the Upper Engadine’s top producers.

A carriage ride from this characteristic restaurant down to the valley makes a romantic end to an evening. Alternatively, thrill-seekers can take a sleigh ride instead.

Where to stay

This winter Flexiski is offering visitors a four-night break at the three-star Hotel Hauser from £380 per person, including breakfast (based on sharing a double room).

The hotel is in the centre of St Moritz – home to a host of glamorous events, including the White Turf Racing Festival – and many of the double rooms on the south side overlook the main square.

However, for those with taste for the high life, head for the exclusive Badrutt’s Palace for a no-expense spared five-star treat.

Badrutt’s Palace offers spectacular views of the Alps and St Moritz Lake. A historic symbol of St Moritz, the palace has been a favourite with celebrities and royalty since it opened in 1896.

Chris O'Toole