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Luxury and local modesty come together in St. Moritz – and in a natural way that leaves you speechless. Here you run down your batteries, recharge and enjoy: the mountains, the panorama and the food that makes you smile so contentedly. St. Moritz is a winter wonderland, a place straight out of a picture book with imposing mountain massifs in the background and idyllic lake landscapes in the foreground. If Mother Hulda had her home on earth, she would certainly find it in one of the chalets in St. Moritz. This month, Tamara Tempini takes us on a tour of her home country and tells us about the most beautiful spots.
Living
At the Hotel Randolins, located in the Suvretta area of St. Moritz, you immediately feel at home. Ski slopes and hiking trails are right on the doorstep, and the fabulous views of the imposing mountains do the rest. Traditionally furnished rooms with lots of wood can be found in the Hotel Laudinella. Those looking for some peace and quiet after a long day in the snow will find it in the sauna, steam bath or during one of the numerous treatments on offer. Even better: seven restaurants ensure a good mood with Thai food, fondue and pizza.
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Food
Breakfast at the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains costs 50 francs. 50 francs that are worth it! The selection is nowhere greater and the in-house specialties are worth a sin. From Bündnerplättli and Capuns to venison burgers, the Uondas restaurant in the Hotel Rosatsch in Celerina offers everything you need to eat during a visit to the Engadin. La Baracca (right next to the Signal parking lot) is less traditional, but all the more exciting. The restaurant, set up in a disused builders’ hut, serves new dishes every day. Prepare yourself for a gourmet evening, because you rarely leave this restaurant before 3 am.
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Shopping
St. Moritz is home to the jet set. Boutiques by Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and Roberto Cavalli line the city’s shopping arcades. If you are traveling without a gold credit card, you can still find bargains here. Many small stores offer their own art, photographs or handmade treasures. Worth a detour is Livin, run by a team of young people from St. Moritz, which offers all kinds of pretty items from small labels as well as its own photography and graphic design services. In the Pavarotti & Friends wine bar, a friendly Italian who actually resembles Pavarotti will recommend the best wine for a cozy dinner. But be careful: he won’t let you go until you’ve had a drink with him.
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Party
St. Moritz is not the right place for fans of boozy parties. However, you can still find good après-ski and a good atmosphere: for example in Vivai or in Club Diamond, where DJs of the caliber of DJ Antoine regularly play.
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Quarters
The hub of St. Moritz is the pedestrian zone. You can get everywhere from here, and the surrounding area is ideal for long walks. The best way to enjoy the panorama is on foot.
Must do
When the sun is shining brightly, there’s only one thing to do: pack your skates and go ice skating on the black ice at Lake Silvaplana or Lake Sils. The transparent layer of ice guarantees a breathtaking view of the underwater world. When the ice on the lake is covered with snow, it’s time for the White Turf, where the world’s best jockeys and polo players compete. Here you can place bets, stroll around the festival grounds and watch the rich and beautiful over a mulled wine.
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Events
St. Moritz City Race 29. and 30.11. On two evenings, winter sports enthusiasts meet on the ski slope of the City Race, which is quickly relocated to the pedestrian zone of St. Moritz.
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Christmas market 4.12. Candles, spices and baked goods: the traditional Christmas market boasts lovingly designed stalls and products from the region.
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© pa picture alliance
Tamara Tempini is a legal and notary secretary.
Loves spontaneous trips.
Hates jealousy.