switzerland-st_moritz travel wintersports Virgin Media

With a resident population of just 5,500, this little town in Eastern Switzerland attracts over 100,000 skiers every winter. Located 6,000 feet above sea level in the Alps, it is widely regarded as the place to see-and-be-seen in Europe, a playground of the rich and famous.

Skiing

Skiing in St Moritz scatters across five main areas: popular Corviglia; Corvatsch; Muottas Muragl; and Diavolezza and Lagalb to the southeast. Snowboarders will love the Engadine Boarder's Valley with its free ride areas and permanent half pipe as well as 4 fun parks.

Although Swiss resorts are in general not known for the extent of their slopes, St Moritz claims 350 kilometers of downhill runs and cross-country skiers will find it among the best resorts in Switzerland. 60 lifts support slopes that have been graded as 16% for beginners, 71% for intermediate and 13% for advanced skiers.

St Moritz offers the Upper Engadin pass, which covers uplift networks across St Moritz, Celerina, Lagalb, Diavolezza, and Pontresina, among others. Lift passes give their holders entrance to the swimming centres at St Moritz Bad and Pontresina. This unique section of Switzerland has three distinct cultures - German, Romansh and Italian.

Other activities

Its off-slope activities are second to none - including the Cresta Run, horse racing, train rides, museums, shopping and not to mention its exquisite restaurants which offer the finest cuisine. Lively bars abound too such as Bobby's Bar, Stübli, Cascade Hemingway, Prince and Vivai.

The resort

The town it self is situated beside the lowest in a long chain of lakes at the foot of the 4,000m Piz Bernina. The activities on the frozen lake give it a real "winter wonderland" feel.

Its climate is influenced by the temperate Mediterranean and as a result, St Moritz is noted for over 320 days of sunshine a year and light champagne snow. Holiday makers can check the weekly Engadin information brochure, available at the tourist office, hotels, and shops to keep up with the many events.

More information:

St Moritz tourism website
Address: Tourist Office of St. Moritz, Via Maistra 12, 7500 St. Moritz
Telephone: 0041 081 837 3333
Fax: 0041 081 837 3377
Email: information@stmoritz.ch