Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, St. Moritz, with its glittering Alpine scenery and legendary winter sports legacy, remains a world-class destination for those seeking a perfect blend of luxury and adventure. My recent trip to St. Moritz during the iconic Snow Polo World Cup was a magical experience.

Accommodation in St. Moritz

Booking a 3-night stay at Chesa Albris proved to be a stroke of luck. This budget-friendly family-run bed and breakfast, situated just steps away from the horse polo on ice, offered a cozy loft with picturesque views. In a town where finding accommodation during the polo event is a challenge, stumbling upon this quaint B&B felt like discovering a hidden treasure.

For those seeking a more opulent experience, Badrutt's Palace Hotel stands as a teal-turreted haven, steeped in history and frequented by luminaries such as Sir Alfred Hitchcock and Audrey Hepburn. The hotel's timeless elegance and the allure of a 1968 Rolls-Royce Phantom for impromptu outings make it a quintessential St. Moritz landmark.

The Kulm Hotel St Moritz, with its bridge between past and present, offers a symphony of opulence and comfort. Meanwhile, Suvretta House, nestled amid snow-laden pines, provides an ideal vantage point to dip in and out of the action, complete with a private lift for swift access to the slopes. Additionally, the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains promises a lavish retreat with world-class amenities, adding another layer of extravagance to your St. Moritz experience.

Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz

St. Moritz has been the proud host of the Snow Polo World Cup since 1985, showcasing the world's only "high goal" polo tournament played on snow. The tournament usually takes place in late January or early February, creating a unique atmosphere both on and off the playing field. This multi-day event is complemented by exquisite gourmet offerings and social events in St. Moritz's top-notch hotels, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors and VIPs alike.

As the temperatures drop in St. Moritz, there's nothing quite like sipping on a warm cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) while watching the exciting polo matches unfold on the icy field. The combination of the cold mountain air, the exhilarating polo action, and the comforting warmth of mulled wine creates a sensory experience that captures the essence of winter in St. Moritz.

The climax of our trip was the black-tie cocktail reception afterparty at Badrutt Palace Hotel, where champagne flowed freely, adding a touch of glamour to an already extraordinary experience.

Skiing in St. Moritz

St. Moritz, with its five lift systems, offers diverse skiing experiences. Corviglia, bathed in sunshine and boasting wide-open reds and blues, is perfect for gentle cruising. Corvatsch, with its shadowy slopes, challenges experienced skiers with diverse and demanding terrain, including off-piste adventures. Meanwhile, Diavolezza lures thrill-seekers with its unforgiving runs and epic freeriding opportunities.

Note for Snowboarders

It's worth mentioning that while St. Moritz is a haven for skiing enthusiasts, snowboarding may not be the ideal choice due to the relatively long transportation areas between the slopes, as well as the slopes going both up and down. The slopes layout can make the snowboarding experience less convenient compared to other ski resorts.

St. Moritz Après-Ski

After a thrilling day on the slopes in St. Moritz, the ultimate après-ski experience awaits at Paradiso Mountain Club & Restaurant, perched at an elevation of 2,181 meters above sea level. This exclusive venue, accessible by the Suvretta-Randolins chairlift or a short walk (10 minutes), offers a sun-kissed terrace with deep house beats, providing the perfect setting to unwind and revel in the breathtaking Alpine views.

As you step into this high-altitude haven, brace yourself for an indulgent journey. The lower deck, where you can dine and soak in the ambiance, welcomes non-members for a fee of CHF 40. For added convenience, Badrutt’s Palace extends a vintage Land Rover shuttle service to transport guests to this mountain gem.

If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy champagne and caviar in the Swiss Alps, this is certainly a great place to do it. Don't miss their flaming cognac-spiked Parapampoli and a delightful lunch featuring cheese fondue with fresh truffle.

Where to Eat in St. Moritz

These culinary experiences, though delightful, represent just a fraction of the diverse and delectable offerings St. Moritz has to offer. Regrettably, time constraints prevented us from exploring many other enticing dining establishments in the area.

Pizzeria Heuboden, nestled in Chesa Veglia's pine-clad hayloft, serves truffle-heavy delights, while Alpina Hütte, the oldest hut in the region, offers classic mountain fare with breathtaking views. The large snow bar, with its international DJs, adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

Getting to St. Moritz

To reach St. Moritz, we opted to rent a car, which proved to be incredibly convenient for navigating the town and its surroundings. Flying into Zurich or Milan and then driving through the picturesque Alpine landscapes added an adventurous element to our journey. Alternatively, private transfers or a scenic train ride from these cities are also viable options.

In the heart of St. Moritz, we reveled in the magic of the Snow Polo World Cup, the Alps echoing with thunderous hooves. Our trio danced through the excitement and clinking glasses under the Swiss sun. Until next time, St. Moritz!