It is now the peak ski season, and Switzerland ski resorts are among the top destinations that come to mind. The country boasts some of the most iconic ski destinations, ranging from the glamorous St. Moritz and Gstaad to the picture-perfect Zermatt, home to the iconic Matterhorn.
Switzerland has over 7,000 kilometers of magnificent slopes perfect for fresh powder and well-groomed pistes. The country is equipped with 2,000 ski lifts and hosts some of the most luxurious resorts. It is a destination that seamlessly blends luxury and top-notch après-ski entertainment and caters to the needs of discerning families.
Economy Middle East highlights two Swiss ski destinations, ranked among the world’s best.
St. Moritz, Engadin Valley, Switzerland
The Town
Renowned as the birthplace of winter tourism and Alpine sports in Switzerland, St. Moritz has a rich history dating back to 1864. It is situated at an elevation of 1,856 meters above sea level. This glamorous destination offers 87 World Cup standard slopes and pistes, providing a world-class skiing experience.
Nestled in the serene Engadin valley, St. Moritz has proudly hosted the Winter Olympics twice. The first was in 1928 and then again in 1948. Notably, it is home to the prestigious “Cresta Run,” a world-championship bobsled track spanning 1.212m, where riders can reach speeds of up to 140 km/h.
Luxury hotels and gourmet restaurants cater to discerning travelers. In particular, Via Serlas is renowned for high-end shopping featuring brands like Loro Piana, Cartier, Hermes and Bulgari. For a taste of local culinary excellence, Hauser Confiserie offers some of the finest regional delicacies.
Annually, the town hosts exciting events. These include the three-day Snow Polo World Cup on the frozen lake of St. Moritz during the last weekend of January. In February, the unique White Turf horse-racing event takes place on the frozen lake. It features jockeys, gourmet catering, lively music and art exhibitions. The town also hosts the annual St. Moritz Gourmet Festival.
The Slopes
St. Moritz was home to one of Switzerland’s inaugural ski lifts, starting operations in 1935. There are now over 155 km of slopes in close proximity to the town, boasting the longest descent at an impressive 10 km. The broader Engadin valley features nearly 350 kilometers of pistes. Notable skiing destinations encompass Corviglia/Piz Nair, Corvatsch/Furtschellas, Diavolezza and Lagalb.
Where to stay
When it comes to St. Moritz, one is spoiled for choice. At Economy Middle East, we have shortlisted two.
This 5-star castle in a natural park in Upper Engadine, just 2 km from St. Moritz. It offers 171 rooms and 10 suites, making it an ideal luxury retreat. With a traditional ambiance, the Grand Restaurant requires gentlemen to wear dark suits and ties.
Executive Chef Fabrizio Zanetti serves award-winning cuisine at Suvretta Stube. Meanwhile, lunch with stunning views can be enjoyed at Chasellas and Trutz mountain restaurants. The hotel includes a private ski lift for direct access to the Suvretta chairlift, ensuring a perfect skiing day.
One cannot visit St. Moritz and miss out on Badrutt’s Palace, a historic luxury hotel established in 1896 by Johannes Badrutt. Initially, he bought a small establishment that he later transformed into Kulm Hotel St. Moritz (also a notable hotel). In 1864, his son Casper Badrutt converted another hotel into the renowned Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, leaving a lasting impact.
Today, Badrutt’s Palace stands as a landmark with 155 rooms, offering a captivating view over the lake. With culinary delights, La Coupole – Matsuhisa by Nobuyuki Matsuhisa (NOBU), Le Restaurant with crystal chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling windows, Le Relais and King’s Social House. Badrutt’s Palace sets the gold standard for luxury, attracting royalty and socialites.
Gstaad
The Town
“Come Up, Slow Down” is the official motto of Gstaad, located in the German-speaking part of the Canton of Bern. Standing at 1,050 meters, it is a renowned Swiss ski resort frequented by celebrities such as Elton John, Diana Ross, Princess Diana, Sophia Loren, Grace Kelly, Peter Sellers, Sir Roger Moore and Elizabeth Taylor. Gstaad is also home to prestigious boarding schools like Institut Le Rosey and John F. Kennedy International School, where royalty and the social elite enroll their kids.
Gstaad’s history dates back to the Middle Ages, with a renaissance after the 1898 fire, marked by the establishment of the Ski Club of Saanen in 1905 and the Ski Club of Gstaad in 1907. Today, Gstaad is a luxurious mountain retreat featuring the Gstaad Promenade with famous brands and top-notch restaurants Rilato, La Bagatelle, Gildo‘s Ristorante, Restaurant Saagi Stübli, Chubut, Wally’s and many more.
The Slopes
The first ski lifts in Gstaad opened in the early 1930s. Today, the town and its surroundings offer up to 200 km of pistes, featuring 80 slopes spanning altitudes between 1,000 and 3,000 meters above sea level. These are served by 50 ski lifts, including gondolas, cable cars, chairlifts and t-bars. The ski areas extend to Rinderberg, Saanerslochgrat, Horneggli, Eggli, La Videmanette and Wispile. For those seeking extreme snow experiences, Glacier 3000 is also available.
Where to Stay
Opened in 1913 and resembling a medieval castle, the hotel stands out as Gstaad’s most iconic monument. Over the years, it has welcomed royalty, celebrities and even the renowned Inspector Clouseau in Blake Edwards’ “Return of the Pink Panther.”
Featuring 90 uniquely designed rooms and suites, each offering unparalleled views of the Alps, the hotel provides guests with unmatched luxury. For those seeking an extravagant experience, the Gstaad Palace allows guests to reserve an entire floor – a request frequently fulfilled, given the caliber of its clientele.
The Culinary offerings at the Gstaad Palace include Walig Hut, Le Grand Restaurant & La Grande Terrasse, Le Grill, La Fromagerie and Gildo’s Ristorante among others. It’s close proximity to the town, combined with impeccable service, makes sure the hotel remains a preferred choice for the Gstaad jet-set.
This five-star luxury hotel is an icon of Gstaad, priding itself in sustainability. Situated a short walk from Gstaad town center, this five-acre resort is nested within thick forest, and surrounded by glorious mountains. By combining old world charm and contemporary design, the Alpina manages to find the perfect medium between past and present. Some striking features include the wonderful art-work, double-height ceilings, and a grand staircase. The hotel is also home to an impressive spa. When it comes to culinary delights, Michelin-starred Executive Chef Martin Göschel supervises The Alpina Gstaad’s 3 restaurants. Cigar Bar and a Six Senses Spa can be counted among the services as well as a kids club for families who want to enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Swiss Alps.
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