St. Moritz is a picturesque mountain resort town located in the Engadin valley of Switzerland. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and world-class dining and shopping, St. Moritz has become a popular destination for tourists from around the world. In this article, we’ll explore the history of St. Moritz, how to get there, the top sights to see, and the delicious cuisine that you can enjoy while visiting this beautiful town.
History
St. Moritz has a long and fascinating history that dates back over 3,000 years. The area was originally inhabited by the Raetians, an ancient people who lived in the region from the 6th century BC. The town itself was first established in the Middle Ages as a trading center for goods from Italy and Germany.
In the late 19th century, St. Moritz became a popular destination for wealthy Europeans who were drawn to the town’s stunning natural beauty and healing mineral springs. Today, St. Moritz is still known as a playground for the rich and famous, with many luxury hotels, shops, and restaurants catering to a discerning clientele.
How to Get There
St. Moritz is easily accessible by train, car, and air. The town is served by the St. Moritz train station, which is located in the center of town and is connected to major Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. Additionally, there are several highways that connect St. Moritz to other parts of Switzerland and Italy.
If you’re flying into Switzerland, the nearest airport to St. Moritz is Zurich International Airport, which is located about 200 km away. From there, you can take a train or rent a car to make the journey to St. Moritz.
Sights
St. Moritz is a town full of stunning natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and world-class shopping and dining. Here are just a few of the top sights to see while visiting St. Moritz:
Lake St. Moritz: This stunning lake is located in the center of town and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. In the winter, the lake is used for ice skating and other winter sports.
St. Moritz Olympic Bobrun: This historic bobsled track was built for the 1928 Winter Olympics and is still in use today. Visitors can take a ride down the track with a professional bobsled pilot for an adrenaline-filled experience.
Segantini Museum: This museum, located in the town center, is dedicated to the works of the Italian painter Giovanni Segantini, who spent many years living and working in St. Moritz.
Bernina Express: This scenic train ride takes visitors through the stunning mountain landscapes of the Swiss Alps and is considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.
Cuisine
St. Moritz is known for its delicious and innovative cuisine, which blends traditional Swiss flavors with international influences. Here are a few of the must-try dishes and drinks:
Fondue: This classic Swiss dish is made with melted cheese and is usually served with bread, potatoes, and other accompaniments.
Rösti: This traditional Swiss dish is made with grated potatoes that are fried until crispy and served with a variety of toppings, including cheese, bacon, and onions.
Bündnerfleisch: This cured meat is a specialty of the Graubünden region of Switzerland and is often served as an appetizer with bread and cheese.
Champagne: St. Moritz is known for its luxurious lifestyle, and many restaurants and bars offer an extensive selection of fine wines and champagnes.
Conclusion
St. Moritz is a stunning mountain resort town that offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and world-class dining and shopping. Whether you’re exploring the surrounding mountains, taking a ride on the historic bobsled track, or savoring the flavors of Swiss cuisine, there is something for everyone in St. Moritz. And with a variety of accommodations and activities to choose from, visitors can customize their experience to fit their interests and budget.