St. Moritz: Timeless Alpine Glamour with a Contemporary Twist at Grace La Margna

St. Moritz has always had a certain magic about it. Perched high in Switzerland’s Engadin valley, it’s one of those places that feels both grand and welcoming at the same time. People have been coming here for over 150 years - first drawn by the healing mountain air and sunshine, and later by the skiing, the scenery, and the unmistakable sense of Alpine glamour that still lingers today.

What I love most about St. Moritz is how naturally it blends tradition with modern luxury.

That spirit is perfectly captured by the Grace Hotel, a relatively new addition to the village (just three years old) that somehow already feels part of the landscape.

From the moment you arrive, the warmth of the place stands out. It’s just a short stroll from the train station - very convenient if you’re arriving after the scenic three-hour journey from Zurich Airport. Or by car, travelling from Milan is just a 2.5hr transfer,

It’s also perfectly positioned if you’re planning to take the spectacular Bernina train route, one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world.

We took the train back to Zurich at the end of the trip - about three hours with a couple of easy changes - and it was one of THE most scenic journeys.

The hotel itself strikes a lovely balance between contemporary design and cosy Alpine charm. The rooms are wonderfully spacious, with soft textures, warm colours and an inviting, cocoon-like feel after a day in the mountains. Thoughtful details make all the difference here: an initial minibar included in the stay, Dyson hairdryers, excellent amenities and even a pillow menu you can browse from your personal in-room tablet. It all feels quietly luxurious rather than over the top.

The service is exceptional - striking that perfect balance of friendly, relaxed hospitality but with impeccable attention to detail.

The hotel is just a 5–10 minute walk into the centre of St Moritz and close to the train station - ideal if you’re planning the spectacular Bernina train journey.

For skiing, there’s also a complimentary shuttle to the funicular, only about 5–10 minutes away, and after a day on the slopes, the Spa and indoor pool are an idyllic, luxurious escape.

And then there’s the food - something Grace clearly takes very seriously. The hotel has three superb restaurants, each with its own distinct personality.

Stüvetta Moritz is the cosiest of the trio, with a warm, traditional Alpine feel. It’s the kind of place where you settle in happily for the evening, enjoying comforting regional dishes and a relaxed atmosphere. The View offers something more refined. As the name suggests, the setting is elegant and the cuisine beautifully executed - perfect for a special dinner after a day exploring the Engadin. And for a livelier evening, Beefbar brings a buzzy international energy to the hotel, serving its signature premium cuts and contemporary dishes in a stylish, vibrant setting.

Of course, while the Grace is a destination in its own right, St. Moritz itself is full of character and fascinating traditions.

Winter here is legendary. Skiing is spectacular, but it’s the rituals and history that make the place truly special. One of the most famous is the Cresta Run, the historic natural ice skeleton track that dates back to 1884. Watching brave riders hurtle head-first down the twisting ice channel is both thrilling and slightly terrifying - and it’s a tradition that remains uniquely St. Moritz.

Beyond skiing, the frozen lake becomes a stage for extraordinary events - from polo and horse racing on ice to winter walking with the mountains glittering all around.

In summer, the landscape transforms completely. The Engadin valley is breathtaking: turquoise lakes, wildflower meadows, miles of hiking and cycling trails and a variety of events.

The light here is incredibly clear, which explains why artists have been drawn to the area for generations.

St. Moritz also knows how to do lunch exceptionally well. Two favourites are Langosteria, known for its superb Italian seafood, and White Marmot, perched on the slopes with glorious views and wonderfully relaxed mountain dining.

And then there are those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that make a trip unforgettable. For me, two highlights stand out: a helicopter flight over the surrounding glaciers - an astonishing view of the Alps from above and a wonderfully indulgent Caviar tasting that felt perfectly in keeping with the town’s quietly glamorous spirit.

St. Moritz has always been a place where adventure meets elegance. With the addition of Grace Hotel, there’s now a fresh, contemporary base that captures exactly what makes this Alpine village so special: warmth, tradition, great food, and just a little bit of magic in the mountain air.