The Birthplace of Winter Tourism
Frozen lakes, snow-capped mountains and majestic glaciers: you would think that the Engadine has always been a playground for winter sport enthusiasts. Yet, up until 1864, St. Moritz was visited during summer months exclusively. It took the pioneering spirit of a local hotelier to establish the town as a winter holiday destination.
Legend has it that Johannes Badrutt, the owner of the Kulm Hotel, dared the British sun-seekers who were spending their summer holidays there to return again during winter. The terms of his bet were that if the guests did not enjoy the sun terrace as much as during summer, the hotel would not charge for their stay. Lo and behold, the initial winter tourists were convinced by the sunny climate. They even extended their stay through spring and word spread quickly about holidays in the snow.
In the 1890s, the hotel introduced winter sports such as skiing, ice-skating, curling and bob sledding. And as a result of Mr. Badrutt’s inventiveness, the Kulm Hotel became the world’s first winter holiday resort. In 1928 and 1948, St. Moritz even hosted the Winter Olympic Games. And still today, the annual White Turf horse races draw spectators from around the world. Apart from the Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, the Engadine is home to four other properties under the umbrella of Swiss Deluxe Hotels.
Related Stories
Faster, higher, stronger: visiting the Lausanne Palace, over whose entrances hangs a flag with the Olympic rings, with a muscular Labrador. The hotel is a dream destination for all dogs, from the sporty to the pleasure-oriented. Fortunately, chocolate, cheese and wine doping for the master is legal here.
Discover more
A giant mythological creature, fish in beeswax and fluffy dog beds: at The Alpina Gstaad luxury hotel, animals play more than just an insignificant supporting role. Nevertheless, they also need to be able to behave appropriately, as author Titus Arnu found out during his stay as a guest in Gstaad with his Labrador Oskar.
Discover more
The engine is running as the anticipation rises. Our upcoming road trip takes us on the Ruta Cumpleta, the most comprehensive tour of the Alpine Circle, over the most scenic roads through the cantons of Graubünden and Ticino. Join us on a journey crossing grandiose passes while stopping at magnificent hotels and restaurants.
Discover more
Whether seeking Alpine adventures, culinary delights, or simply looking to dive into Switzerland’s inspired natural beauty, the Engadin has it all. With its stunning landscapes, pristine lakes, and charming villages, it’s no wonder the region consistently ranks as a top destination for travellers seeking unforgettable experiences.
Discover more
Tartare in the bowl, non-alcoholic dog vodka, and Basler Leckerli treats galore: at the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, our columnist’s black Labrador enjoys five-star service fit for a king.
Discover more
A colourful evening with fondue, fun and friends in the company of a colour-blind Labrador: despite this apparent contradiction, we spend a delightful time at the ultra-stylish Carlton Hotel in St. Moritz.
Discover more
A welcome refuge from Zurich’s hustle and bustle and the arctic chill voutside, I didn’t exactly expect a female DJ when I first checked into the cool, calm and collected La Réserve Eden Au Lac. No big logos or signs announce the imaginary yacht club entirely designed by Philippe Starck. In the designer’s own words, ‘This hotel is like rock ‘n’ rolling with the Queen of England; everything is traditional yet resolutely unconventional.’ I was immediately intrigued to find out more.
Discover more