by Saint Moritz, a luxury alpine resort town in Switzerland, is a world-renowned destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the Engadine Valley, Saint Moritz offers some of the most pristine slopes, breathtaking views, and high-end amenities for skiing and snowboarding. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner looking to enjoy your first powder run, Saint Moritz has a range of trails that cater to all skill levels.
In this guide, we will explore the best skiing and snowboarding trails in Saint Moritz, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for expert skiers. Additionally, we’ll highlight the unique features of the resort and tips for making the most of your winter adventure.
Why Saint Moritz?
Saint Moritz is not just known for its high-end clientele and picturesque surroundings, but also for its commitment to providing top-notch skiing and snowboarding experiences. Here are a few reasons why Saint Moritz is considered one of the best ski resorts in the world:
- Varied Terrain: Saint Moritz offers over 350 kilometers of ski slopes across several mountain ranges, including Corviglia, Corvatsch, and Diavolezza. This ensures a wide variety of trails suited to all levels.
- World-Class Facilities: The resort boasts modern ski lifts, well-maintained trails, and excellent snow conditions, with the added benefit of being a host to international skiing events.
- Exclusive Atmosphere: Saint Moritz is known for its luxurious vibe, offering high-end accommodation, fine dining, and après-ski activities.
- Reliable Snowfall: Thanks to its location at a high altitude, Saint Moritz guarantees reliable snowfall from late November through April.
With this combination of natural beauty, reliable snow, and diverse terrain, it’s no wonder that Saint Moritz attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the world.
Best Skiing and Snowboarding Trails for Beginners
If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, don’t worry—Saint Moritz has plenty of gentle slopes that will allow you to learn at your own pace. The resort’s ski schools offer expert instructors who can guide you through the basics, ensuring that you build confidence while enjoying the stunning alpine surroundings.
1. Corviglia Resort – Easy Trails
- Location: Corviglia Mountain
- Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Highlights: Wide, gentle slopes with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Corviglia, one of the main ski areas in Saint Moritz, is perfect for beginners. It offers a selection of wide, well-groomed pistes that are ideal for learning. The slopes here are gentle, with a variety of easy and medium-level runs that allow newcomers to gain confidence without feeling overwhelmed.
For beginners, the “Celerina” run is a great place to start. This wide slope is not too steep, providing an ideal environment for beginners to practice turning, stopping, and mastering basic skills. There are also dedicated areas for beginners with magic carpets and gentle slopes for those just getting started.
2. Muottas Muragl – Gentle Slopes
- Location: Muottas Muragl
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Highlights: Scenic views of the Engadine Valley and access to a range of easy trails.
Muottas Muragl, known for its stunning panoramic views of the Engadine Valley, offers a range of easy slopes suitable for beginners. The “Panorama” trail here is a favorite for first-time skiers, as it’s a gentle descent with wide spaces, allowing skiers to focus on learning at a relaxed pace.
This area is also great for snowboarders who are new to the sport, as the terrain is forgiving and not too steep. For those looking for a break from skiing, Muottas Muragl also offers a relaxing atmosphere with mountain restaurants serving local delicacies.
3. Signal Ski Area
- Location: Signal Mountain
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Highlights: Long, wide slopes with easy access to ski lifts.
The Signal Ski Area is a beginner’s paradise. It has long, wide slopes that are perfect for first-time skiers and snowboarders. The area is also equipped with ski lifts that provide easy access to the slopes, allowing beginners to get the most out of their time on the mountain. It’s a great place to practice and enjoy skiing or snowboarding without the worry of difficult terrain.
Best Skiing and Snowboarding Trails for Intermediate Skiers
For those who have mastered the basics and are looking to improve their skills, Saint Moritz has plenty of intermediate slopes that offer more challenge while still being manageable. These trails provide a great balance of speed and difficulty.
1. Corvatsch Ski Area – Red Trails
- Location: Corvatsch Mountain
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Highlights: Long runs with a variety of terrain, including some steeper sections.
The Corvatsch Ski Area is one of the largest ski areas in the region, and it offers several red (intermediate) trails that are perfect for those who want to step up their game. One of the most popular intermediate runs is the “Furtschellas” trail, which features a mix of wide-open spaces and some steeper sections. It’s a great choice for skiers and snowboarders who want to practice their carving skills and experience a little more excitement.
Another great intermediate option is the “Murtel” trail, which is longer and offers varied terrain, including some moguls and narrow sections that provide a bit of a challenge without being overwhelming.
2. Diavolezza – Intermediate Terrain
- Location: Diavolezza Mountain
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Highlights: Stunning views, wide pistes, and challenging runs.
Diavolezza offers an intermediate terrain that combines challenging slopes with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks. The “Diavolezza Piste” offers an excellent opportunity to practice carving and skiing on steeper terrain. With long, uninterrupted runs and wide pistes, this area allows intermediate skiers to test their skills and enjoy the thrill of higher speeds.
3. St. Moritz Dorf – Easy to Moderate Slopes
- Location: St. Moritz Dorf
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Highlights: Shorter runs, varied terrain, and quick access from the town center.
For those staying in the town of Saint Moritz, the slopes around St. Moritz Dorf offer a quick and convenient option for intermediate skiers. These slopes feature a variety of terrain, from gentle sections to steeper runs. They are perfect for those looking for shorter, more varied runs after a long day of exploring the town.
Best Skiing and Snowboarding Trails for Experts
Saint Moritz also caters to expert skiers and snowboarders, offering some of the most challenging and exhilarating runs in the world. If you are an experienced skier looking for a true test of skill, these expert-level trails will push your limits.
1. Corviglia – The “Piz Nair” Run
- Location: Corviglia Mountain
- Skill Level: Expert
- Highlights: Steep descents, technical terrain, and thrilling speed.
The “Piz Nair” run is one of the most iconic expert-level trails in Saint Moritz. Starting at the summit of Piz Nair, this run offers a steep descent that will test even the most seasoned skiers and snowboarders. With a mix of technical terrain, sharp turns, and high speeds, it’s perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
The run can be quite challenging due to the gradient and conditions, but it offers a thrilling experience for experts who are up for the challenge.
2. Diavolezza – Glacier Skiing
- Location: Diavolezza Mountain
- Skill Level: Expert
- Highlights: Glacier skiing, deep snow, and untouched terrain.
Diavolezza is also home to some of the best expert skiing and snowboarding in Saint Moritz, particularly on its glacier runs. The “Diavolezza Glacier Run” offers deep snow, challenging off-piste terrain, and a sense of isolation. Skiers and snowboarders who venture into this area will be rewarded with the chance to ski on untouched powder in one of the most stunning environments in the Alps.
3. Engadine Valley Off-Piste Skiing
- Location: Engadine Valley
- Skill Level: Expert
- Highlights: Remote terrain, deep powder, and a true backcountry experience.
For expert skiers and snowboarders who are comfortable with off-piste skiing, the Engadine Valley offers some of the best backcountry terrain in Switzerland. There are several areas in the valley where you can access deep powder, remote slopes, and untouched snow. However, it’s essential to hire a guide if you’re unfamiliar with the area, as the terrain can be difficult and dangerous.
Conclusion
Saint Moritz is a skier’s paradise, offering a wide variety of skiing and snowboarding trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner learning the ropes on the gentle slopes of Corviglia or an expert seeking the ultimate thrill on the challenging Piz Nair run, there’s something for everyone in this Swiss alpine wonderland.
The combination of reliable snow, modern facilities, stunning landscapes, and luxurious accommodations makes Saint Moritz one of the most sought-after winter destinations in the world. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned professional, Saint Moritz guarantees an unforgettable experience on the slopes.
