by Saint Moritz, located in the Engadine Valley of the Swiss Alps, is renowned for its winter sports, luxurious resorts, and stunning natural landscapes. The town is a magnet for winter enthusiasts, attracting tourists from around the world who come to experience its unique blend of alpine beauty and high-end leisure. Among the many activities available in this snowy paradise, ice skating holds a special place, with the town offering some of the best rinks for both casual skaters and professionals alike.
Whether you are a seasoned ice skater looking for a professional rink to practice your spins and jumps or a family searching for a fun and relaxed activity, Saint Moritz has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to finding the best ice skating rinks in this picturesque town.
1. Eisbahn St. Moritz (St. Moritz Ice Rink)
The Eisbahn St. Moritz is arguably one of the most famous ice skating rinks in the world, and for good reason. Situated in the heart of the town, this rink is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. What makes it so special is its location and the stunning backdrop of the surrounding mountains. Skating here feels almost magical as you glide across the ice with views of the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps.
This rink is open to both beginners and more experienced skaters, offering a wide range of activities throughout the winter season. You can enjoy public skating sessions, as well as figure skating and ice hockey matches. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy the atmosphere of a lively Swiss winter destination while taking in the beauty of Saint Moritz. For families, there is a separate section for young skaters, where they can learn the basics of skating in a safe environment.
Additionally, the Eisbahn St. Moritz is home to several skating events during the winter months. The rink often hosts ice skating shows, figure skating competitions, and exhibitions that showcase the talents of world-class skaters. If you’re lucky, you might even catch an international ice hockey game.
Location: Via Maistra, St. Moritz
Open: Winter season (usually from December to February)
Facilities: Rental skates, cafes, and a children’s skating area.
2. Lej da Staz Ice Rink
For those looking for a more natural ice skating experience, Lej da Staz offers a picturesque alternative to the traditional rinks. This beautiful frozen lake is located just a short distance from Saint Moritz and provides a unique outdoor skating experience surrounded by snow-covered trees and towering mountains. Skating on the frozen lake is a truly magical experience, as the setting feels like something out of a winter fairy tale.
Lej da Staz is perfect for those who want to enjoy ice skating in a serene, tranquil environment. The lake is large enough to allow skaters to roam freely across the ice, making it ideal for both casual skaters and those who enjoy a more leisurely pace. There are no barriers or boards here, so you can glide across the open space, taking in the fresh alpine air.
Because this rink is a natural ice surface, it is important to check with local authorities to ensure that the ice is thick enough for safe skating. The ice usually forms in December and remains in good condition until March, depending on weather conditions. It is also worth noting that, unlike traditional rinks, there are no rental skates available at Lej da Staz, so you will need to bring your own equipment.
Location: Lej da Staz, a short drive or walk from St. Moritz
Open: December to March (weather permitting)
Facilities: Natural ice surface, no skate rentals, scenic surroundings.
3. Corviglia Ice Rink
For those who are looking for a more challenging skating experience, the Corviglia Ice Rink located at the top of the Corviglia mountain offers the perfect combination of high-altitude skating and breathtaking views. This rink is situated at an elevation of over 2,000 meters, providing a unique opportunity to skate while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding Alps.
Corviglia is a smaller, more exclusive rink compared to Eisbahn St. Moritz, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. It’s also a fantastic place for professional skaters who are looking to practice or for those interested in ice hockey, as the rink is equipped with boards and nets.
The Corviglia Ice Rink is part of the Corviglia ski area, which is known for its excellent slopes and modern facilities. After a day of skiing or snowboarding, you can head to the rink for a relaxing ice skating session. The rink is also home to various events, including ice hockey tournaments and figure skating exhibitions.
Location: Corviglia, at the top of the Corviglia ski area
Open: Winter season (typically from December to March)
Facilities: Ice hockey and figure skating, rental skates, and spectacular views.
4. Samedan Ice Rink
Located in the neighboring village of Samedan, the Samedan Ice Rink is another fantastic option for those looking for a place to skate in the Saint Moritz region. The rink is larger than some of the others in the area, making it a great choice for both recreational and competitive skaters. It is especially popular with families, as the rink is spacious and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming.
Samedan Ice Rink offers a variety of skating opportunities, including public sessions, figure skating, and ice hockey. It’s also a great place for beginners to get started, as the rink is equipped with skating aids for young children and first-time skaters. The rink also offers rental skates, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own equipment.
In addition to skating, the Samedan Ice Rink is also home to several events throughout the winter season, including local ice hockey matches and figure skating shows. It’s a great place to enjoy the festive winter atmosphere of the Engadine region while participating in some winter sports.
Location: Samedan, a 10-minute drive from Saint Moritz
Open: Winter season (usually from December to February)
Facilities: Rental skates, ice hockey and figure skating events, children’s skating aids.
5. St. Moritz-Celerina Olympic Bobrun Ice Rink
For those looking to combine ice skating with a touch of excitement, the St. Moritz-Celerina Olympic Bobrun Ice Rink is a unique and thrilling option. This world-famous rink is home to the St. Moritz-Celerina Olympic Bobsleigh Run, one of the only natural ice bobsleigh tracks in the world. While it’s primarily known for bobsleighing, the rink also offers opportunities for ice skating, providing a one-of-a-kind experience.
The St. Moritz-Celerina Olympic Bobrun Ice Rink is located just outside of Saint Moritz, between the town and the village of Celerina. While the focus is on the bobsleigh events, there are designated times for recreational ice skating on the track, where you can glide around the curves of this legendary course. The atmosphere is electric, as the track is used for both training and international competitions, making it a great place to catch a glimpse of elite athletes in action.
Skating here offers a thrilling experience, as the ice is extremely smooth and fast. However, this rink is not for beginners, as the track can be challenging. If you’re an experienced skater looking for a unique challenge, this rink is an excellent choice.
Location: St. Moritz-Celerina Olympic Bobrun, near Celerina
Open: Winter season (for ice skating, usually on selected days)
Facilities: Ice skating on a bobsleigh track, rental skates, thrilling atmosphere.
Conclusion
Saint Moritz is a winter wonderland with some of the best ice skating rinks in the world. Whether you prefer skating on natural lakes, at high altitudes with panoramic views, or at world-class facilities, this alpine town offers a variety of options to suit all tastes and skill levels. From the Eisbahn St. Moritz in the heart of the town to the scenic Lej da Staz and the thrilling St. Moritz-Celerina Olympic Bobrun Ice Rink, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy ice skating in this Swiss gem.
When planning your visit, be sure to check the opening times and availability of each rink, as conditions can vary throughout the season. With its perfect combination of sport, scenery, and luxury, Saint Moritz is the ultimate destination for ice skating enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable experience in the Swiss Alps.
