Saint Moritz

Saint Moritz (or St. Moritz) is one of Switzerland's most famous mountain resorts, located in the Engadin valley of the Swiss Alps. Known for its sparkling lake, luxury hotels and high-end boutiques, this place has been attracting the elite since the mid-19th century.

What many don't know is that St. Moritz actually pioneered winter tourism in the Alps. Back in 1864, a hotel owner named Johannes Badrutt made a bet with his British summer guests that winter in St. Moritz was just as pleasant as summer - and thus began its reputation as a winter wonderland. The town has even hosted the Winter Olympics twice, in 1928 and 1948.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, St. Moritz offers incredible Alpine scenery with pristine mountain lakes and forests. The area is known for its 'champagne climate' - dry air with lots of sunshine throughout the year. During winter, visitors can enjoy the frozen lake where horse races and cricket tournaments are held, creating a unique spectacle against the snow-covered mountains.

The local Engadin culture is also fascinating, with its own Romansh language still spoken by some locals. The town balances modern luxury with Alpine traditions, making it more than just another ski resort.