St Moritz, world famous for its glamorous reputation, has hosted the Olympics and World Championships. In 2015 it celebrated 150 years of winter tourism. That’s when Johannes Badrutt persuaded British tourists, with a money back guarantee, that sunny St Moritz was the place for winter sports. It also has a lesser known side: that of its ancient Romansh culture, language, and heritage. You see it in the indigenous sgrafitto architecture, signage and hear it in local conversations. Foremost though is the natural beauty of St. Moritz. This sophisticated town, curves like a crescent moon around its lake, is crowned by glacier-draped peaks. It also has the nerve wracking Cresta and bobsled runs; golf, polo and horse racing each winter on its lake; and almost unlimited window-shopping, for any European designer worth his salt, has a boutique here. For foodies, as of 2021, there are four Michelin starred restaurants in town. For passive intrigue, afternoon tea at Hanselmann’s is a must, offering some of the best people watching anywhere.

Then there is St. Moritz’ legendary skiing – where it all started, the cradle of winter tourism. It’s the only resort to host the Olympics and the World Championships twice – all for good reason: there are 16 ski areas in two valleys included on the ski pass. Some of the 217 miles of trails may have pink snow blown north by Sahara winds. There are 56 lifts and Europe’s first six-passenger chair. Today the newest technology takes you to the pistes and to more than 34 mountain restaurants for revival and enjoyment. All are interconnected by train or post bus included in your ski pass. Cross country enthusiasts can join 13,000 others in early March for the annual marathon. After, to recover, go to their Hallenbad spa dating from Roman times.