The Swiss Alps are blessed with beautiful scenery and some very luxurious places to stay. Among these, GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ stands out in the beautiful Engadine valley. This article will guide you through its unique blend of history, contemporary design and world-class amenities.
Taking its name from the Piz La Margna mountain, the property originally opened in 1906. GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ has been extensively renovated and is now a 5 star deluxe hotel benefitting from the addition of a modern wing.
Overview of GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ
GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ offers an unforgettable experience in the upper Engadine region. The property has recently joined the elite group of American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts.
This luxurious boutique hotel skillfully combines its rich history with contemporary design, showcasing two distinct wings: the restored art nouveau La Margna Wing and the modern Grace Wing.
Visitors have a choice of 74 indulgent rooms and suites, each offering unique views and amenities designed for comfort and elegance. Many boast floor-to-ceiling windows, so that guests can immerse themselves in Lake St Moritz’s serene beauty right from their room.
Originally designed in 1906 by Nicolaus Hartmann, the hotel has been remodelled by Divercity Architects to seamlessly blend traditional charm with urban touches. Interior styling was by Carole Topin and Divercity, who previously worked together on the Aegon Mykonos and the Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz.
The GRACE LA MARGNA difference
The GRACE LA MARGNA difference lies in its attentive and friendly staff, stunning lake views, and modern amenities. The hotel offers a beautifully designed bar and lounge area, and all rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
Guests can enjoy world-class amenities like the wellness area and access to outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. This haven within the Swiss Alps is the only 5 star St Moritz hotel that is open all year round.
With a prime location near St Moritz train station and the town centre, GRACE LA MARGNA stands out as a luxury hotel in St Moritz. Guests can easily venture out to nearby boutiques and art galleries along Via Serlas.
Attentive and friendly staff
Arriving at GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ, you’re greeted by attentive and friendly multilingual staff. General Manager David Frei and team are known for their warm hospitality, offering assistance with a genuine smile and a prompt response to any requests.
From check-in at the Soglio granite and brass desk to dining recommendations, guests can expect personalized attention from the team, creating a memorable experience that goes beyond expectations. With a dedicated focus on guest satisfaction, the staff’s exceptional service truly sets GRACE LA MARGNA apart as the best hotel in St Moritz.
Location in the charming Engadine valley
GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ sits within the stunning Engadine valley, a location celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty. This is one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland, with celebrities such as Roger Moore and Brigitte Bardot flocking here over the years.
St Moritz itself has hosted the Winter Olympic Games twice, in 1928 and 1948. The town is famous for its Cresta Run, a racing bobsled run with natural ice, and its outdoor Olympic Ice Rink.
Surrounded by the majestic Alps, guests enjoy serene lake views and direct access to an array of outdoor activities all year round. Whether it’s hitting the slopes for skiing, exploring hiking trails, or golfing amidst panoramic landscapes, this 5 star superior hotel in Switzerland makes it effortless to connect with nature.
The stunning lake views from GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ are truly breathtaking. Guests can enjoy the picturesque scenery of Lake St. Moritz and the surrounding mountains right from their rooms or the hotel terrace, creating a serene and tranquil ambiance throughout their stay.
Rich history combined with contemporary design
Offering the best of both worlds, GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ merges Belle Epoque architecture with contemporary design. This unique blend showcases how tradition and modernity can coexist harmoniously under one roof.
The hotel’s structure, originally built in 1906, has been carefully preserved to highlight its art nouveau roots while integrating sleek, modern touches that appeal to today’s luxury traveler. The restoration process paid careful attention to detail, from the stylish new Reception to each elegantly appointed room.
Throughout the property, guests can admire the impressive art collection, with photography by Jürg Kaufmann and Federico Sette. On the terrace, don’t miss the trio of Evelyne Brader-Frank sculptures celebrating the female form.
Rooms and Suites
GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ offers a choice of 74 luxurious rooms and suites in two wings. They are equipped with bespoke amenities, tailored towards enhancing the guest experience.
The modern Grace Wing features 27 air-conditioned rooms and suites boasting floor to ceiling windows. The 215 sq m Penthouse Suite has a large private terrace with a whirlpool bath overlooking the lake.
I stayed in a stunning lake-view room in the La Margna Wing, which has 47 beautifully appointed rooms and suites. This landmark building has stylish stone clad bathrooms, together with light carpet, brass fixtures and pale timber in the relaxing bedroom.
All rooms have amenities such as Sjöstrand espresso machines and Stoll coffee, flat-screen TVs, Frette throws and bedlinen, Elite beds, Feuerstein toiletries, B&O Bluetooth speakers and Dyson hairdryers.
There’s a rucksack, umbrella and towelling spa bag to borrow, together with plush towelling robes and slippers in both small and large sizes. As well as the great range of different pillows on the bed, you can use the in-room tablet to choose from a pillow menu.
I loved the in-room culinary welcome of fresh apples from Eastern Switzerland, crunchy apple slices and the hotel’s signature Engadine nut cake. Guests can also help themselves to a complimentary first round of the mini bar selection, which includes protein bars, crisps, soft drinks, nuts and other delicious snacks.
World-Class facilities
GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ offers an array of world-class amenities for guests to enjoy.
The charming Moritzville Kids Club will keep little ones occupied, while adults will be impressed by the boutique that stocks Taschen books, Frette throws and other luxurious gifts and accessories.
There are ski lockers and a ski maintenance service is on offer within the hotel. The sports shop, Ski Service Corvatsch, has a good range of hiking clothes and ski wear. You can also hire ski equipment and e-bikes here.
Spa and Fitness
The 700 square metre spa area creates a serene and rejuvenating atmosphere for guests. The SPA Lounge is a perfect place to unwind and relax while enjoying the breathtaking mountain vistas.
The 20 meter indoor pool has direct access to an outdoor terrace with picture perfect Alpine views. There’s a Finnish sauna, Bio Salt sauna, steam bath, wellness showers and Vitaly Pool with counter current system and massage loungers.
Guests can also indulge in pampering treatments such as massages in this tranquil setting, enhancing their overall experience of luxury and relaxation. I had a fantastic Mountain Glow Facial which left my skin glowing and smooth. This is a great treatment to have on the morning of a special occasion or the night before.
A private SPA Suite with its very own whirlpool bath and lounge area is available to book. The fitness centre has the latest TechnoGym equipment and is open 24/7.
Food and Drink Experiences
Guests can savour delicious meals on site, while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding Alps. Executive Chef Andrea Bonini’s fine dining restaurant, THE VIEW, elevates the culinary experience.
The restaurant offers a tantalizing menu featuring à la carte and innovative dishes, showcasing the chef’s expertise in creating exquisite flavours.
Breakfast here is a hearty affair, with a wide selection of hot and cold dishes such as shakshuka and omelettes. I loved the honeycomb, Swiss cheeses and fresh fruits. As well as breakfast and dinner, I enjoyed a pizza-making workshop by the wood-fired oven.
The restaurant has a beautifully designed space with a sculpted wooden ceiling evoking the rays of the sun. Together with the floor to ceiling windows, this really helps to give an indoor-outdoor ambiance.
The adjacent N/5 – THE BAR offers guests and locals a chic yet informal ambiance to unwind. With its bespoke cocktails and carefully curated wine selection, the hotel’s bar is a perfect spot to relax after a day of outdoor activities in the Engadine valley.
The show-stopping feature is a seven metre long bar made from 8 tonnes of Carrara marble stone. The Molteni&C bespoke furniture is so comfy that you’ll want to stay for hours here!
Large windows give panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, while the soft gray and silver colour scheme is inspired by the mountains. There’s a stage and piano for live performances, and free jazz sessions take place on certain weekends.
Bar manager Mirco Giumelli and team rustle up some amazing cocktails and coffees. There’s even a special machine that can print an image of your face or an emblem on some drinks. Another fun feature is a set of tarot cards that you can choose a card from, and the bar team will make you the corresponding cocktail!
I really enjoyed a mocktail making session, where we also learned about the history of cocktails. No wonder N/5 – THE BAR has achieved a Top 3 position in the Swiss Locations Awards 2024 for Bars and Clubs,
as well as nominations for the Swiss Bar Awards in two categories: Best Bar Menu and Best Hotel
Bar.
Hotel guests can book afternoon tea in THE LIVING ROOM for a special treat. Take in the lake views from the heritage-protected windows and relax by the original marble fireplace. The Art Nouveau iron chandeliers and arches are complimented by the Pierre Frey carpet in this room inspired by Lake St Moritz.
Walk up the stairs from here and you’ll find The Cigar Lounge, a cosy space with an open fireplace. The adjacent outdoor terrace is a lovely spot for a drink overlooking the lake.
There are also two other seasonal restaurants that open in Wintertime. THE STACK has an original Art Nouveau ceilings, wood panelling and large windows. The Max Moritz is a cosy restaurant that can also be booked as an event space.
Recommended Activities in St Moritz
Guests at Hotel Grace La Margna St Moritz can enjoy access to a range of outdoor activities, enhancing their stay with unforgettable experiences in the beautiful Engadine valley. In Summertime, a complimentary local transportation pass is included for guests staying two nights or more.
Here are a few of the activities available:
- Engadine Valley exploration: Take advantage of the hotel’s prime location to embark on scenic walks or hikes in the picturesque Engadine valley.
- Golfing: Enjoy a round of golf at a nearby golf course, boasting stunning Alpine views and immaculately maintained fairways.
- Skiing adventures: With easy access to the slopes and ski lift stations, guests can indulge in exhilarating skiing adventures during the winter months, making the most of St Moritz’s renowned skiing opportunities. The Hahnensee run is also known as the King’s Run and one of the best in the world. The ski area of Diavolezza is also within easy reach.
- Cocktail or mocktail masterclass at N/5 – The Bar, where you’ll learn about the history of cocktails.
- Fine dining at THE VIEW: an exceptional culinary experience curated by Executive Chef Andrea Bonini, showcasing delectable dishes using locally-sourced ingredients.
- Pizza making class in THE VIEW, suitable for adults and children.
- E-biking: Tour the lakeside and admire the stunning views. Start at Lake St Moritz and carry on to Silvaplana if you’re feeling energetic.
- Picnic at Lake Lej Marsch – and a dip in the lake!
- Bespoke day trip to Lake Como, Chur, Davos or Milan.
- Music concerts in St Moritz town – many of which are free.
- Yoga and swim at 8.30 am every Tuesday and Friday, complimentary for hotel guests.
- Facial or massage at the spa – there’s a wide choice, from beauty treatments to couples’ massages.
These activities perfectly complement the luxurious experience offered by Hotel Grace La Margna St Moritz, ensuring that guests have an unforgettable and fulfilling stay.
How to Get to GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ
The hotel boasts a convenient location near the train station, providing easy access for guests arriving by rail. In addition, it offers close proximity to various local restaurants and cafes, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding culinary scene effortlessly.
If you have time, we highly recommend taking the Rhaetian Railway of Albula/Bernina from Zurich to St Moritz, which is actually a UNESCO World Heritage mountain railway. As you can imagine, the scenery is simply breathtaking!
The Glacier Express train is another scenic option, travelling from St Moritz to Zermatt in 8 hours.
The nearest airport is Milan Bergamo | Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY), 2.5 hours drive from the hotel, while Milan Malpensa (MXP) and Zurich Airport (ZRH) are also close at 2 hours and 45 minutes approximate drive.
Conclusion
With its blend of Belle Époque charm and contemporary refinement, GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ offers guests an unparalleled experience in one of Switzerland’s most prestigious destinations.
The attentive staff, stunning lake views, and modern room amenities make for a truly unique experience. Whether visiting for the renowned winter sports, the summer hiking trails, or to bask in the atmosphere of this legendary resort town, guests are sure to depart with memories of an extraordinary Swiss sojourn.
Address:
GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ, Via Serlas 5, 7500 St. Moritz, Switzerland
Tel: +41 81 832 22 10
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