Undoubtedly the most “see and be seen” hotel in St. Moritz is Badrutt’s Palace. The second oldest five star hotel in the iconic winter sports destination, this hotel was started by the son of Joseph Badrutt – the founder of tourism in St. Moritz. A grand hotel of the highest magnitude, you’ll enjoy the scenery indoor and out. With an impressive collection of antique furniture and art showcasing majestic views through the picturesque windows, sitting in the lobby of Badrutt’s is magical. Our visit began when we were picked up by Queen Elizabeth’s former Rolls Royce, one of several house cars.
This grand hotel sits in the heart of downtown, and hosts luxury shops including Kiton, Cartier, and Santoni. Step across the street for a quick trip to Dior or Louis Vuitton. Last year we saw a giant gift wrapped Louis Vuitton steamer trunk being hand delivered to a guest of the hotel.
Badrutt’s offers a wide variety of restaurants serving everything from casual club sandwiches and sushi to pizza and fine dining. Sit in front of the picture window in Le Grande Hall for tea or lunch, or order cocktails and enjoy the live piano music at night. Men, be sure to bring your jacket though, as it’s required after 7:30pm in all public areas of the hotel.
Just a short walk from the hotel is Chesa Veglia. It’s a farmhouse built in 1658, which now houses a private club and several restaurants. It was closed when we visited this year, but we went last year for lunch and it was spectacular. We’ve also heard the pizzeria is not to be missed.
For something healthy and light, head to Diala. You’ll find salads and juices, which are also offered at the pool. The artichoke salad with mozzarella was delicious and we’ll be sharing it with you in our Taste Edit Magazine on St. Moritz soon. You can be the first to receive it and pre order your copy now.
If you love sushi like we do, you’re in luck! Set in Europe’s first indoor tennis, Matsuhisa from Nobu serves internationally renowned Japanese fare high in the Alps. In the winter, the entire team from Matsuhisa in Mykonos, Greece relocates to Badrutt’s for the season.
For a real fine dining treat, head to IGNIV, Badrutt’s two Michelin starred restaurant. The team from Schloss Schauenstein relocates to Badrutt’s each winter to bring innovative shared plates and an amazing wine list. Some of our favorite dishes include the seafood stew, the chocolate nest, and the lightest lemon souffle. Don’t forget at the end to make a stop at the “candy shop.” Remarkably, all of the chocolates and confections are made in house. Even if you don’t have room to eat them now, you can bring home a box to indulge later.
The design of IGNIV was stunning. There are four IGNIV restaurants that have all been designed by Italian designer Patricia Urquiola. For IGNIV St Moritz, she kept some of the traditional historical elements of Badrutt’s and layered over her modern flair of furniture, lighting, and elements to create a hip and inviting space.
The outdoor heated pool at night is a must. If you go to the end, there is a button that you can push to request beverages. Imagine soaking in a steaming hot pool with a glass of champagne on a crisp night overlooking the snow-covered pine trees. It’s truly magical.
Badrutt’s Palace, Via Serlas 27, 7500 St. Moritz Note: Badrutt’s Palace provided support for the reporting of this story.
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