For anyone who has dreams of sleighing through a snow brushed forest, St.Moritz’s Schlitteda Engiadinaisa is your chance.
On January 14th, after donning a traditional top hat and cape, local men dig up the old sleighs hidden in their storage, look for a good horse, and join in one of the oldest traditions of Engadine.
Followed by legions of folk dancers, each sleigh rider picks up a lucky (or not so lucky) woman. Adorned in a traditional red Swiss dress, she’ll have to cling tightly to the back of her driver in order to keep from falling off this bumpy ride.
You might find the Schlitteda in other villages of the region, but it is an ancient tradition that is taken very seriously by the locals of Engadine. Each horse and sleigh are beautifully decorated to compliment the colorful wears of the riders. This is the perfect occasion to observe the traditional clothing of Southeast Switzerland.
A look inside St.Moritz
If you were looking for a winter wonderland, you’ve found it. Near to the Alps, and settled alongside Engadine’s lakescape at 1,856 meters above sea level, the town has been a world-famous winter resort since 1894. Switzerland’s first tourist office was established in this town in that same year.
The 1722 meter long ice channel
Also known as the world’s biggest ice sculpture, this bob sled is built every winter from the ground up using only snow and water. In fact it is the oldest and last remaining natural bob run on earth.
Chesa Veglia
Dating all the way back to 1658, Chesa Veglia is one of the oldest farm houses of the area. But you won’t any cows or chickens here, this ancient farmhouse has since been converted into three different restaurants and two different bars.
Hiking
It’s likely to be one of the best experiences you have here. There are over 580 km of hiking trails scattered around St.Moritz. Some scenic hikes include the mountains of Corviglia and Muottas Muragl. Most trails are handicapable! Even handicapped visitors can enjoy a hike, as 9 of the trails are wheelchair accessible.
(One of the best things about staying in St.Moritz is that the cable cars are included if staying at a hotel for two nights or longer.)
Want to learn more about Switzerland? Try a map!
