St Moritz: Summer Wellness With a Side of Swiss Charm at Hotel Grace La Margna

When you think of St. Moritz, the first images that probably come to mind are snow-capped mountains, glamorous ski resorts, Winter Olympics and après-ski lounges where the champagne flows as easily as the conversation. However, let's shake off that wintery imagery and fast-forward to summer, where the town undergoes a transformation as stunning as the switch from mulled wine to a crisp Chardonnay.

Welcome to summer in this charming gem of the Alps, a season that somehow makes this already magical destination even more enchanting. The luxury is still very much alive (after all, we’re talking about an iconic resort), but it’s now paired with an intoxicating blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure and an unexpected amount of sunshine. They don’t call it the "Top of the World" just because of the altitude!

While the snow steals the spotlight in winter, it’s the breathtaking scenery that takes center stage in summer. The Engadin Valley, perched 18,500 feet above sea level, transforms into a vibrant green landscape dotted with deep blue lakes, wildflower meadows and those legendary jagged peaks. If you’re not careful, the views alone might steal hours away from your day - staring at them is oddly addictive and rather therapeutic.

Long renowned for luxury, wellness and health, the town’s legacy dates back to the 19th century, although these roots extend back much further, with mineral springs first discovered over 3,000 years ago. Known for its "champagne climate" - crisp, dry air and abundant sunshine - combined with its restorative waters, its "spa culture" flourished as European aristocracy and the wealthy elite flocked here for rejuvenation in the Swiss Alps.

For those with an adventurous streak, there’s also a plethora of outdoor activities on offer, with hiking being an obvious choice. Trails range from easy lakeside strolls to challenging climbs that’ll leave your legs burning (but your Instagram feed on fire!). For the truly brave, there’s always mountain biking, where the descent down steep trails is as thrilling as any ski run. However, if you prefer to glide instead, the region’s lakes offer windsurfing and kite surfing against a backdrop that makes you feel like you’re starring in your own adventure movie! Speaking of lakes, Lake St Moritz is an absolute must-see: in warm seasons, its icy winter surface gives way to a sparkling body of water - perfect for sailing, paddleboarding or just dipping your toes in while contemplating life’s big questions (or mentally drifting away by the beauty of it all)!

Hotel GRACE LA MARGNA 

If you've ever dreamt of escaping to the Swiss Alps and living like royalty (even just for a short while), then the GRACE LA MARGNA awaits. This luxurious new addition to St Moritz (the first newly-built five-star hotel in 50 years) doesn’t just promise luxury, it delivers it with a knowing smile - as if to say, “yes, this is paradise, and yes, you absolutely deserve it.”

A historic gem since 1906 (and one of only six five-star hotels in the area, open year-round), this grand dame has seen it all, yet remains as graceful as ever. Having hosted royals and countless romantic escapades, it boasts stories that would make even the most hardened travel writer swoon. But don’t worry, the amenities have all been recently updated - no more choosing between the latest spa treatment or curling up with a good book by the fire, now you can enjoy both in style!

What’s truly special about this place is how it bridges the gap between past and present. Originally brought to life in 1906 by Swiss architect Nicolaus Hartmann, the La Margna building has been a local landmark for over a century. Positioned just a stone’s throw from the St Moritz station (on a UNESCO World Heritage railway line, no less), this architectural landmark offers jaw-dropping mountain and valley views that might just make you forget to unpack and lose track of time instead.

Inside, the original La Margna Wing has been lovingly restored to its former glory, while the brand new Grace Wing brings a modern twist to the table; the two buildings are like perfectly paired wine and cheese - distinct, yet harmoniously complementary. The new wing, clad in sleek beige moleanos limestone, cleverly mirrors the playful grid of windows from the original façade whilst preserving its historic character, and with 74 rooms and suites (most of them south-facing to soak in those postcard-perfect vistas), the place has been so thoughtfully curated and designed, it truly nails the high-lux boutique hotel vibe with aplomb.

The Room: Junior Deluxe Suite

Checking into my room, the view immediately took hold — the station and Lake St Moritz, framed by majestic peaks, looked so impeccably picturesque I was momentarily transfixed. The room itself was a masterclass in Alpine luxury: dark oak accents, soft neutral textures, plush bedding and a bathroom that felt more like a private mini-spa. Every detail was immaculately designed, yet there was an inviting, homely warmth that made you want to kick off your shoes and simply soak it all in.

Other notable features include the in-room iPad offering a full suite of services and on-demand options (including a comprehensive ‘Pillow Menu’ to match your mood or needs) alongside bespoke Frette linens and towels, Swiss-made Elite beds and spacious wardrobes stocked with GRACE LA MARGNA-branded essentials like a rucksack, umbrella and towel bag for use during your stay. These thoughtful touches not only elevated the experience but also created a sense of personal connection, turning guests into instant advocates

Living Room

Stepping into the communal Living Room feels like discovering the cosiest corner of luxury you never knew you needed. Heritage-protected windows, plush furniture that practically invites you to sink in and a curated selection of homemade snacks and sweets so tempting that they’re displayed like jewels in glass jars. Yes, they taste as good as they look and yes, you’ll find yourself eyeing them every time you pass by! But the real crowd-pleaser? A tea station that lets you play herbal mixologist with a range of global blends - because nothing says ‘vacation’ quite like a custom cup of tea by the fireplace.

N/5 – THE BAR

As I strolled into N/5, I couldn’t help but feel as though I’d stepped straight into the heart of what makes St Moritz tick - elegance, community and that elusive je ne sais quoi that makes you want to come back for more.

At seven meters long and carved from a single piece of Carrara marble weighing a jaw-dropping eight tonnes, the bar counter is the kind of showstopper that leaves you wondering how they even got it into the building. It’s sleek, substantial, and undeniably the pulse of the hotel - whether you're there for a quick drink or a night of live music to while away the evening.

What makes this place truly special, however, is how it seamlessly blends Swiss heritage with a contemporary vibe. It strikes the perfect balance between old-world charm and modern sophistication - where tradition meets today’s global lifestyle. Whether you're a local or just passing through, N/5 – The Bar is more than just a place for a cocktail; it’s a destination in its own right - a little slice of class you’ll be thinking about long after you’ve left.

THE VIEW Restaurant

Ever wondered what it’s like to dine inside a sunbeam? At THE VIEW at GRACE LA MARGNA, you’re literally immersed in one. Its circular form, sculpted wooden ceiling echoing solar rays and floor‑to‑ceiling windows turn this all‑day dining destination into a feast for both eyes and palate.

Whether you’re savouring a leisurely breakfast (choose from an exceptional à la carte or buffet) as mountain peaks awaken to dawn, or indulging in dinner where twilight dances across the floor, THE VIEW delivers gourmet cuisine in a setting that’s more than a restaurant: it’s an ode to the panorama outside, framed by its expansive windows.

THE GRACE SPA

After a day of sightseeing and leisurely hikes, the spa is where the real magic happens! Thoughtfully designed for your well-being, it boasts state-of-the-art facilities: a small but comprehensive gym, wellness treatments, tailored fitness programmes and a stunning mountain backdrop. The 20m swimming pool shimmers in the purest deep blue, a Vitality whirlpool lets you control powerful jets, Finnish and salt saunas, a steam room, a crushed-ice chute, plus ‘Emotional’ and ‘Aquamoon’ waterfall showers, makes this truly a wellness oasis.

Using premium Bellefontaine Switzerland, La Biosthétique, Bynacht and Eponé products, the spa’s luxurious facial and body treatments are delivered by a talented new team. From personal experience, I can’t recommend the body massage highly enough - it lulled me into such a peaceful state that I had to be gently roused and led to the Wellness Lounge to recover from my dreamy daze!

Food & Drink

Dining at GRACE LA MARGNA is an experience unto itself. The main restaurant’s menu marries local heritage with global flair, with each dish given a modern twist. Perfectly crisp veal Milanese crowned with generous ribbons of shaved truffle? Absolutely. Wood-fired pizza fresh from the oven, followed by tableside-assembled tiramisu that’s pure decadence? Without a doubt. And the staff - warm, intuitive and as though they’ve known you for years - offer recommendations with a knowing sparkle, hinting that you’re about to enjoy one of the finest meals of your life.

Behind the bar, Mirco Giumelli - bar manager and head mixologist - crafts drinks with effortless flair. Just make sure you don’t miss the beautifully illustrated ‘cocktail tarot cards,’ available in the on-site shop: a playful, inventive gift for any cocktail connoisseur.

For hands-on activities, you can book a pizza-making workshop with the head chef or a cocktail-masterclass at N/5 Bar in advance, with both sessions being lively, sociable and a great way to pick up new skills!

Summer Fun
 

In summer, GRACE LA MARGNA becomes a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Thanks to its prime lakeside location, guests enjoy seamless access to hiking trails, mountain-bike routes and water sports on Lake St Moritz. The hotel also curates guided excursions - think luxury lakeside picnics or bespoke mountain tours - so you can immerse yourself in the region’s stunning landscapes and revitalising alpine air. During our stay, we spotted athletes and health-minded visitors alike running the lakeside paths and winding roads, many altitude-training for the Paris Olympics, making this the perfect destination for anyone eager to boost their fitness and wellbeing.

FINAL THOUGHTS: The Ultimate Summer Wellness Retreat

In summary, GRACE LA MARGNA is a place where history, luxury and a bit of sophisticated charm come together to create an unforgettable experience, a destination for renewal. Whether you’re here to recharge your batteries, indulge in some self-care or simply enjoy the natural beauty of St Moritz in summer, the hotel will leave you wishing you could move in permanently. I personally couldn’t fault a thing, as both the attention to detail and the incredible staff blew me away - even down to the pretty pictures projected onto my coffee foam each morning! 

So, go ahead - treat yourself. After all, life’s too short to stay at boring hotels and take my word for it, your stay here will be nothing short of excellent.

https://www.gracehotels.com/en/destinations/grace-la-margna-st-moritz