Switzerland
St Moritz effectively invented winter tourism, and a century and a half later it remains the alpine resort against which glamour is measured. Set on a frozen lake in the high Engadin, it pairs champagne-climate sunshine — the town claims the sparkling light as its trademark — with palace hotels that have hosted European society since the belle époque.
The pleasures are seasonal and singular: skiing on Corviglia's groomed miles, horse racing on the frozen lake, and a summer of sailing, hiking and glacier-bound railway journeys. St Moritz wears its formality lightly in the mountains' presence, but dressing for dinner is still part of the performance.
The upper town holds the legendary palace hotels, designer boutiques and direct access to the Corviglia funicular.
The lakeside spa quarter offers a quieter setting, wellness-focused hotels and walks along the frozen or sparkling lake.
Neighbouring villages provide alpine charm and access to the Diavolezza glacier runs at gentler prices and pace.
The village concentrates a remarkable density of fine dining, from palace-hotel gastronomy to fondue huts reached on skis. Après-ski runs from mountain champagne bars to discreet cellar clubs that keep going late in season. Tables at altitude and in town alike reward booking well ahead.
Families find superb ski schools, sledging runs and ice-skating on the lake, with the Diavolezza glacier adding summer snow. The palace hotels run polished kids' programmes, and the Bernina railway's panoramic carriages delight all ages.
Couples come for firelit suites, spa afternoons and torch-lit descents followed by fondue for two. A private ride on the Glacier Express or a moonlit walk across the frozen lake gives St Moritz its winter-fairytale register.
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