Sankt Moritz is a mondaine mountain resort in the Engadin valley in Switzerland. In 1864 Sankt Moritz welcomed the first winter tourist and that makes it the birthplace of winter tourism in the Alps. It has hosted the Winter Olympics twice, has the Cresta Run, a world-championship bobsled run made of natural ice, and an outdoor Olympic ice rink. Its frozen lake hosts polo, cricket and even horse racing on ice. Ski and snowboard areas include Corviglia, Diavolezza and Corvatsch, and there are well-groomed cross-country ski trails. Add 300 days of sunshine a year and first class restaurants and it is easy to understand why Sankt Moritz is so popular with the rich and famous. Our team of travel experts ranked the Top 10 best hotels in Sankt Moritz. From refined spa hotels to historic and world famous luxury hotels.
10. Nira Alpina Silvaplana
9. Hotel Walther Pontresina
8. Grand Hotel Kronenhof Pontresina
7. Hotel Waldhaus Sils
6. Giardino Mountain
5. Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski
The Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains holds its place as the fifth jewel among St. Moritz’s “Big Five,” combining historical grandeur with a more contemporary, international feel. Originally opened in the 19th century above a natural mineral spring, the hotel blends Belle Époque architecture—complete with twin turrets and elegant facades—with updated interiors that prioritize comfort and modern luxury. Its standout feature is the expansive 2,800 m² spa, fed by the Mauritius spring, which includes saunas, indoor and outdoor pools, Kneipp baths, and even cryotherapy. Positioned directly at the base of the Signalbahn cable car, it also offers excellent ski access.
Inside, the hotel features 184 rooms and suites with spacious layouts, marble bathrooms, and Alpine views. The atmosphere is less traditional than at Kulm or Suvretta, but it appeals to travelers who appreciate efficient service, generous wellness offerings, and a more international crowd. Dining ranges from Italian classics to Michelin-starred fine dining at Cà d’Oro, while stylish lounges and a relaxed bar scene make it a well-rounded base after a day on the slopes. While it lacks the family-run intimacy or old-world charm of some of its peers, the Kempinski impresses with scale, comfort, and a quiet confidence that makes it a solid number five in the St. Moritz hotel hierarchy. Our team has stayed here on multiple occasions and has very fond memories but in Summer as well as in Winter.
4. Suvretta House
Suvretta House, built in 1912, sits slightly apart from central St. Moritz in a quiet, wooded setting, giving it the feel of a grand alpine estate. Known for its classic Belle Époque style and understated elegance, it is the only hotel in town with direct ski-in/ski-out access, including its own private ski lift to the Corviglia slopes. With over 180 rooms, a large spa and pool area, and several dining options including mountain restaurants, Suvretta offers both scale and serenity. While it ranks just behind the Carlton in terms of exclusivity, its loyal clientele, family-run heritage, and old-world atmosphere make it a firm number four among St. Moritz’s Big Five.
3. Carlton Hotel Sankt Moritz
The Carlton Hotel St. Moritz, built in 1913, is the most intimate of St. Moritz’s renowned “Big Five” luxury hotels. With just 60 suites, all facing the lake and mountains, it offers a quieter, more exclusive atmosphere than its grander peers. Refurbished by designer Carlo Rampazzi, the interiors blend classical elegance with bold, colorful touches. Guests enjoy Michelin-starred dining at Da Vittorio, a three-level spa with panoramic views, and thoughtful experiences like glacier walks and guided wellness activities. While it ranks just behind Kulm Hotel and Badrutt’s Palace in legacy and visibility, it stands out for personal service and privacy. The other members of the Big Five include Suvretta House and the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains—each with its own distinct style and following.
2. Badrutt’s Palace Hotel
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel is an iconic presence in St. Moritz, known for its fairy-tale architecture and lakeside setting. Opened in 1896 by Caspar Badrutt, the son of the Kulm Hotel’s founder, it carries a rich legacy of hospitality and old-world glamour. With its turrets and grand interiors, the hotel has long attracted royals, celebrities, and skiers seeking classic Alpine luxury. Its standout features include a large indoor pool with lake views, a historic ballroom, and a variety of dining options, including Michelin-starred cuisine.
While it’s a close contender, Badrutt’s Palace ranks just behind Kulm in terms of historic importance and understated charm. Kulm was the birthplace of winter tourism and retains a quieter elegance, while Badrutt’s is better known for its social scene and grandeur. Both offer world-class service, but Kulm’s deeper roots and slightly more intimate feel give it the edge.
1. Kulm Hotel Sankt Moritz
Hotel Kulm in St. Moritz stands out as a true pioneer of Alpine luxury. Founded in 1856 by Johannes Badrutt—whose legendary wager in 1864 helped kickstart winter tourism—it sits majestically above Lake St. Moritz, offering sweeping mountain and lakeside views framed by historic architecture and elegant interiors.
What really sets the Kulm apart are its blend of storied heritage and thoughtful amenities: it boasts a 2,000 m² spa with indoor and outdoor pools, whirlpools, saunas, and fitness studios; a nine-hole golf course and tennis courts in summer; and its own ice rink, curling rink, the iconic Cresta Run, plus a Bob Run on‑site in winter. Add in refined multi‑restaurant dining, impeccable concierge service, and antique-filled public spaces where the first electric chandeliers in Switzerland once glowed—and you have a grand hotel that captures both Alpine adventure and elegant, timeless charm.
Here is what our editor had to say after staying at the Kulm in Sankt Moritz:
“The facilities and rooms are perfect but what makes or breaks a luxury hotel experience is the service. Kulm has a very high staff to guest ratio and it shows throughout. The service is very professional and friendly. Most staff we encountered spoke multiple languages and were always happy to help. The Kulm proved to be one of the best hotels in Switzerland.” Read the full review.
