Today is

By: Ikedi Ani-okoye

Skiing

Located in Switzerland's Engadine Valley, about three hours from Zurich by road or rail, St. Moritz was originally renowned for its mineral springs. However, all that changed in the mi5-nineteenth Century with the birth of winter tourism and modem-day winter sports. As home of the famous Cresta toboggan run and two-time host of the Winter Olympic Games, it is no surprise that activities like skiing and snow boarding are St. Moritz staples; the resort has no fewer than 59 ski and chair lifts, and challenging slopes everywhere.

It also boasts a multitude of other sports, some of them quite unexpected; each February, the town's kozen lake plays host to White Turf horse races, and polo and cricket matches are also held on the ice. These activities do not take place in isolation,as they are supported by a breathtaking backdrop eff snow-capped peaks, blue lakes and verdant forests.

Hiking trails crisscross the area and Blow those who want a rest from sports to explore this stunning Alpine landscape in greater depth. There are also a variety of places to visit in town, including an ancient Druidic stone, 12th century leaning tower and a soon-to-open Olympic Museum - as well as lots of bars and clubs for evening entertainment. St. Moritz's success is not entirety dependent upon the winter.

When the snows melt, the landscape takes on a dramatic new appearance, and the range of activities on ofter also changes. The resort is particularly renowned for its dry, sparkling 'champagne climate.' It sees an astonishing 322 days of sun in the average year, and only its altitude keeps the slopes white during the winter.

St. Moritz's choice of logo, a blazing sun, is highly appropriates This year, St. Moritz focuses upon the hospitality industry as it celebrates "150 Years Of St. MOTilit Hotels.n Owe StlCh hOtd iS the five-star Suvreta House. It was buit by Anton Bon in 1911-12, but since 1989 has been run by Swiss-born Vic and Helen Jacob. Set in a tranquil location away from the bustle of the town centre, it combines a fairy-tale castle façade and encircling trees iedth a range of facilities.

Outside the hoteh are four rinks for curting and another for ice skating, along with a 360c whifipool jacuzzi. Indoors, those who prefer their bathing to be less extreme enjoy the heated swimming pool, and get further exercise from workouts in the 'Gymnasticum,' And if all that gets too tiring, they can go to clear their pores in the sauna or breathe in the mountain air on the sun terrace - as well as having access to a number o1 bars, restaurants and exclusive shopping boutiques located within the hotel itself.

The Suvretta House dining experience has unique appeal for both children and adults. 'The Teddy Club' restaurant caters exclusively for kids, allowing them to eat together away from the adults. Meanwhile, their parents get to engage in refined ritual, with formalwear the prescribed dress for evening dinners in the Grand Restaurant (though the Suvretta-Stube Club is available for less formal dining). Skiing is the lifeblood of St. Moritz, and has always been important at Suvretta House.

In 1936, the hotel set up what was Switzerland's and probably the world's - first ever ski lift, and its ski school, founded in 1925, today employs some 160 instructors. Suvretta House also has that seasonal flexibility which cheracSerises St. Moritz as a whole; in summer the skating rink turns into tennis courts, and previously snow-bound facilities become available again. For example, the driving range and putting green located within the hotel grounds allow golfing enthusiasts to practise their swing before leaving for the 18-hole, par-72 course at nearby Samedan.

Whether they want to brave the rigour of winter sports, gaze at scenery or simply luxuriate in the presence of the well-known and well-to-do, anything is possible for visitors St. Moritz. In the wilds of this beautiful mountain resort, they might even spot an ibex or a Tengmalm's owl. And who would want to miss that?

www.stmoritz.ch St. Moritz tourist office.