Thinking of St Moritz & the Engadin region? -Here's my experience.

So, I’m sure we all know how much Corporate Peaks loves the mountains, the clues in the name and its where our business started and where our sister company continue to DMC of course. But discovering new mountainous regions is always something exciting for us as no two resorts/ areas are the same. There is one area we have always had an intrigue for and of course we were elated enjoy some quality time discovering this area.?

I’m sure we have all heard of the name St Moritz, well this ski area is a brand in itself of course. But the entire region of Engadin, Switzerland has something to?offer,?and spending time here has only got us excited about future events in the area.?So?to start, I was travelling from the Swiss frontier region (the French side) and getting to this neck of the world was all going to be done via train. Although the 7 hours seemed daunting at first, I was delighted to be able to get comfortable and work away given the busy time of year (lead up to ski season!) Whilst we covered some ground. Travelling to destinations by train is becoming more and more popular as we explore new travel options to suit our ever-evolving needs so I will really get into this experience with an alternative article dedicated to the use of train travel for destination events.?

On?a?whole, the travel experience was efficient, reliable and comfortable and in the end not daunting at all, even at almost 7 months pregnant! I must admit that it was hard to stay focused on my workload as the views were outstanding. The transfer became somewhat of an experience itself. It only added to the child-like excitement of getting to resort. Something that avid skiers/boarders/ mountain lovers know well as we winded up higher through the mountain tunnels on the UNESCO heritage train line until you arrive at St Moritz station itself.?

So,?let's?look?at the accommodation we explored:?

First up was the stay in the?Waldhaus?Sils-?Sils?Maria.?A very classic hotel with a passion for its family history and the stories within the walls of this Establishment. Set up overlooking the valley and surrounded by forest. It very much encapsulated escapism and was dedicated to a traditional high-end service and return clientele which means that bookings here are often made far in advance. The views were consistently beautiful, and we enjoyed the new hotel restaurant with a privatised area. If you are looking for 5* modern, then this is not the place for you. Instead, this accommodation is best suited to calm, classic comfort and with a family run preference.?Ideal for reflection and intimate meetings?in a unique setting.?

?Next up we enjoyed a breakfast al fresco around the firepit at the Hotel?Saratz?in neighbouring resort-?Pontresina. Here we have an exciting concept combining nature and excellence as well as the almighty sustainability factor. The location directly opposite the convention centre, makes this a perfect option for many of our conferencing clientele and we just loved everything from the food, the surroundings and attention to detail. The interior was an eclectic mix of classic and modern with some eye-catching artwork and the opportunity to embrace beautiful plant-based menus also. This location was about connectivity, nature and team-building most definitely.??

Then finally we arrived in St Moritz, Kulm hotel. Now this?was?undoubtedly a bit of a showstopper and radiated that St Moritz brand that one would expect. Quite simply, this is an establishment that?was?built to?impress, from?the entrance to the interior furnishing, and attention to detail and comfort?and service.?I look forward to bringing High-flyer retreats?here and can envisage it also as the ideal supplier retreat in the form of a goodwill gesture that will impress for years to come.?

So?what stood out???

For me I was, like many mountain enthusiasts?who have had the pleasure of visiting-?was?impressed by the vast scale of the area. The lakes?certainly stole the show and the huge forests and green areas that were calling me to come back and explore! I could envisage so many ‘out in the open’ events and teambuilding activities focused on just bringing offices back together again and getting outdoors after such a trying couple of years, often spent confined to a few walls. I also could see the beauty of winter as the lakes here traditionally freeze and offer?new events entirely- ice skating, ice polo matches and the?picture perfect?winter setting.??

For me there was also a venue that stood out on top of the funicular mountain train;?Corviglia?&?Muottas?Muragl.?This mountain was dedicated entirely to?snow-shoeing, sledding, walking and more breath-taking views (there seems to be a theme here!) It was a great concept that added something a little bit different to your average winter ski trip and?offered privatisation options that would really impress. Picture this : Winter product-launch event sipping champagne/?Gluwein?looking ahead at neighbouring Italy, the lakes and mountains and in an exclusive area of the world this offers something extra undoubtedly.?

There was something that also really stood out for me and that was the affection for vegetarian/ plant-based menu options. Something not typical in many?mountainous?regions.?It was such a pleasure to see an equally inviting menu for those of us looking to reduce our meat intake and really promoted the ‘flexitarian’ concept. Something that can be such a powerful tool?as we push in?exploring?more?environmentally friendly?ways of experiences?in every way that we can. It felt like I was constantly dining in venues that were really leading the way in the sustainable culinary manner.?So top marks Team Engadin!??

The Whiskey tasting experience (albeit less tasting, more smelling for me given my pregnant state!) was something quite unique. The story, the passion and the message behind?‘Orma’?infinite moments shared with special people really resonated and especially with our brand at Corporate Peaks. We are dedicated to togetherness, breaking down barriers and having good?old-fashioned?fun with one another. Sharing moments that will last a lifetime?is key and these guys were all for this. Excellent work! I mean the distillery?was literally helicoptered on top of the world and that?in itself gives?the whiskey a few brownie points for effort! I can’t wait to?bring back a group here for?an?unique taster session ‘on top of the world’ at 3303m.?

?So?should you go there??

ABSOLUTELY!?Whether summer or winter, you have an expertly executed blend of excellence and nature across?the board. I have visions of stunning evening galas, team-bonding by the fire, winter conferences and elegant dining experience with suppliers. As well as some serious terrain to uncover on your skis/board. The?questions?that remain?are:

1. What?are the objectives of your next business trip, that way we can ensure we deliver the right solutions for your needs with the help of our wonderful contacts in the area.?

2. Can I come with you? :-)?

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