St. Moritz is a resort town in Switzerland’s Upper Engadin, known for big Alpine views, great hotels, and outdoor fun in every season. Families come for snowy adventures in winter, and return in summer for lakes, easy walks, and fresh mountain air.
St. Moritz has a long winter-sports history and hosted the Olympic Winter Games in 1928 and 1948 (the first Winter Games took place in 1924 in Chamonix, France). Today, it pairs its well-known glamour with plenty of practical, kid-friendly experiences.
Key takeaways
- Corviglia and the Upper Engadin offer family-friendly hikes in summer and beginner areas for learning to ski in winter.
- Beyond skiing, families can ice skate, go tobogganing, and take horse-drawn sleigh rides.
- Many hotels offer family rooms and services, and some run supervised kids’ clubs (availability varies by season).
- Pizza/pasta spots and casual mountain restaurants make dining with children easy.
Family-friendly activities in St. Moritz
St. Moritz is packed with activities for different ages and energy levels. In the Corviglia mountain area, families can choose from easy, scenic walks as well as themed routes that keep kids engaged (for example, family-oriented trails around the mountain lake Lej Alv and themed hikes such as Heidis Blumenweg and Schellenursliweg).
When the snow melts, the lakes become the center of the action. Around St. Moritz and the Engadin, families can try stand-up paddling, sailing, or beginner-friendly water sports on mountain lakes. For a calmer lake day, many families head to nearby Lake Staz (Lej da Staz), a popular swimming lake reached by easy forest paths.
Kid-friendly accommodations in St. Moritz
St. Moritz has everything from cozy apartments and chalets to top-end hotels. If you want extra help on-site, look for places with connecting rooms, family suites, or child-focused amenities.
For example, Kulm Hotel St. Moritz promotes dedicated “Children and Families” services, including professional childcare as part of its family offer (details and seasons vary). Badrutt’s Palace also runs a dedicated kids’ club (Palazzino Kids’ Club), which can be helpful if parents want some adult time.
Dining options for families in St. Moritz
| Restaurant | Area | Good for kids because… |
|---|---|---|
| Chesa Veglia (Pizzeria Heuboden) | St. Moritz Dorf | Pizza and Italian classics in a lively, informal setting |
| Restaurant Caruso | St. Moritz | Huge pizza selection plus pasta and simple mains |
| la baracca st.moritz | St. Moritz Bad | Casual food and a relaxed vibe (check hours) |
Restaurants that serve pizza, pasta, rösti, soups, and simple grilled dishes are usually easiest with children. If you’re eyeing a higher-end restaurant, consider an earlier seating and confirm whether they can do smaller portions or kid-friendly options.
Skiing and snowboarding for kids in St. Moritz
Skiing and snowboarding are big reasons families visit in winter. The Corviglia ski area includes beginner-friendly zones, and the St. Moritz Ski School (“The Red Legends”) offers lessons for children following the Swiss Snow League levels, starting with first experiences on skis or a snowboard.
If you have older kids, a mix of group lessons and easy family runs can work well. Many families book lessons for the kids in the morning and ski together in the afternoon. Always check weather and slope conditions, and build in warm-up breaks.
Winter sports and activities for families in St. Moritz
Even if you don’t ski every day, St. Moritz still has plenty of winter fun. When conditions allow, you can ice skate on natural rinks at Lake St. Moritz. Tobogganing is another favorite. The Engadin has runs for different skill levels, including the Muottas Muragl toboggan run (about 4.5 km with a big vertical drop and many turns), which is best for confident riders.
For a slower day, horse-drawn sleigh rides are available in and around St. Moritz. Families can see snowy forests and frozen-lake views from under warm blankets. Snowshoeing and winter walks are also a great way to explore away from busy pistes.
Childcare and babysitting in St. Moritz
Availability varies by season and property, but several hotels offer supervised kids’ clubs or childcare options. If this matters for your trip, confirm the minimum ages, opening hours, and whether you need to reserve in advance (especially during school-holiday weeks).
Tips for traveling to St. Moritz with kids
- Pick your season. Winter is best for skiing; late spring through early autumn is ideal for lakes and hiking.
- Plan for altitude and weather. St. Moritz sits at high elevation, so dress in layers and schedule easier first days if you’re coming from sea level.
- Build in “warm + snack” breaks. Hot chocolate stops and short indoor breaks can turn a long day into a happy one.
- Let kids choose one activity. Giving them a say (a sled run, a lake walk, a pizza night) often boosts buy-in.
FAQs
What are some family-friendly activities to do in St. Moritz with kids?
Popular options include easy mountain walks on Corviglia in summer, lake days and water sports in warm weather, and ice skating, tobogganing, and sleigh rides in winter.
Are there child-friendly accommodations in St. Moritz?
Yes. Many hotels offer family rooms or suites, and some properties run kids’ clubs or childcare (check dates and age limits before booking).
What dining options are available for families in St. Moritz?
Pizza and pasta restaurants are common and are usually the easiest with children. Many Swiss menus also include simple dishes like soups, sausages, and rösti.
Are there childcare services available in St. Moritz?
Some hotels offer babysitting or supervised kids’ clubs, and availability can depend on the season. Ask your hotel concierge early if you need childcare on specific days.
What is the best time of year to visit St. Moritz with kids?
Choose winter (roughly December to March) for snow sports, or summer (roughly June to September) for lakes, hikes, and mountain activities.
