It’s quite remarkable for a prestigious destination like St. Moritz that the hotel scene hasn’t evolved much over the last fifty years. This makes Grace La Margna—a five-star luxurious retreat introduced in August 2023—such an invigorating new entry.
The initial fresh debut in about half a century, this establishment sets itself apart with a distinct vibe. It’s more serene, contemporary, and laid-back, clearly guided by design principles. Situated right across from the railway station, the hotel now stands where the former La Margna three-star hotel used to be—a turn-of-the-20th-century Art Nouveau structure meticulously renovated and extended into one of
top ski resort hotels in Europe
.
The original architecture, all local stone and curved lines, has been paired with a striking new wing: crisp, pale, and quietly sculptural. The renovation, led by
Divercity Architects
and interior designer
Carole Topin
, achieves that rare balance between heritage and modernity.
My suite overlooked the lake and was a masterclass in elegance: muted tones, beautiful materials, and expansive windows. The bathroom was generous and spa-like.
Mornings begin with a decadent breakfast in the main restaurant space. As expected, we found heaving help-yourself tables, an expansive à-la-carte menu, and a croissant cart where guests could have their pastries complete with a filling of choice between chocolate, hazelnut, or pistachio cream.
A detail I loved: for the smallest ones, they have reimagined a children’s market stall into a buffet table at their height so they can help themselves — a sign of the hotel’s quietly meticulous approach.
The dinner experience at The View stood out as a memorable part of my journey: I enjoyed a Mediterranean-inspired tasting menu featuring delicate yet assured tastes, complemented perfectly by an aptly selected wine list. This upscale meal maintained sophistication without being overly theatrical; however, the addition of a tableside preparation of tiramisu brought a touch of elegance to conclude the evening.
On our final evening, we decided to try the hotel’s second eatery, Stüvetta, which offered a more conventional Swiss experience with dishes like fondue and other mountain specialties.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, featuring an endearing striped ceiling along with that familiar aroma of melting cheese. We were more than comfortably sated. The hotel also boasts a third dining option—the renowned Beefbar restaurant—which I unfortunately did not get to experience but hearsay suggests it attracts quite a fashionable local clientele.
Most of our time was spent in the bar and living area, which is centered around a crackling fireplace and furnished with plush velvet seats, making it an inviting spot for relaxation.
The cocktail list is designed like a set of tarot cards, with every beverage linked to a specific figure. I opted for The Devil, which offers a refined take on a margarita; meanwhile, my spouse selected The Hanged Man, a richer mix based on rum. We both found them remarkable.
The spa offers all you could expect from a five-star alpine hotel. I experienced a facial treatment with products from
myBlend
This made my skin significantly more radiant, and the 20-meter indoor pool was evidently a popular spot for visitors. Additionally, there’s an extensive rest area that is serene, brightly lit, and ideal following a day on the ski hills.
The service throughout was outstanding. The concierge organized ski gear for us at the on-site shop and even secured a top-notch instructor, while a convenient shuttle provided quick transport to the slopes—just phone ahead upon your descent for prompt pickup.
Unlike most places in the region, Grace La Margna operates throughout the entire year. This means that although they offer comprehensive facilities for all winter sports, they also provide thoughtful provisions for summertime activities. Visitors can rent gear suitable for both hiking and cycling.
For travelers who arrive by train, the connections are smooth, and thanks to the highly central position of the area, you really do not require a vehicle.
Grace La Margna introduces a novel concept to St. Moritz with her hotel—a place that acknowledges its environment yet doesn’t let it confine its essence. This establishment caters to guests who value ambiance just as much as design, looking for ease without unnecessary complexity, and recognizing meticulous touches that remain subtly elegant.
Reserve your accommodation at Grace La Margna
.
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