JOHANNES Badrutt, the founder of St Moritz’s Kulm Hotel, had one ambition: to attract guests during both the summer and winter seasons. It began with a wager – if guests visited during the summer and were dissatisfied, he promised to cover all their travel expenses.
More than 160 years later, the Kulm Hotel stands out as one of St Moritz’s most iconic destinations. Operating seamlessly across seasons, from the snow-covered wonderland of December to April, to the captivating greenery of June through to early September, the Kulm Hotel has mastered the art of year-round allure.
Exterior of Kulm Hotel
Situated in the Engadine, the southernmost high valley of the Alps, and at an altitude of 1,800m, the hotel boasts an impressive 65 per cent return rate, attracting a loyal clientele, particularly families who pass down the tradition to the next generation.
Journeying to the Kulm via train is an adventure in itself as we traverse from Zurich to St Moritz, immersing ourselves in the breathtaking scenery of the Swiss Alps. Passing through Chur, Thusis and Filisur, we’re greeted by majestic mountains and lush valleys unfolding before us. A brief interlude comes with the Albula Tunnel before the view explodes into undulating beauty.
Lobby Lounge
A short car ride transports us to the glamorous Kulm haven. Upon arrival, a grand staircase welcomes us, leading to a spacious living room where every corner offers a new perspective of the property. My favourite spot is next to the expansive glass window, boasting panoramic views of the Alps and the snow polo ground, now frozen over.
Crystal chandeliers illuminate the space, complemented by Olympic memorabilia harkening back to the hotel’s illustrious history as host to the 1928 and 1948 Winter Games. To this day, the Kulm houses the historic St Moritz Tobogganing Club and Cresta Club, while annually hosting the Olympia Bob Run. Eclectic art adorns the walls of Swiss pine wood, offering a serene ambiance that calms the heart rate.
Indoor Pool
I wake up in my Junior Suite, recently renovated by designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, enchanted by the altitude which invited the deepest of sleeps. I prepare to embark on a ski day on the Piz Corvatsch and, upon returning from an adventure-fuelled day, I am greeted with the balcony doors wide open and the sun basking through. I am treated to the exquisite sight of a gentleman paragliding over the Corviglia ski area in front of me. This truly is a winter paradise.
High Points Peak Mindfulness at Kulm Hotel
“Ski by day, indulge by night” is the trip’s mantra. From the elegant grand restaurant, the largest ballroom in the region seating 350 guests, to the Sunny Bar, the oldest sports bar in the Alps, led by head chef Tom Booton, a familiar and friendly face from the iconic Dorchester in London.
Contrasting with the offerings of St Moritz, the menu features comforting, hearty classics such as fish and chips and toad in the hole. A standout moment is Tom personally coming to our table to caramelise the meringue for the Baked Alaska. His relaxed manner matches the ambiance of the Sunny Bar, amazing food with a calming presence, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the slopes.
As the team whisk me away to the station in time to catch my train back to Zurich, I can’t help but reflect on the timeless enchantment of the Kulm. Its rich heritage, mixed with culinary excellence and charismatic aura, makes it a truly special place. It’s no surprise that many families have been returning here for generations. You best believe I will be one of those returning guests, whether it’s in the warm sunshine or amid the snowy winter wonderland.
by Ashleigh Jacobs
Email: info@kulm.com kulm.com
Tel: +41 81 836 80 00