The golden autumn is a sight to behold in Switzerland, and the Engadine valley with its enchanting larch forests is the perfect destination for an autumn getaway. As a frequent visitor to the Engadine, I am captivated by the annual transformation of trees into a vibrant tapestry of colors. During our recent autumn excursion, we had the pleasure of staying at Hotel Saratz in Pontresina, where we not only enjoyed the most picturesque hikes but also experienced the hotel's unique concept of "Pure Nature." Join me as I share the best tips for an unforgettable three-day autumn adventure in Engadine, including accommodation, culinary delights, and scenic hiking trails.
Hotel Saratz - Nature's Retreat in the Heart of Pontresina
If you're wondering which hotel in the Engadine is perfect for your holiday or weekend getaway, look no further than Hotel Saratz. This award-winning 4-star superior hotel is an ideal choice for families, food enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Nestled in the beautiful Engadine region, the hotel is surrounded by a sprawling 35,000 square metre park while being conveniently located in the centre of Pontresina. Combining modern amenities with traditional Engadine charm and luxurious design, Hotel Saratz embodies the motto "Nature, you are great!" Guests can immerse themselves in the wonders of nature within the hotel's own nature park and throughout the region, which showcases nature at its finest.
Nature's Delight in the Hotel Park
Covering an expansive 35,000 square metres, the hotel park at Hotel Saratz offers a unique and mindful way to experience nature. Within the park, you'll find the picturesque Punt Ota gorge, a historic bridge, an old pavilion, and the origin of the Flaz. Whether you're a young adventurer or a seasoned explorer, the park provides a range of summer activities to suit every taste, including mini-golf, tennis, chess, trampoline, and a delightful barefoot path. In winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, with the cross-country ski trail passing through and the winter hiking trail commencing from here.
During your visit, don't miss the opportunity to partake in the hotel's special nature experience in the Saratz Hotel Park. The "Lots of Pure Nature" program offers eight mindful and grounding exercises designed to help you connect with nature. Indulge your senses as you explore the park at your own pace and immerse yourself fully in the beauty that surrounds you. These exercises are accessible to everyone, and children can enjoy them in a playful manner.
Yoga & Wellness Retreat
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Hotel Saratz is an ideal destination for yoga and wellness activities. The newly renovated yoga room bathes in warm sunlight, creating a serene ambiance that complements your practice. The hotel's pool area and wellness facilities provide a tranquil haven where you can unwind. With panoramic views of the beautiful park and its natural surroundings, you'll feel a sense of calm and serenity wash over you.
Art & Culture
Hotel Saratz celebrates the local nature experience and places a strong emphasis on art. In collaboration with local artists, the hotel hosts seasonal exhibitions that showcase art created with natural materials, further immersing guests in the beauty of Engadine's surroundings. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply appreciate the creative spirit, these exhibitions add a touch of culture to your stay, allowing you to admire captivating artworks that harmonize with the natural landscape.
Commitment to Sustainability
At Hotel Saratz, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it's a way of life. The hotel is dedicated to treating resources with respect and minimizing its environmental impact. Notably, they employ an energy-efficient heat pump system that covers a significant portion of their energy needs. Moreover, the hotel prioritizes local and sustainable production, ensuring that guests can savor delicious Engadine bread, honey, and other regional products while supporting the local economy. The commitment to sustainability extends beyond environmental considerations, encompassing social sustainability through equal opportunities and staff training. As a proud member of the "Swisstainable" label, Hotel Saratz stands as a shining example of responsible hospitality.
Giodi Vegetarian and Co.
Indulge your taste buds at Giodi, the hotel's remarkable restaurant that follows a sustainable concept. Proudly self-proclaimed as the first truly vegetarian restaurant, Giodi takes a veg-centric approach, using locally sourced ingredients that highlight the flavors and diversity of vegetables. While meat and fish are available as "side vegetables" for those who desire them, the menu at Giodi is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of plant-based cuisine. Prepare to be enchanted by an array of vegetarian and vegan options, with the carrot taking center stage in delightful creations such as the Carrot Spritz and Carrot Sorbet—an absolute delight for discerning palates.
Autumn Hikes Engadine
The Engadine is a unique year-round destination with an incredibly beautiful and magical Alpine backdrop. In the midst of the Alps, the high valley offers a place to relax with countless opportunities to escape from everyday stress and get back in tune with nature. Especially in autumn, the Engadine is a real magnet. At the golden time of year, the Engadine attracts many people to visit. The larch forests turn a beautiful gold and the hiking areas in the valleys, high above the valley floor, through historic villages and along picturesque lakes brings me to Engadin for many visits every year.
Morteratsch Glacier Trail
The Morteratsch Glacier Trail is the third longest in the Eastern Alps. The hiking trail starts directly at the Morteratsch railway station and you can learn more about the retreat of the glacier at 16 stations along the trail. After about 50 minutes you reach the glacier tongue and the milky glacier lake. You will also find a QR code at each stop, which will immerse you in the glacier world with fascinating audio stories. Along the way, benches invite you to pause and marvel. I highly recommend planning a picnic and taking in the dimensions of the glacier and the Piz Bernina and Piz Morteratsch towering behind it.
Val Roseg Hike
The landscape in the parallel valley Val Roseg is also a little tip to admire the unique larch landscape. The hike to Val Roseg starts directly from the railway station or village centre of Pontresina. The inviting valley is a popular destination for young and old. You can follow the main trail or take the quiet forest path along the crystal-clear streams on the left bank of the river. It is an easy hike and the time flies by as you marvel at the beautiful nature and the many birds and squirrels. You can always turn back or take the wide path back over the bridges. But if you like, it's worth taking a break at the unique dessert buffet in the Restaurant Hotel Roseg Gletscher.
Lej da Staz Hike
The Lej da Staz is already very well known and the unmistakable footbridge and the morning reflections live up to its magical reputation. The Lej da Staz in the Engadine lies at 1809m above sea level and is embedded in the Stazerwald forest between St. Moritz, Celerina and Pontresina. You can reach the lake from all 3 villages on a well signposted path. From St. Moritz train station it takes about 20 minutes, from Pontresina about 60 minutes and from Celerina about 30 minutes to Lej da Staz.
Tip: "The early bird catches the worm", because from around 11 a.m. the so-called "Maloja" wind comes up and the reflections in the Lej da Staz or Lake Staz are then gone 😊
Muottas Muragl Panorama Trail
Another hiking excursion like no other from Pontresina is the Muottas Muragl Panorama Trail. If you book more than 2 days in a hotel, you also get the guest tickets for the mountain railways. So a trip to Muottas Muragl has to be part of every stay in the Engadine. The view over the Upper Engadine lake landscape is unique. You can take the funicular to the panorama restaurant and either stay there and enjoy the view or follow the easy panorama trail. This leads past Alp Muottas, through pine forests and on to Alp Languard. From there you can take the chairlift back to Pontresina and end the day with a wellness treatment at the Hotel Saratz.
I hope you enjoyed the hiking and excursion tips around Pontresina in the Engadine. I am particularly fond of the Hotel Saratz and especially the village of Pontresina. It is a suitable destination for excursions all year round and for sports enthusiasts, wellness lovers, children and nature lovers... there is so much to discover. Find your hotel here