St. Moritz: The Crown Jewel of Alpine Luxury

St. Moritz represents the pinnacle of Alpine sophistication, with a heritage of luxury dating back to the 19th century when it first welcomed European royalty and aristocracy. Today, this legendary destination continues to set the standard for exclusivity, offering an exceptional blend of natural splendor, world-class amenities, and an elite international community.

Living in St. Moritz

Exceptional Quality of Life

St. Moritz offers an extraordinary living experience defined by pristine natural beauty, immaculate infrastructure, and exceptional services. The crystal-clear Engadin air, legendary “champagne climate” with abundant sunshine, and breathtaking mountain panoramas create a backdrop for a lifestyle of uncompromising quality. The town’s sophisticated urban amenities combined with immediate access to nature provide a unique balance rarely found elsewhere.

Security and Discretion

Privacy and security are foundational elements of St. Moritz’s appeal to high-profile individuals. The community maintains a culture of discretion, with residents respecting each other’s privacy regardless of status. Security infrastructure is sophisticated yet unobtrusive, with many properties featuring advanced systems and private security arrangements. The area’s stable political environment and Switzerland’s legendary safety add further reassurance.

Climate

St. Moritz enjoys an exceptional climate known locally as “champagne air”:

• Spring: Crisp and invigorating with temperatures between 5-15°C, spectacular Alpine blooms
• Summer: Mild and pleasant with temperatures of 15-22°C, ideal for outdoor activities
• Autumn: Clear and colorful with temperatures of 5-15°C, exceptional light quality
• Winter: Cold and sunny with temperatures between -5-5°C, reliable snowfall and clear skies

Real Estate and Investment

Property Market

St. Moritz maintains one of Europe’s most prestigious real estate markets:

• Ultra-Luxury Chalets: Exceptional properties typically range from CHF 20-80+ million
• Premium Apartments: Starting from CHF 3 million for quality units in prime locations
• Historical Significance: Properties often feature architectural heritage and provenance
• Scarcity Premium: Strict development restrictions ensure continued value appreciation

Lex Koller Considerations

Switzerland’s Lex Koller legislation restricts foreign property acquisition, though St. Moritz offers several opportunities:

• Holiday Home Quotas: Graubünden canton maintains quotas for non-resident foreign purchases
• Commercial Properties: Foreign investors can acquire commercially zoned properties
• Residence Establishment: Those establishing Swiss residence can purchase primary homes
• Structured Solutions: Legal frameworks exist for certain investment structures with specialist advice

Working with Specialists

The St. Moritz property market operates with a high degree of discretion:

• Private Transactions: Many premium properties transfer through private networks
• Specialist Legal Counsel: Attorneys with expertise in complex international transactions
• Wealth Structuring: Advisors specializing in optimal ownership structures
• Architectural Expertise: Specialists in historic property renovation and Alpine design

Taxation Advantages

Lump-Sum Taxation (Pauschalbesteuerung)

Graubünden canton offers favorable lump-sum taxation arrangements:

• Eligibility: Foreign nationals not engaged in Swiss employment
• Calculation Basis: Typically seven times annual rental value/housing expenses
• Minimum Threshold: Canton Graubünden sets minimum taxable income thresholds that are competitive within Switzerland
• Advantages: No worldwide income or wealth reporting, simplified compliance
• Stability: Long-established system with strong political support in the region

Private Banking Services

St. Moritz provides access to Switzerland’s legendary private banking expertise:

• Local Presence: Major Swiss private banks maintain discreet offices in St. Moritz
• Wealth Preservation: Long-term, conservative wealth management strategies
• International Planning: Cross-border expertise for globally mobile clients
• Family Office Services: Comprehensive management of complex financial affairs
• Art Banking: Specialized services for significant art collections and investments

Lifestyle and Culture

Elite Social Calendar

St. Moritz maintains an unrivaled calendar of prestigious events:

• Snow Polo World Cup: The world’s most exclusive polo tournament on frozen lake (January)
• White Turf: International horse racing on the frozen lake (February)
• St. Moritz Gourmet Festival: Gathering of international culinary stars (January)
• The IBSF World Championship: Bobsleigh and skeleton competitions
• Festival da Jazz: Intimate performances by world-class musicians (July)

Culinary Excellence

The gastronomic landscape reflects St. Moritz’s international profile:

• Michelin-Starred Restaurants: Multiple starred establishments including Ecco and Da Vittorio
• Mountain Dining: Exceptional on-mountain restaurants including El Paradiso and Mathis Food Affairs
• Historic Venues: Legendary establishments like Hatecke and Hanselmann
• Private Dining: Elite chef services available for in-home entertaining
• Wine Collections: Access to exceptional cellars and rare vintages

Recreation and Wellness

Year-round activities cater to sophisticated tastes:

• Winter Sports: 350km of immaculate pistes, private instruction, heli-skiing
• Summer Activities: Sailing on Lake St. Moritz, championship golf, hiking, mountain biking
• Wellness Facilities: World-class spa facilities at Badrutt’s Palace, Kulm Hotel, and Carlton Hotel
• Medical Wellness: Preventative medicine and advanced treatments at Clinica La Prairie
• Cultural Activities: Gallery exhibitions, concerts, and private collection viewings

Connectivity and Access

Transportation

St. Moritz combines seclusion with excellent accessibility:

• Samedan Airport: Private aviation facility accommodating jets
• Helicopter Service: Direct transfers to international airports and private properties
• Rhaetian Railway: UNESCO World Heritage scenic rail connections
• Chauffeur Services: Professional drivers with luxury vehicles
• Proximity: 2.5 hours to Zurich, 3 hours to Milan

Digital Infrastructure

State-of-the-art telecommunications support international business operations:

• Fiber Connectivity: High-speed internet throughout the region
• Secure Communications: Advanced options for privacy-conscious individuals
• 5G Coverage: Comprehensive mobile network coverage
• IT Support: On-demand technical assistance for residents
• Smart Home Integration: Sophisticated home automation and remote monitoring

Practical Considerations

Languages

German (specifically the local Romansh-influenced dialect) is the official language, though St. Moritz’s international character means:

• English is universally spoken in business and hospitality settings
• Italian is widely understood and commonly used
• French is frequently spoken by staff in luxury establishments
• Multilingual services are the norm in all premium venues

Concierge Living

The standard of service in St. Moritz is exceptional:

• Household Management: Comprehensive property maintenance and staff coordination
• Lifestyle Services: Event planning, reservations, and personal shopping
• Seasonal Preparation: Professional opening and closing of seasonal residences
• Transportation Arrangements: Private air travel, helicopter transfers, and luxury vehicles
• Personal Security: Discreet protective services when required

Residence Permits

Establishing residence in St. Moritz typically follows established pathways:

• Lump-Sum Taxation Permits: For financially independent individuals
• EU/EFTA Citizens: Benefit from freedom of movement provisions
• Non-EU Investment: Permits available for significant business establishment
• Retirement: Special provisions for retirees with substantial financial resources

Integration and Community

St. Moritz’s international community balances exclusivity with engagement:

• Private Clubs: Membership in institutions like Corviglia Club and Cresta Run
• Charitable Involvement: Support of local cultural foundations and events
• Sporting Associations: Participation in golf, tennis, and winter sports clubs
• Seasonal Community: Network of like-minded individuals gathering during peak seasons
• Discretion Culture: Understanding of privacy needs and social boundaries

St. Moritz represents the pinnacle of refined Alpine living, combining historic prestige with contemporary luxury. For the discerning individual seeking an internationally recognized address with exceptional amenities, sophisticated society, and strategic financial advantages, St. Moritz offers an unrivaled proposition in the heart of the Swiss Alps.