Christoph Schlatter could be called the Master of St. Moritz Bad. He runs the Hotel Laudinella, the Hotel Reine Victoria and of late he took over the Hotel Corvatsch. An inspiring personality with a heart for art and performance.

St. Moritz: Christoph, you were born into a hotelier family, can you tell us a bit about the history of the family Schlatter in St. Moritz?

Christoph: My dad came to St. Moritz in the 60s, he thought he'd stay only for one season at the Hotel Schweizerhof, but that idea changed quickly. A dacade later he was still around and took over the management of the Hotel Schweizerhof. He married the daughter of a German guest - she'd become my mum. Her roots pulled us all back to Hamburg and we opened our own hotel there. But the connection to St. Moritz never broke. In the 90ies my dad came back to work at the Hotel Laudinella.

And what about yourself?

After attending Lausanne Hotel School and then spending a couple of years in various Asian countries, I moved back to St. Moritz to work with my dad. We were able to turn the Hotel Laudinella into a family operation, and went on to rent the Reine Victoria and Hotel Corvatsch. Now even my wife works for the family business. It's a bit like in a circus family, where things only work when everyone works together towards a common goal. It's an amazing feeling to have the whole family involved.

St. Moritz used to be world-renowned for it's healing spring and baths. Things changed over the years. What’s your perfect version of St. Moritz Bad in the future?

St. Moritz Bad is a special place for me – the 360-degree view of the mountains is spectacular. At the same time you have access to the lake, the lifts, the Ovaverva. Public transport is great as well. St. Moritz Bad has a lot of potential. The town center up in Dorf is already quite packed, but development projects are still possible down here.

You and your team are very active when it comes to cultural events. Has that always a passion of yours?

It really goes hand in hand with the Laudinella – cultural events have always been a part of the hotel's DNA. All the conference rooms in our new building are being renovated with cultural activities in mind.

You seem to be a busy man. Is there time left for family and hobbies?

Absolutly. It's true, I'm very busy, but I like it that way. In my spare time I enjoy running in nature and cooking with my family. I love to cook. We often spend half the day together in the kitchen preparing a complex, delicious menu. That's how I recharge my batteries. My ideal day off: breakfast with the whole family, followed by a discussion of the evening menu; then a run up Muottas da Schlarigna to hug the big trees and enjoy the view; then back home to fire up the grill and enjoy hours of apero with the family while we cook.

What’s your connection to Hamburg?

My mom is originally from the Hamburg area, and my dad opened a hotel there called Wedina. We still go on business trips there often, to look after the hotel. I love the contrast of the beautiful mountains here and the nordic port city of Hamburg. A great combination, Hamburg and St. Moritz!

If you had one free wish, what would it be?

I am very thankful for where I stand right now in life, surrounded by great people that I love. I love what I do. My wish is simple: to stay just as happy and focused together with my family as I am right now.

What about St. Moritz are you especially fond of?

St. Moritz is simply unique. It has its very own charm. It is a globalized brand and great people from all over the world mingle here and enjoy the uniqueness of the village. You have an urban lifestyle and flair in an absolutely breathtaking landscape. You get inspired up here, it is the best place I know. I am thankful that we can live where others recharge their batteries.

What do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

My wish for St. Moritz is that we as locals work together more closely, and are more willing to take risks. Everyone needs to do their part and contribute to this great brand. The future for St. Moritz is bright, but development is still possible down here. We have wonderful people living here in the valley and many great people love St. Moritz and the Engadin. I am looking forward to the years ahead.

Christian Jott Jenny is a St. Moritzer by choice, founder of the Festival da Jazz in St. Moritz, singer, actor, creative. And since 2019 the mayor of St. Moritz.

St. Moritz:Christian, when was the first time you set foot in this town?

Christian: That took a while. As a child that grew up in the Zurich neighborhood Witikon, I had no connection to St. Moritz. It only started when I was asked to come to the valley and waken the quite sleepy summertime by producing several jazz concerts.

Do you remember the sentiment you had back then regarding St. Moritz?

Well, of course I was aware of St. Moritz’s standing and history, but whereas winter is a sparkling season here, the summer was really rather boring. So I said to myself: “It should be possible to fill this wonderful time of year with life!”

So, over the last thirteen years, you’ve built a five-week jazz festival with more than 70 shows in several locations. Is that a “typical” event in the valley or could you have done it anywhere else, too?

I couldn’t say for certain. To produce a festival such as this, you need money. I met enough generous people here and enough sponsors ready to join me. Of course, it helped that the brand St. Moritz is a very attractive label to be associated to.

Do you view St. Moritz differently since you are the mayor of St. Moritz?

Above all, I see more. I still enjoy the unique vibe of St. Moritz, but I got more acquainted with the more hands-on parts. Nevertheless, I was actually aware of some of the inside-politics of St. Moritz before becoming mayor.

What do you like best about St. Moritz, about the valley?

A wide valley with mountains, lakes and fresh air … what’s there not to love? St. Moritz has an amazing history which transcends into the present. It’s a part that’s everlasting, tourists come to experience it and locals are rightfully proud of it.

Do you still have any free time? If yes, how do you spend it?

Yes, I do treat myself to some free time. I like to spend it outdoors with my kids, with friends. Good food and good conversation is all I need.

What do you wish for the future of St. Moritz?

I want St. Moritz to stay a beacon of tourism while taking care of our precious environment. I want us to be fearless, to try new things, and – if we fail - to learn from it and keep moving forward.

“Let’s go see Rachel!” When you hear that, you know the next stop is La Gondla. Rachel Frey runs this funky bar in the heart of St. Moritz, and it would not be the same without her sass and wittyness.

St. Moritz: Rachel, you grew up in Rickenbach (Kanton Thurgau). What brought you up here to St. Moritz?

Rachel: Around 2004 a friend from Zurich called me and asked me if I could help out at an air show in Samedan. I said sure, why not? It was pretty crazy, we flew in on a private jet, were given a very luxurious apartment and driven around in a limousine. The full package, I loved it. On the way home we got to fly with this military pilot who flew very close to the mountains. I still clearly remember the feeling of almost being able to touch them.

Wow, so you decided to come right back and live the high life?

No, that wasn't the reason. (laughs) I had a job in St. Gallen at that time, but a year later they cut a bunch of positions, including mine. So I called that friend again and told him that I was looking for a new job. He introduced me to Christian Meili in St. Moritz, who ran the Sternenbar Marguns and others. I started working there in the winter of '05/'06.

And in the summer?

I started working in Ticino during the summers, bartending and at a SUP-rental place [Stand Up Paddle board]. That was great, as I was finally able to learn Italian. In the winters I came back to St. Moritz. What a great mix!

These days most people know you from La Gondla, the bar wouldn't be the same without you. How did that happen?

There's really not much to tell. After working at the Sternenbar for a few seasons I switched to La Gondla and have been running it since. The owners asked me, and I said yes. I've never looked back.

What’s so special about La Gondla?

For me it's like a second home. A place for authentic and eclectic people. I have guests from the Badrutt's Palace who come and rave about the homey atmosphere of La Gondla. They love to meet the locals and seasonal workers who come here to hang out. We have quiet nights, but also sometimes raging parties with Djs that shake the whole place!

You’re not twenty anymore, don't you ever get tired of the nightlife?

Well, it really is a world of its own that you have to learn to navigate. I go to work in the afternoon and usually come home early in the morning. Funny that you ask – I'm not tired of the weird rhythm yet, but I've been getting asked that question more and more lately. Last year I started going back to school for Kinesiology – but I can't imagine a life totally without La Gondla just yes. Maybe I'll calm down at some point and work as therapist part time. That would be a nice balance for the next decade.

Does that mean we won't have to miss you in the summers anymore?

I've already spent the last two summers here. The Gondla is now open in the summer as well, down by the lake. That's been great. We'll see if we keep doing that, but I would like to continue to spend the summers here. I have to admit that I do also play with the idea of going somewhere totally different, far away.. but I also feel like putting down roots more and more. Who would have thought! I guess I really am not 20 anymore.

What do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

I already feel like St. Moritz is waking up from her beauty sleep, there is so much happening among the people I know. People are active, full of ideas, making plans. My wish for the future of St. Moritz is that we all work together for the town and the valley. That we will support each other in order to be able to create great things for ourselves and our visitors.

Four in a row! Nina and Nik Hauser are the fourth generation from their family running the Hotel Hauser. A fine 3-star hotel with a focus on sustainability and alternative solutions for green business.

St. Moritz: You guys are siblings and recently took over the management of the family business. How do you divide the work at the hotel?

Nina/Nik: Nina takes care of PR, projects and the employees; Nik's job covers food and drinks, the restaurant and general management.

Are Marinda and Markus still involved?

Our parents give us advice and often provide a helping hand. We run the daily business, they support us in the background. Their 30 years of experience is a huge asset for us.

What are the biggest challenges when the baton gets passed from one generation to the next?

Respect on both sides. You have to respect the past, but also have respect for new ideas for the future. A good project needs to have both.

Was it always clear that you would take over the hotel one day, or did you have other dreams?

Sometimes we still dream about a small hotel with a bar at the beach. But really, what more could you wish for than an iconic hotel in the midst of the beautiful Engadine?

What inspired you to make the Hotel Hauser greener and more sustainable?

Our parents have already been working to become more sustainable for over a decade. They have made some big investments in that respect; our next one will be installing solar panels on the roof. We have big plans with the new generation at the helm.

What do you envision for the future of the Hotel Hauser?

That we can make it even greener, full of life with happy guests and employees.

What do you argue about the most?

Financial priorities, how much to spend on marketing, training employees, new dishes, etc. But we are always able to find a compromise.

Nik, you are also responsible for the Giardin restaurant in Pontresina, and a consultant. Does that leave any free time?

Running a restaurant with your friends is the best way to spend your free time! But when I'm not working you can usually find me somewhere in the wonderful nature of the Engadine.

And what do the two of you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

That it is an entertaining, lively and beautiful place for people to enjoy. Let the sun shine!

Daniel Müller, known as „Mulo“, is one of the top chefs in St. Moritz. He’s a pure local and has experienced the restaurant scene from an early age.

St. Moritz: Mulo, you grew up here and your dad ran the restaurants on the Corvatsch at 3303m above sea level. How would you describe your childhood?

Mulo: I literally had my head in the clouds, always taking the first Gondola up the mountain to go snowboarding with my friends… what more could you ask for? And then of course there were the crazy parties my parents threw for celebrities. We had live bands, fireworks, DJs, all sorts of VIPs mingling and partying at Corvatsch. That was a lot of fun. Thanks to my dad we also had access to all the high end locations in St. Moritz.

Are you still in touch with some of the people you met when you were a kid?

Sure, many of them come to St. Moritz regularly. I’m still in touch with a bunch of them and we meet here and elsewhere in the world to celebrate good times past and present.

You’re a chef today. I’d say one of the most popular in St. Moritz, congratulations to that. What drew you to cooking?

Mulo: I actually wanted to become a stuntman or a pilot, but I guess I was a bit too lazy. In the end I went for an apprenticeship at the Badrutt's Palace Hotel to become a chef. (laughs) In all seriousness though: food and cooking was something I got in touch with early on in my family. We also helped out our parents working at Corvatsch. Of course, being on the “home team” gave me a leg up when I applied for the apprenticeship at the Palace. Only two of us were accepted: Fabrizio Zanetti, who today is the executive chef at the Suvretta House, and myself. They didn’t go easy on us though. 5-star cooking is a world of its own, and the education was tough.

After the apprenticeship you decided to leave St. Moritz. Why?

You know, when you've spent your whole life here, you have to leave the valley at some point. After my apprenticeship I spent a winter season working as a ski instructor, then a summer living in Ascona. The following winter I joined the family business and supported my father on the Corvatsch, before finding a summer job in Ibiza. I continued on that circuit for some years, alternating winters in St. Moritz with summers in Ibiza. Sounds pretty good, doesn't it?

Sounds fantastic! So why – and when – did you decide to open your own place in St. Moritz?

That was in 2005. I was just looking for a new challenge. My good friend Ana Engelhorn and I went to eat at the «Cascade» and, to our surprise, found the restaurant nearly empty – and we had the crazy idea to see if we could do better. After a few meetings we were able to negotiate a deal to take over the restaurant. So many people came to the opening that the line was out the door. It was unbelievable. Business was booming for six years, until a neighbor complained about the noise. The tighter regulations that followed made it impossible for us to keep doing business. In the end we had to close.

What then?

After my dad passed away, Corvatsch had wanted me to take over his business. I did, but not for long. Instead, I switched over to catering, worked abroad, I opened my own restaurant, catered events like the Snow Polo and Cucina Faoro. Two years ago Heinz Hunkeler, General Manager of the Kulm Hotel, called me. That’s how I ended up where I am now: Running the Country Club at the Kulm Hotel. It’s been a great success. Last winter broke records, and I am especially happy that there are so many locals coming in.

Okay, enough about your career. What are you up to in your time off?

I honestly don't have much time off during the season. We work above-average hours, but when the season is over I like to pack my bags and go travel. That didn’t happen this year because of the pandemic, so I headed up the mountains with my board under my arm instead. Maybe I will be getting more serious about splitboard touring this winter. I've been conquering a mountain every other day, and I love the energy. I do miss leaving though. Even if it’s just a short trip to Lake Como, or to Milano.

What do you love most about St. Moritz?

Above all, St. Moritz is home. I wouldn't trade it for anyplace else in the world. And I really dig the new vibe that we are starting to feel here. St. Moritz is becoming cooler, younger – there is space for many exciting new things.

What do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

I think we’re already on a good path. More events and “happenings” definitely wouldn't hurt, especially centered around music with live concerts, parties, etc. But there is already stuff in motion. Lots of people, especially of my generation, share this common goal. Oh, and I do have a more specific wish: I’d love to see the pedestrian area come back to life. Full of tables outside, for coffees, ice cream, cocktails in summer… wouldn’t that be amazing?

Hej, St. Moritz: The Swede Ylva Linn Liliegren is one of the most important actors in the local art scene. Not only is she a St. Moritzer galerie director, she also loves to snowboard, and is calling for a permanent halfpipe.

St. Moritz: What brought you here to the high valley in 2016?

Ylva: I was fascinated by the mountains – along with the big potential in the art scene. At the time I was just coming back to Switzerland after a 6-month sailing trip in Australia, and I knew I wanted to live and work somewhere in the mountains. I began shopping around for galleries in and around St. Moritz, and was lucky to get offered a job at Robilant+Voena.

What draws you to art?

Art is constantly changing, always a reflection of the times. I've always loved to learn new things – be it about new artists, or how to lay out our data bank in a more efficient manner. The art market itself is of course also incredibly interesting. So many factors come together to determine the price of a work, and these factors are subject to constant fluctuations. Sometimes new factors arise, sometimes the old ones lose their meaning or gain new importance.

Was there a specific exhibition where you really felt something happen?

My dream of working in the art world started in the late 90s when I saw some great video installations in Germany. While I was looking for the right course of study I came across classes at the Royal Holloway University of London that combined theory and practical applications in a way that appealed to me.

What came after your studies of the media arts with a focus on contemporary video art?

First I moved to Zurich, where I got a job in the Eva Presenhuber gallery. Unfortunately it was mostly a desk job, so after one winter I started looking for a job in the art world where I could be more active. In the mean time I worked as a snowboard instructor. Then I was finally able to switch to a company that specializes in art management and inventories of art collections.

That was followed by the next step in your career, managing Robilant+Voena. What does a day in the life of a gallery director look like?

Well, normally I answer a lot of emails, talk on the phone with clients, talk to visitors at our gallery. Since our exhibitions only run for five or six weeks, I usually simultaneously take care of the current exhibition as well as the next one – I'm always juggling.

Does a gallery represent an artist the way a publisher does their authors?

Yes, you could put it that way. Some galleries like to mostly promote artists just starting out in their careers, others will only represent those with an established name. The contract can also be limited to specific geographical regions, which allows the artist to be represented in different galleries all over the world.

Ok, back to St. Moritz. Why here?

Different reasons, but of course all the great outdoor activities. I can even go stand-up paddling during the week before work, or go make a few runs on my snowboard – that is real quality of life!

And what do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

I have to admit that's a bit of a selfish wish, but I would love to see more things offered for snowboarders, and a permanent halfpipe. On a more general level I think St. Moritz could benefit from young and innovative business ventures, from more diversity and a willingness to jump into the unknown – for the fun of it!

«Bibi» loves her new home St. Moritz. She also likes to get heart rates up in her boutique resort fitness studio THE BEAT. After living in metropolises around the globe, the 27-year old New Yorker couldn't resist coming back to the place where she spent many wonderful family vacations as a child.

St. Moritz: It is hard to find information about you online. Is that by design?

Bibi: Well, I want the online presence to be more about THE BEAT than me. It is my own personal project, but I want it to stand alone as a business and not be associated with my family or circle of friends. Of course I get a lot of emotional support from my family, but that's it.

St. Moritz: Fair enough. Is it true you originally wanted to be a ballet dancer?

Yeah, being a professional ballet dancer was my dream for a long time. But when I was 14 we moved to Paris. I was confronted with the question of whether to finish high school or keep dancing because I would not have been able to do both. At the time, I didn’t speak French well and everything was new, so I decided to go finish school and not continue with the very intense dance training. That was a hard choice for me, but looking back I still think it was the right decision.

St. Moritz: What is music to you? It’s a big part of your program at the BEAT.

I love it! Music has always been very important to me, turn on the music and I’m awake. It works like coffee for me. Ballet is of course all about counting and moving to the beat of the music, and that approach also translates really well to my training programs. Moving to the beat is key here, hence the name. All programs in my studio include music. Some faster, some slower. So I started learning DJing a little bit, to build the workouts around the music. I make playlists for every workout and I make new playlists every week.

St. Moritz: So you developed your own training program around music and to the beat, is it ballet, pilates? Strength training?

Yes, it’s mainly high intensity strength training, not much ballet in there, maybe some pilates. Every training is different, so I spend a lot of time making routines, playlists, finding the right tracks and then build the program on the Xformer.

St. Moritz: Xformer? That sounds like a Hollywood blockbuster title.

Hollywood? Close! (laughs) I actually first heard about the Xformer for the first time in Los Angeles when I was training to be a fitness coach. It's a great fitness machine that provides a full body workout and is highly adaptable to different users. I have all sorts of people coming in to train, 14-year-olds and 80-year-olds, beginners and professional athletes. I always try to mix up the groups a bit, you get great energy that way.

St. Moritz: So after L.A. you came to Zurich?

Yes, I helped open other Studios there and managed other fitness companies before I decided to finally open my own.

St. Moritz: And then finally St. Moritz!

Yeah! This place means a lot to me. Us kids – my sister and I – came here every winter and always felt like coming home. My parents were super busy, we travelled a lot during the year. Winter was was the time when the whole family would get together in the same place. St. Moritz was one of the few constants in my life. When I finally decided to open my own studio I know it had to be here!

St. Moritz: Aside from the feeling of home, what do you love most about St. Moritz?

I think it’s the energy. There is so much action and sports. Of course the nature, it’s incredible. And the sun. I’m a happy person almost all the time, so I’m attracted to sunny places.

St. Moritz: What do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

Well, I think a little more of a fresh younger vibe maybe? There is a lot of diversity and I feel like there are more young people than the years before already. It’d be great to see this trend continue.

Hospitality is in his blood: Heinz Hunkeler knows every nook and cranny of the Kulm Hotel in St. Moritz from his childhood, now he runs it.

St. Moritz: Heinz, for how long have you been General Manager of the Kulm Hotel
St. Moritz?

Heinz: I grew up here in St. Moritz, and after some time outside of the valley my first position “back home” was at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof in Pontresina. My wife Jenny and I were heavily involved in bringing the hotel back to its former glamour after the Niarchos family bought the property in 2004. At Grand Hotel Kronenhof I was the General Manager for 7 years, before returning to my roots in nearby St. Moritz and taking over at the sister property Kulm Hotel St. Moritz. I have held the position of general manager at the Kulm together with my wife since April 2013. Along with my appointment as General Manager, I was also entrusted with overall responsibility as CEO for the Kulm Hotel St. Moritz and Grand Hotel Kronenhof.

You come from a family of hoteliers, your father ran the Kulm before you. Did that predetermine your path?

Already as a child I was fascinated by the hospitality industry, and especially by the majestic Grand Hotels. Since I pretty much grew up in the Kulm Hotel, I know every corner of the building – in part because I used to play hide and seek there. The smaller jobs within the hotel that I had as a teenager, for example as a pool boy or in the hotel kitchen, prepared me perfectly for the position I have today. I think it is beneficial to climb the career ladder the way I did it and to gain experience in all the various hotel departments.
It was never planned or intended that I return to my roots at Kulm Hotel St. Moritz to become General Manager here. After all there there are so many other exciting opportunities all over the world. However, I am happy and very thankful that my path led me back here.

Did you ever leave the Engadine for a time, and if so, where did you go?

Of course. As a boy from the Engadine mountains it was very important to me to be able to travel around the world and get to know different cultures. The time away greatly broadened my horizons. After graduating from the École hôtelière de Lausanne, I started my career at the prestigious The Pierre in New York. It was a Four Seasons Hotel at that time, and my job there was followed by two more, at Four Seasons properties in Prague and Paris. After that, I moved on to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Du Rhone in Geneva and the Kempinski Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Munich. The time abroad is an experience that I would never want to miss from my life.

What is your definition of luxury?

Luxury to me from a very personal point of view is spending quality time with my family – preferably outdoors. However, I am sure if you would ask various people they would mention time and freedom as well – be it in their personal or their professional life. From a hotelier’s point of view, luxury is connected to an outstanding, effortless atmosphere combined with a very welcoming feeling and a heartfelt service.

In the summer one can often spot you on your e-bike, riding through St. Moritz. Is that how you stay fit? Are you into other outdoor sports too?

You know, you can get exercise on an e-bike. Besides, it's great way to get from a to b quickly – a great benefit for busy people. But yes, I am a big fan of outdoor activities. Having grown up here in the mountains, I am of course a passionate skier. In the summer you can often find me enjoying various activities in the mountains with my family. You have endless options in the Engadine, even with little kids.
I also enjoy fishing and hunting a lot – these activities create a wonderful balance with my work.

What was the stand-out moment in your career at the Kulm Hotel?

I can immediately think of several. One was definitely the big renovation of the Grand Hotel Kronenhof after my wife and I took over – the biggest since 1896! It still impresses me how quickly the underground parking garage, the 28 additional rooms and suites as well as the 2000 m2 spa area came into being. Of course I've experienced renovations before and since then, but none was as impressive as this one. When I think of my time as General Manager at the Kulm Hotel, one of the moments that stands out is when we were awarded “GaultMillau Hotel of the Year 2018”. This meant a lot to my wife Jenny and I because we were the first hoteliers to receive the award twice – it is an oscar of sorts in the hospitality industry.

How have you seen tourism in St. Moritz and the Engadine change over the last 15 years?

A lot has happened in the last 15 years, where to even start? Just think of the Swiss Franc abandoning the euro cap for example… Here in the hotel our clientele has become much more international. We still have a noticeable number of returning guests, the duration of the stays has changed. Sustainability and eco-tourism are becoming ever more important – if you ask me again in 15 years, I'm sure a lot will have changed in that respect.

What do you think the next decade will look like in the valley?

I think times will be challenging, but also exciting. Competition is sure to grow, but that always brings opportunities. Since the summers in the cities are getting warmer and warmer I hope that more and more people will learn to appreciate the refreshing summers in the mountains. On the other hand, climate change will probably mean that we can no longer depend on consistent snowfall. Of course here in the Engadine that will be less of an issue than at lower altitudes. I am convinced that “smart luxury” will become ever more important.. You can see we have more than enough reasons to continue to constantly update our tourism strategy.

What do you love about St. Moritz and the valley?

The diversity of our valley is something unique. From the exclusive boutiques in the center of St. Moritz to the calm forest around Lej da Staz, from the Michelin-star restaurants like our “the K by Tim Raue” to the rustic mountain huts … And in between all of that the great variety of events like the Festival da Jazz, St. Moritz Gourmet Festival, Snow Polo or Passione Engadina, which all attract different guests. The outstanding combination of impressive nature, long tradition, entertaining events and exciting sports – that’s what captivates me anew every day.

What do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

We should appreciate how unique this valley is and be grateful for it. That is one of the reasons why I strive for sustainability – not only in our hotels, but in general in the Engadine. This extraordinary nature needs to be protected for future generations.

Carolin Geist, foundress of St. Moritz Art News, is not only well-connected within the art world but also in the valley. Here, she sees great potential for the art market.

St. Moritz: Carolin, where are you from and what drew you to St. Moritz and the valley?

Carolin: I was born and raised in Geneva. I received my education at different international schools. My family has been connected to the valley since three generations: my step grandmother had a house here. So we often spent our vacations here, and I have been collecting many beautiful memories of the place since early childhood.

What brought you back here as an adult?

I studied political science and after my graduation in 2014, I visited St. Moritz for the Snow Polo World Cup. Right away, I met interesting people and was offered a job. So I thought I’d take the chance and just do it! For the first time in my life, I was not on vacation here but actually working. However, I did leave again when I moved to Berlin where I worked as a political consultant at UNICEF. Still, I woke up every day and missed the mountains, the air, the atmosphere of St. Moritz. I felt the strong urge to come back, so I took a break from the job and returned. I actually planned to go back to Berlin after a few months, but when the local newspaper "Engadin Post" asked me to write for them, it gave me the impulse to switch from political consulting to art journalism.

A political scientist who became an art expert! How did that happen?

Both my parents are art passionates, so I always had a connection to the scene in St. Moritz. I knew what a great and unique place the valley is for art, and I started writing about it for the Engadiner Post but also for other print media. What I learned back then about the region, is the base of my work today.

Meaning the base of your platform “St. Moritz Art News” that you published in 2019? Where did you get this idea from?

Well, while writing about art in the valley, I realized that there was a directory missing: a platform where art lovers could find all information on the valley’s art institutions. As I often needed to look for said data and information myself, I wished for a place that covered all the great things the valley and St. Moritz have to offer.

So, you took care of that yourself?

Exactly! The Postauto took me from one village to the other, I did research, looked for and discovered many galleries, museums and collections. Many of these places did not (and some still don’t have) websites, so I had to go there, knock on doors and ask around. It was quite exciting!

And the excitement continued?

It certainly did, as I eventually had to program the website myself. This meant that first I had to learn how to do that. I spent many nights in front of the computer! Finally, in 2019, I published the platform – and today, “St. Moritz Art News” is a summary of everything that happens in the art scene of the valley and beyond.

What makes the platform unique in comparison to other online museum guides?

It definitely creates added value. “ St. Moritz Art News” does not restrict itself to the well-known museums or international art galleries alone, but also includes the patrician houses with their incredible collections or the high-class galleries in the smaller villages. It’s this richness and variety I want to show to the guests of the valley. The platform is supported by strong social media channels, that way we can communicate swiftly about news and reach even those who may not be in the valley at the time.

You describe the St. Moritz art scene as a “phenomenon”. Why?

The valley is a real hub for art! There are so many works of art going around the world, created by locals or by people who were inspired by our region. To name just one example: at the Venice Biennale 2017, Switzerland was represented by two art works that both were connected to the valley. Furthermore, most of the renowned Swiss art experts – collectors, investors, gallerists – have strong ties to this region. Those people are our ambassadors.

What do you wish for the future of St. Moritz?

(laughs) First of all, a better train connection from Zurich to St. Moritz! I am convinced that if we’d have trains in the late evening or in the night, the tourism would profit. These days we lose many international tourists who arrive in Zurich around 8pm and have to spend the night there because there is no train running to St. Moritz at that time of day. Furthermore, I’d wish for more services and offers for young people. Not just entertainment but especially shopping opportunities for clothes and accessories. Right now, we tend to shop online or in other regions – both options make people and money leave the valley.

It’s been 30 years now since Benny Sacks – dedicated snowboard junkie, nature lover, surfer and musician from Zurich – unpacked his moving boxes in St. Moritz and opened a playground together with Gian Paul Schmidt. Which in reality is far cooler than it sounds, as “Playground in Paradise” offers snowboarders everything their hearts could desire.

St. Moritz: 27 years ago you and Gian Paul launched Playground in Paradise in St. Moritz. Tell me about how it all started.

Benny: Well, we met at a snowboard photoshoot in 1991. Gian Paul was a World Cup rider, I was working as a snowboard instructor. This shared passion quickly made us friends. In 1993 then, on a ride up to Diavolezza, we decided by handshake that we would open a snowboard shop.

What’s your personal story behind your love for snowboarding? Back when you were a teenager, it still was a fringe sport, after all.

That’s right. First, I discovered surfing, thanks to my dad who in 1977 bought me one of the first boards available in Switzerland. I was 10 years old back then and immediately hooked. And I sought to find this incredible surf feeling on snow as well! When I heard about this amazing thing called a snowboard, I immediately bought one. Today, I still do these sports and feel as stoked as ever, but I have to admit I feel my body a bit more the older I get.

There was a time when the valley was called “Boarders Valley” and you were right in the middle of it. How were times different back then?

Snowboarding was still very young back then. And yes, we named the valley “Boarders Valley”, and also the “Hawaii of snowboarding”. Being the avant garde, were eyed quite warily, and were even accused of wrecking the nice ski slopes. Today, snowboarders are a strong part of the community. There still is no other place like it where you find such endless terrain and beauty. It never gets boring: with the influence of weather and wind, coming from all directions, snow conditions vary a lot. One side of the valley might be covered by one meter of snow or more, while the other side only has 20 cm to offer. As locals we know those fine details and can recommend the best locations for great rides. It’s the same with surfing: you gotta know where the swell comes from, read the forecast and be at the right spot at the right time. Hawaii is a surfing paradise, and our high valley is the snowboard equivalent.

You are not only a dedicated athlete but also a passionate musician. Would we have met you as a drummer and lead singer on a concert tour if things would have gone differently and you hadn’t moved to the mountains?

(laughs) Well, maybe! However, I don’t dwell on thoughts of “what if”. There are always so many different consequences to consider if you want to make a living out of your passion. I simply enjoy the time with my fellow musicians and our folk/country band Why Oscar. There, I’m having fun, I don’t have to be perfect, I'm allowed to make mistakes. In other words: I can live my music the way I want.

After almost 30 years in your paradisiacal playground, what does the future have in store for you?

For me? A bit more time on the surfboard, I hope! Seriously though: Gian Paul and I have given our longtime employees Sevi and Weli more responsibility as we want to spend more time with our families. We are both proud fathers and know how important it is to have enough quality time. This philosophy extends to our employees as well: At “Playground in Paradise” we all take three-hour lunch breaks to be able to fully enjoy the mountain during the day.

What do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

I hope that the region keeps valuing it’s core asset as a destination: the nature, the mountains, the valley. As a destination we need to do everything possible to protect this treasure. The fresh air, the unique light, the magic of the valley… My wish is that all of us here keep working together to protect and preserve this special place.

Claudia Aerni is deeply rooted in St. Moritz. Her family ran the Hotel Restaurant Corvatsch in St. Moritz Bad for generations. Claudia, however chose a different career and her life took some quite surprising turns.

St. Moritz: Claudia, you grew up in St. Moritz. What makes growing up in the mountains so special?

Claudia: Everything! I love the childhood I had here. We grew up in a real community. Children of the same age were around in the neighborhood; we’d play in the forest and our parents didn’t need to worry. I also have great memories of my grandfather who took us to events like the Concours Hippique, the White Turf, the Snow Polo World Cup and many more. I think we were lucky to experience the mountain life but then also to grow up in the most international environment. From an early age, we learned a lot through living in an international environment. We also got in touch with children from all nations and religions through the Ski school, the boy scouts and by going to school at the Lyceum Alpinum. I think this affected us all in the most positive way.

So, high season was a blast – but what did you do during off season or in summer when business was low?

In May and November, we usually closed the hotel and went on family vacation. In summer and in the fall, when our parents were busy working, us kids would spend our vacations with our grandparents, at holiday camps, with friends in Zürich or go on day trips with other families and friends. When I got older, I started summer jobs like selling ice cream at the Morteratsch Hotel or as an intern at the local veterinarian practice. I think I was like twelve or fourteen years old… it really never got boring.

Have you ever left St. Moritz for a longer period?

Sure, like almost everyone. After high school I went on a sabbatical in Australia for seven months to improve my English. Then I started studying economics at the University of Zurich but discovered quite soon that it was not my calling. So, for the following three years I tried to figure out what it was that I really wanted – until it became clear that I wanted to be an actress.

What inspired you? What led you to this decision?

Oh, already as a kid I had a real thing for showmanship! You could put me on any stage and I was completely in my element. Unfortunately, back then we didn’t have the same means and institutions in the valley to support artistically talented kids like nowadays. I was lucky to be able to learn different instruments, I played the clarinet in our local marching band, I sang solos with the choir and I took singing lessons. But as a teenager I was simply too pessimistic about the chances of being successful in the art business. In Zurich, however, I realized that if I don’t follow my passion, I’ll look back later in life thinking: What if..? Even if acting offers less job security than a position in the corporate world, I’d rather fulfil my dreams. Of course, I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to live off acting alone but I’m very happy with my decision and to be able to live and work in both worlds.

So you still have the “day job” during high season when you help out at the Hotel Corvatsch?

That’s right. In order to earn some good money, I've worked at my family’s hotel the Hotel Restaurant Corvatsch. Since 2013 I would assist my mother every winter and in the hardest summer months. That way I was able to focus on my art and acting projects. In summer 2020 I moved back to Zurich at least part time. Because the perspectives of working in the creative industry are just much better in the city. But don’t worry: St. Moritz won’t lose me again that quickly. I’m working on a short film about my hometown at the moment and I intend to remain a connecting piece between worlds for as long as I’m alive.

What makes St. Moritz so attractive – and what do you miss here?

I love the valley, the locals and our guests. In this place you can find everything. The international and even urban village of St. Moritz as well as one of the most beautiful alpine settings in the world only a 10 minute bike ride away. Same goes for the social culture: only a short drive to the south and you find yourself surrounded by Italianità and “dolce vita”. And you if just keep driving for a little longer you’ll find the Mediterranean Sea. The only thing I truly miss is a movie theatre though. This wish will hopefully come true very soon. And we should have an all-day breakfast place somewhere – I love to brunch, that would be great!

What do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

I would wish for the people of St. Moritz to move closer together. That we become a real unit, support each other and make our location fit for the future. We need more entrepreneurs, companies and startups that want to settle down in the valley. The problem is, that still many youngsters leave the valley in the search of a future. Only through good location marketing, great infrastructure and a diverse village life we will be able to counteract. This applies to the whole Engadin. We belong together - we are one. We are THE Swiss high valley and St. Moritz is a part of it, not the other way around. Everyone must contribute to promoting and implementing innovation and great ideas. I want St. Moritz to rediscover its pioneering spirit. That Top of the World means being - and staying - number 1 in the world again. I will spend a lifetime trying to do my part!

First stop for night owls and revelers: The QN Bar run by Reto Kuhn in the heart of St. Moritz.

What brought you to St. Moritz?

Reto: When I was a kid I often spent vacations with relatives in Maloja and Sils. Later I attended the boarding school in Samedan. I also worked as a ski instructor in Sils during my time at university. The Engadin and I have a close relationship. I feel at home here.

The QN Bar attracts locals and tourists equally – how do you manage to bring them together?

My business partner Silvano Vitalini is a local, I am quasi-local. Samantha, our charming bartender, has been living in St. Moritz for years and does her best to make sure everyone feels welcome in this great place. That's also why so many locals come in. Since the bar is so centrally located and easy to find many guests from the Schweizer Hof also find their way here. That is the secret recipe for a good mix.

You also run the QN Bar and the attached restaurant in Zurich's Effretikon. What are the pros and cons of a rural versus urban environment?

The QN World in Effretikon is celebrating it's 30th birthday next year. She is my base, and does well throughout the year. What I love most about the two locations is that it gives me an excuse to dissapear to the beautiful Engadin every once in a while. There really are no disadvantages.

What is your favorite aspect of the Engadin?

I love mountain sports. But I think what attracts me most is the openness of the valley and the special light.

What do you miss most at the moment?

Thankfully I have a lot of happy memories connected to St. Moritz and the bar. Live music, or the moments when everyone was dancing and just having a good time. I hope that we can experience those moments again soon.

What do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

That we become even more attractive for young people and more open to new ideas.

From project to project like a butterfly: St. Moritzer Heidi Kopp, founder of the art and culture association «Château Papillon des Arts» – a cultural catalyst in St. Moritz.

St. Moritz: You've been living in the valley since 1991 – what brought you to St. Moritz?

After working in Vienna, Dresden and Zurich as a make-up artist for fashion and film, I was looking to break out of the scene in Zurich. I could have jumped into the bustle of the fashion and film world in London or New York, but I was searching for something a bit calmer.

So why St. Moritz?

I had a client from St. Moritz who in summer '91 asked me if I wanted to host a golf tournament with her here – I agreed. I was in my early 20s and fell in love head over heels with St. Moritz and the valley. Soon I was involved with various cultural projects and later got the offered the position of product manager at the Opera St. Moritz. That is how I became a part of this place.

Did you ever feel the desire to leave again?

To be honest: yes. After two years everything started to feel a little claustrophobic. A lot people around me felt the same. It seemed like I knew everything and everybody. Which seems ridiculous in hindsight, because that will never happen, no matter where in the world. At that time I was looking for other options. But when I got a job offer from Donna Karan in New York, I didn't accept. I stayed, and have lived here since.

What about vacations?

Well, I'm not really the type to travel for fun. I went to Tel Aviv a few years ago, but think that was my only real vacation trip in the last 15 years. However, I do travel a lot for work. To Japan, Istanbul, Italy. Conferences bring me to Paris four times a year, and I regularly visit London and Amsterdam as well on the lookout for new trends.

You are very active in the underground scene as well, be it food projects, exhibitions or theater performances. Together with Max Schneider you've also been running the event location «Château Papillon des Arts». How do you manage all that?

One of the great things about St. Moritz is that it's small. When you live here it doesn't take long to get to know the right people, who you can ask for help. The Hotel Monopol for example supports us by housing our artists. There is a special kind of community spirit here.

What projects are currently on your agenda?

At the moment I'm working on a pretty big project, «Bündnertuch» (Graubünden cloth). We produce and design fabrics locally. The trade has a long history here, but unfortunately – like so many other things – it fell prey to fast fashion. Right now we are in the fundraising phase. We also host art dinners in the «Château Papillon», with exhibitions and performances - when the Covid-19 situation lets us do that again. It's going to be great!

What do you love most about St. Moritz?

Literally everything. That anything is possible here when you have an idea you want to realize. When you live here, you can just go talk to whoever you need to talk to. Of course there is no free lunch – if someone invests in your idea, they naturally get something in return. But the short hierarchies, the many possibilities and the inspiring people just do so much for me! In the last 30 years I have been able to get so much done here, really unbelievable. If you are someone who likes to grab the bull by the horns, someone who doesn't just make plans but acts, then all doors are open to you here.

What do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

I think we should be grateful for what we have here. St. Moritz is a wonderful place, one of the most beautiful in the world. My wish for the future of St. Moritz and for all of us here is that we keep growing, keep walking our own path and keep creating great things together.

In 1993 Gian Paul Schmidt and his friend Benny Sacks founded the first and (to the present day) only snowboard shop in St. Moritz: “Playground in Paradise”. They both are old hands in the scene and took an active part in shaping the Swiss snowboard scene. For some they were rebels, for others innovators, and to the following snowboard generation, they are heroes._

St. Moritz: Gian Paul, you grew up in St. Moritz and spent your childhood in the valley. Have you ever left it for longer?

Gian Paul: Yes and no. In winter, St. Moritz was always my base, but as a professional snowboarder I had the opportunity to ride in countless winter destinations in Europe and the US. In the summer I went to the ocean to practice the mother of all board sports: surfing. Even later, after we founded the shop, we closed it during the summer so that I could travel to Costa Rica, Bali or Brazil. My roots, though, were always in the valley, and I knew I’d come back in the shop for the winter. Today I live in Pontresina year-round and spend the summers with my kids.

When did you and Benny decide to open a snowboard shop in St. Moritz?

Benny and I go way back, all the way to our 20s. I think we met in 1991 at a snowboard photo shoot for Silvaplana Tourism. He worked as a snowboard instructor, I still went to school. In the following winter when we often went snowboarding together, we both were wondering why no one in the valley provided good snowboard gear for locals and tourists. Finally, in spring 1992 in the gondola up to the Diavolezza, we shook hands and founded Playground in Paradise.

So you two are friends as well as business partners?

Indeed we are. We even went on holiday together before launching the business – an 8-week-surfing trip – to find out if we’d get along. We did! At first we opened the shop in Silvaplana, but soon afterwards decided to move it to St. Moritz.

Why did you choose St. Moritz as your business location?

I grew up here, St. Moritz is my home. It’s surrounded by these diverse mountains – you just won’t find anything like it on this planet. It nevertheless was a bit of a challenge to promote a sport like snowboarding, which always had a bit of a trashy flair, in a posh place like St. Moritz. But our business idea worked out well.

Speaking of ideas: In 1996 you presented the project Boarders Valley. Can you tell us more about it?

At that time, the valley and its municipalities had not yet appeared on the market as a single united brand. Marketing, logos, communication etc. were quite inconsistent. We however aimed to promote St. Moritz and the valley as the top snowboard destination. So we created the brand Boarders Valley. We promoted its parties, contests, get-togethers and other events with a booklet all over the world. Unfortunately, the story ended after approximately three years when the tourist organization decided not to invest in the snowboard target group anymore.

Would you do anything different today?

No, I’d do it all over again exactly as we did back then. I still hope that Boarders Valley will be recognized and acknowledged for what it was and still is: a great idea that guarantees lots of fun and brings guests to our alpine valley and to St. Moritz. Even today, 20 years later, we talk about it. There was definitely something to it!

What do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

I see St. Moritz as a kid that has to be taken care of by all of us. If, however, the caretakers and chaperones focus only on individual interests, it will harm the kid. We all need to come together and work for the greater good of the town. That is my short-term wish for St. Moritz.

Eveline Fasser Testa grew up and went to school in St. Moritz. After following her career all over the world for more than 25 years, she returned to her roots. Today, she is one of the most involved women in the valley.

St. Moritz: Eveline, what is your most cherished childhood memory of St. Moritz?

Eveline: I remember the lightheartedness we had as kids. We grew up with a lot of freedom. We were out in nature a lot with friends, playing, skiing without parents and adults. Yes, I think that’s my favorite memory, the lightheartedness we enjoyed.

What made you leave the valley and travel the world?

My job. At the age of 20 I left for Zurich and started working in marketing & communications. I decided to study part time and stay on the job. I was living in Zürich but was working very internationally and travelled a lot. I also lived in the US for three years in this time. Aside from that I was the typical “weekly commuter”: I spent the week in Zürich and the Weekends in St. Moritz.

Since when have you been you a full-time St. Moritz local again?

Since 2005. My husband is from St. Moritz, too, and we were both working very internationally. After we turned 40, we both thought about what we really want: whether we liked to continue doing the back and forth or whether it would be possible to start something in St. Moritz. He came a few years before me, and I finally decided to come back, too, travel less and bring a little more work-life-balance into our lives.

Are you still working in marketing or has the “new old home” inspired you to start something new?

When I returned, I indeed was looking for another challenge in marketing & communications but figured out quickly that the way I was working in big companies did not fit the circumstances in the valley. Then Monty Shadow from St. Moritz Art Masters asked me to take over the lead on his company. It was in the red when I started but within five years we managed to break even. Aside from that I was and am still active in cultural projects in the valley and also in the golf club. When I was elected as president of the St. Moritz tourism committee, I decided to resign from my position at St. Moritz Art Masters, as I wanted to avoid a potential conflict of interest.

Is it true that you also create room fragrances?

Yes, it’s true! My husband and I have this little agreement that we do at least two trips per year, to get away, get inspired in other parts of the world. On a trip to Elba I found “Aqua dell’Elba” and thought, wow, this is great, why don’t we have that for St. Moritz? So I did it, started a very new thing and learned from scratch all there is to know about that business. It was exciting! I created it with a world renowned perfume maker from Berlin and we launched our fragrance in 2014 for the 150-year anniversary of winter tourism. One year later, the “Engiadina” fragrance followed. We’re actually just now creating three more scents for St. Moritz to have four fragrances in total: one for each season.

What, in your opinion, makes St. Moritz such a fascinating place?

I simply love the international touch. It is a unique place in the middle of the nature that has so much to offer. However, within two to three hours you can be in Milano, Zurich or Munich. In addition to that, very interesting international people visit St. Moritz for business and pleasure, and they bring us knowledge, ideas and inspiration from outside.

What do you envision for the future of St. Moritz?

When I was a child, I remember a certain continuity in tourism. Guests would come several times per year and generally stay longer. I started friendships with children of families who came here for generations. I’m actually still in touch with most of them. So, locals and tourists were very connected back then. That is something that I feel has changed, become more abstract and I miss it a lot. My wish for St. Moritz is that we locals and the visitors will converge again. And I want us to look into the future with optimism, to come together for the well-being of the destination, of the whole valley. St. Moritz is an extremely strong brand with a lot of potential going forward.

Silvano Vitalini founded his own fashion label, self-titled, in St. Moritz in 2012. “Not your average tailor”, with a-not-so-average story.

St. Moritz: What is the story behind you and St. Moritz?

Silvano: My father, a carpenter by trade, worked many winter seasons here as a ski instructor. Shortly after I was born my parents decided to move from Zurich to Samedan, where my father opened a workshop. I grew up here and see myself as a local.

How did the son of a carpenter become a tailor?

Well, I think I've always been a bit of a rebel. When I had to decide on a topic for my final paper in school I chose to do a business study of Playboy Magazine. The teachers weren't very happy with that suggestion.. then I saw a fashion show somewhere that really inspired me. I designed my own clothing line instead of writing about Marilyn Monroe and Hugh Hefner. My grandmother taught me how to sew and I created six outfits. They were a real success!

And so began the love affair?

O sole mio! Deny Mainente not only looks like the legendary opera star Pavarotti – on occasion he even provides a singing welcome to guests at his wine bar of the same name.