When you think of St Moritz, you probably think of glitz, glamour, fur coats and the iconic image of horse racing on frozen lakes. It is for these reasons that many of our guests return to this region year after year. However, for many families and groups of friends, this can also be a reason to overlook this incredible part of Switzerland.
Recently I was invited to stay at the Nira Alpina in the Surlej area, just 7km from the centre of St Moritz. Prior to arriving I felt indifferent about the location - it's in St Moritz but not in the way I thought....surely being here means you're missing out on what the resort centre has to offer? This couldn't be more wrong. Located at the base of the Corvatsch Mountain cable car, the fact this property is in Surlej and not in the centre of St Moritz is probably one of its plus points...having the world class resort of St Moritz on your doorstep is just a bonus.
The 'Design Hotel' is uncomplicated and is not trying too hard to be uber fashionable yet it retains little surprises and points of difference that make it unique and unlike any other hotel in the valley. The welcome is personal yet professional, the rooms are spacious and uncomplicated and they all have excellent views.. The wellness area is very fitting for a proeprty of this nature too.
Now....to food! This is where the Nira Alpina sets itself apart from the crowd and takes itself VERY seriously. You can choose from the Stalla Veglia; a traditional Swiss style restaurant offering a warm atmosphere and local favourites such as fondue Chinoise, rosti and raclette. There's also the headline restaurant, Stars. With a focus on small imaginative dishes and international influences and a strong lean towards the East - the dishes are elegant, well crafted and designed for sharing. My personal favourite was the Suckling Pig with Polenta and Crisp Greens. You also have the choice of a bistro which is billed as "not fast food, good food fast" - perfect for informal dining at any time of day. You can also enjoy a cocktail and snack on the rooftop bar or savour the delights from the bakery whose chef's produce all the pastries and breads for the hotel daily. If that smell of freshly baked croissants doesn't make you want to get out of bed and get skiing, I do not know what will!
All in all, I would sum up my stay as 'impressive' but not over the top. I really want to encourage guests who would never consider St Moritz to seriously consider a trip to the Nira Alpina. It is perfect for families with its 'ski in, lift out' location, ideal for couples looking for a relaxed skiing break and great for a group of friends looking to spend some time in a modern design hotel with top level service for a relatively keen price compared to hotels in other parts of the valley.
To find out more, simply give us a call +44 1993 899 420
