Corvatsch Mountain | Saint Moritz

Corvatsch Mountain is a stunning peak in the Upper Engadine region of Switzerland, located near St. Moritz and part of the Engadine Ski Arena. Standing at an altitude of 3,303 meters (10,837 feet), Corvatsch is known for its high-altitude skiing, panoramic views, and excellent snow conditions throughout the winter and summer months. The mountain is particularly famous for its Corvatsch Ski Area, which attracts winter sports enthusiasts from around the world, as well as its accessibility and variety of outdoor activities.

Key Features of Corvatsch Mountain

1. Geography and Location

• Corvatsch is located in the Bernina Range of the Swiss Alps, above the town of St. Moritz in the Upper Engadine Valley. It rises majestically above the Silvaplana and Sils lakes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers, and valleys.
• The mountain is part of the Corvatsch-Furtschellas Ski Area, which includes several ski lifts and cable cars that connect various levels of the mountain, making it a convenient and accessible ski destination.

2. Skiing and Snowboarding

• Corvatsch Ski Area is one of the most renowned ski regions in Switzerland, offering a wide range of slopes suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The area includes more than 120 kilometers (75 miles) of ski runs, making it a favorite for both beginners and advanced skiers.
• High-altitude skiing: One of Corvatsch’s standout features is its high-altitude location, ensuring excellent snow conditions throughout the ski season. The Corvatsch Glacier provides reliable snow coverage and extends the skiing season into the spring, with skiing available as late as May.
• Freeride areas: Corvatsch is known for its off-piste skiing and snowboarding, with designated freeride zones that allow more experienced athletes to explore deep powder snow and rugged terrain. The resort is home to some of the best off-piste conditions in the Engadine region.
• Snowparks: The resort offers several snowparks with features such as jumps, rails, and half-pipes, catering to freestyle skiers and snowboarders.

3. Corvatsch Cable Cars

• Corvatsch is easily accessible thanks to its well-developed lift system. The Corvatsch Cable Car connects Silvaplana at the valley level to the Corvatsch summit. The cable car ride takes visitors from 1,800 meters (5,906 feet) to the summit at 3,303 meters (10,837 feet), providing breathtaking views of the Engadine Valley and surrounding peaks along the way.
• The Corvatsch cable car is one of the highest in Switzerland, and it is joined by several ski lifts that serve the slopes below, creating an interconnected network of lifts that make accessing the ski terrain fast and easy.
• The cable car system ensures minimal wait times, and with the Corvatsch-Montaz chairlift and other modern lifts, skiers can easily navigate between different ski areas.

4. Panoramic Views

• From the top of Corvatsch, visitors are treated to awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Upper Engadine, Lake St. Moritz, Lake Silvaplana, and the nearby Bernina Alps. The views from the summit also include the Piz Bernina (the highest peak in the eastern Alps), the Piz Corvatsch, and the Piz Roseg.
• The area is particularly popular for photography, with its dramatic scenery and snow-capped peaks, especially at sunrise and sunset.

5. Summer Activities

• While Corvatsch is known primarily for its skiing and snowboarding in the winter, it is also a popular destination in the summer months for hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding.
• Hiking: The mountain has several hiking trails that vary in difficulty, offering spectacular views of glaciers, lakes, and the surrounding peaks. One popular route is the hike to the Corvatsch Summit, which provides panoramic vistas of the Alps and the Engadine region.
• Mountain Biking: The area offers some fantastic mountain biking trails that wind through alpine meadows and forests, suitable for all levels of riders.
• Paragliding: Corvatsch is a top destination for paragliders, who can launch from the summit and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the lakes and mountains below.
• Corvatsch Glacier: The Corvatsch Glacier offers a unique opportunity to experience glacial landscapes, whether for walking, hiking, or simply enjoying the stunning views.

6. Corvatsch Restaurant

• At the top of Corvatsch, visitors will find the Corvatsch Summit Restaurant, where they can enjoy a meal while taking in the incredible mountain views. The restaurant serves a variety of Swiss and alpine specialties, including fondue, raclette, and hearty mountain meals.
• The restaurant offers both indoor seating and outdoor terraces, allowing guests to enjoy the fresh alpine air while dining.

7. Accessibility

• Corvatsch is easily accessible from St. Moritz, which is just a short drive away. The Corvatsch Cable Car departs from the town of Silvaplana, which is connected to St. Moritz by public transport and private car.
• The resort is part of the Engadine Ski Arena, a large ski area that connects several other ski regions in the area, including St. Moritz, Sils, Silvaplana, and Furtschellas. This network of lifts and slopes offers an extensive range of skiing and snowboarding options for visitors.

8. Events and Competitions

• Corvatsch hosts several major events and ski competitions during the winter season, including races, freestyle ski and snowboard events, and off-piste challenges. It is known for its freestyle ski events and snowboard competitions, which attract top athletes from around the world.
• The area also hosts cross-country skiing events, taking advantage of the vast network of trails and the natural beauty of the region.

9. Best Time to Visit

• Winter (December to April): The prime season for skiing, snowboarding, and snow-based activities. Corvatsch offers excellent snow conditions due to its high altitude, and the season typically lasts from December through April.
• Summer (June to September): Corvatsch remains accessible during the summer months, offering hiking, biking, and other alpine adventures. While skiing is not possible in the summer, the area’s hiking and outdoor activities make it a great destination during this period.
• Spring (May): The ski season on Corvatsch can extend into the spring, especially on the glacier, allowing for skiing until May.

Conclusion

Corvatsch Mountain offers a perfect blend of world-class skiing, high-altitude adventure, and breathtaking views. With its extensive ski terrain, excellent snow conditions, modern lift infrastructure, and a variety of summer activities, Corvatsch is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're visiting for winter sports, hiking, or simply enjoying the stunning alpine scenery, Corvatsch provides an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Swiss Alps.