Villages & Culture
Where history, architecture and everyday life meet.
The villages of the Engadin are places to wander rather than to hurry through.
Walk slowly, notice the sgraffito-covered façades, step into a bakery or simply sit in the village square for a while.
These are three places where history and everyday life still quietly shape the character of the valley.
Sils-Maria
Where nature and culture meet.
Some villages are remembered for a monument or a town square. Sils-Maria is remembered for its atmosphere.
As you wander through its streets, you'll discover traditional Engadin houses, small shops, cafés and peaceful gardens. It's a place that invites you to slow down, look around and remain curious. For more than a century, the beauty of its surroundings has attracted writers, artists, musicians and thinkers from all over the world.
Perhaps that is what makes Sils different from the other villages in the valley. Here, the mountains are not simply a backdrop to culture – the two seem to be in constant conversation.
Take your time. Wander without a destination, step into a small shop, stop for a coffee or simply spend a few quiet moments sitting in the village square.
Sils-Maria is one of those places that reminds us that even our thoughts sometimes need mountains.
Ideal if you're looking for...
🚶 Wandering without a destination
🏛️ Engadin history and architecture
📚 Literature, art and culture
☕ A café or pastry shop
🌿 An authentic atmosphere
🚶♀️ The perfect starting point for beautiful walks
Useful links
Bever
A village to experience, rather than simply visit.
Some villages are remembered for a monument or a spectacular view. Bever leaves a different kind of impression.
As you wander through its streets, you'll discover traditional Engadin houses, quiet courtyards, stone fountains and façades decorated with sgraffito. But what I love most is its atmosphere: the feeling of a village that is still lived in every day, with simplicity and quiet authenticity.
There is no need to look for a particular attraction here. Take a walk without a destination, notice the details of an old house, pause by a fountain or spend a few minutes sitting in the village square.
These small moments offer a glimpse into the everyday rhythm of life in the Engadin.
Perhaps that is Bever's greatest charm: reminding us that the Engadin is not only about extraordinary landscapes, but also about villages where life continues to unfold naturally.
Ideal if you're looking for...
🏡 An authentic Engadin village
🚶 Wandering without a destination
🏛️ Traditional architecture
☕ A coffee in a peaceful village
📸 Photography
🌿 A glimpse of everyday life in the Engadin
Useful links
Henselmann
A piece of St. Moritz history.
Some places, over the years, become part of a town's identity. Hanselmann is one of them. For more than a century, it has been part of everyday life in St. Moritz, welcoming locals, returning guests, hikers coming down from the mountains and anyone simply looking to enjoy a good slice of cake.
Of course, I recommend trying the famous Engadiner Nusstorte, the valley's signature dessert. But don't hesitate to let the display tempt you – it's hard to make a wrong choice.
More than just a pastry shop, Hanselmann reflects the timeless elegance of St. Moritz. Step inside, find a table and enjoy the pleasure of taking a proper break.
Ideal if you're looking for...
☕ A break in the heart of St. Moritz
🍰 Traditional Engadiner Nusstorte
📖 A place to read or relax
🌧️ A cosy retreat on a rainy day
🚶 A stop during a walk through town
✨ A timeless, elegant atmosphere
Useful links
Continue exploring
Discover another side of the Engadin.
Planning your visit?
Find transport, maps, weather, activities and other useful information.
Staying in St. Moritz?
If you're looking for a quiet holiday apartment in the heart of the Upper Engadin, discover Chesa Altrova.