Europe’s richest small town with a population of 5,000 that’s a playground for the wealthy | World | News

St. Moritz has long been a playground for the wealthy and famous, attracting visitors from around the globe.

This is mainly thanks to its location as it is surrounded by towering Alps’ peaks that soar over 3,000 meters.

This makes it a prime spot for winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking the finer things in life.

Twice host to the Winter Olympics, in 1928 and 1948, the town remains a very popular place for skiing, bobsledding, and other cold-weather activities.

Tourists can even experience Olympic-level thrills by riding down the famous bobsled track with a guide. For ski lovers, the slopes are also open from Christmas through late April.

While its reputation for glitz and glamour is undeniable, St. Moritz has a history rooted in British innovation.

Over 130 years ago, a group of British visitors stayed through the winter on a hotelkeeper’s bet that they’d enjoy the season as much as summer.

They did, and winter tourism was born. Today, the town offers a variety of ice-based sports, from horse racing and polo to cricket and even greyhound racing, all set against a dazzling frozen lake.

But the town’s appeal extends beyond winter. In summer, visitors can sail on Lake St. Moritz, windsurf on nearby Lake Maloja, or hike the valley’s many scenic trails.

The region’s rushing rivers and gorgeous lakes also offer opportunities for fishing and relaxation.

Despite its wealth, St. Moritz is not entirely out of reach for travelers on more modest budgets.

While many of its hotels and restaurants cater to high-end clientele, the town welcomes all visitors, offering a chance to experience its beauty and charm without necessarily breaking the bank.