Celerina

Celerina/Schlarigna is a compact Alpine municipality that has evolved from a modest farming settlement into a vibrant tourist hub while preserving its Engadine identity. The village’s recorded history dates back to the 12th century, when it was mentioned in documents as a seasonal pasture for the nearby valleys. Over the centuries, the community grew around agriculture, particularly dairy farming, and the construction of stone houses with characteristic sgraffito facades. In the late 19th century, the expansion of the railway line from St. Moritz to Tirano opened Celerina to visitors seeking the clean mountain air and therapeutic climate. The arrival of the Cresta bobsleigh track in the 1930s cemented its reputation as a winter sports destination, and the village has since hosted numerous international competitions.

Main attractions in Celerina reflect both its cultural roots and its outdoor appeal. The Reformed Church of San Gian, built in the early 20th century, showcases simple yet elegant Alpine architecture and houses a historic organ that is still used for concerts. Nearby, the Church of Santa Maria (Kirche Crasta) offers a glimpse of traditional religious art. For sport enthusiasts, the Cresta Run – a legendary natural ice track that begins in St. Moritz and finishes near Celerina – provides a thrilling bobsleigh experience for both amateurs and professionals. The village’s own ice rink, Center da Sport, doubles as a curling venue in winter and a roller‑skating arena in summer.

Outdoor activities abound. In winter, the surrounding Engadin mountains provide extensive cross‑country ski trails, snowshoe routes, and the famous Engadin Barefoot Trail, a sensory path that lets visitors feel the snow underfoot. Summer transforms the area into a hiker’s paradise, with routes leading to the Piz Bernina photo point, the highest peak in the Eastern Alps, and scenic bike paths that follow the lake’s shoreline. The nearby Bob Museum in Celerina offers an interactive look at the history of bobsleigh, while the Alpine Museum in neighboring Pontresina expands on regional culture.

Getting to Celerina is straightforward. The village is served by the Rhaetian Railway (RhB) line that connects St. Moritz, Samedan and Tirano, with frequent hourly trains. The nearest major airport is Zurich, about 200 km away, reachable by a combination of train and scenic Alpine routes. Car travelers can use the A13 motorway, exiting at Samedan and following well‑signed signs to Celerina. Parking is available in designated lots near the village centre and at the sports complex.

Practical tips for visitors include purchasing a Graubünden travel pass for unlimited public transport within the canton, and checking the opening dates of seasonal attractions – the Cresta Run operates from December to March, while the Barefoot Trail is best experienced from June to September when the snow has melted. Accommodations range from family‑run guesthouses to upscale hotels that benefit from the village’s proximity to St. Moritz’s luxury offerings. Dining options feature traditional Engadine cuisine, such as capuns (Swiss chard rolls) and maluns (potato dumplings), as well as international fare.

Seasonal advice is essential for making the most of a Celerina visit. Winter travelers should be prepared for temperatures that can drop below –10 °C and bring appropriate layered clothing, while summer visitors will enjoy mild daytime highs around 16 °C, ideal for hiking and cycling. Spring and autumn are quieter, offering lower accommodation rates and the chance to experience the changing alpine flora. Overall, Celerina’s blend of sunshine, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure makes it a versatile destination for any season.