Lake Staz, St. Moritz, Switzerland

Lake Staz: The Forest Lake That Reveals a Different Side of St. Moritz

Just beyond the luxury boutiques, grand hotels, and famous lakefront of St. Moritz lies a landscape that feels worlds away from the resort’s international reputation. Hidden among ancient stone pine forests and protected wetlands, Lake Staz—known locally as Lej da Staz—offers one of the most peaceful natural escapes in the Upper Engadin.

Unlike the large lakes that dominate the valley floor, Lake Staz is intimate and secluded. Reached by foot, bicycle, or cross-country ski trails depending on the season, it sits within the Stazerwald forest between St. Moritz, Celerina, and Pontresina. The lake has become one of the region’s most beloved outdoor destinations, attracting swimmers, hikers, photographers, families, and nature enthusiasts seeking a quieter connection with the Swiss Alps.

A Lake Hidden in the Stazerwald

The journey to Lake Staz is part of its appeal. Visitors leave behind the busy center of St. Moritz and enter the Stazerwald, a protected forest landscape characterized by Swiss stone pines, larches, spruce trees, and moorland habitats. Walking paths wind through the woods before suddenly revealing the lake in a broad forest clearing.

This gradual transition from resort town to wilderness creates a sense of discovery rarely found at major tourist attractions. The lake’s surroundings remain remarkably natural, with forests extending to the water’s edge and mountain scenery appearing through gaps in the trees.

Although the lake is located close to some of Switzerland’s most famous hotels and ski facilities, its atmosphere remains calm and understated. The setting encourages visitors to slow down, explore on foot, and appreciate the quieter side of the Engadin Valley.

The Beauty of an Alpine Moor Landscape

One of Lake Staz’s defining characteristics is its location within a protected high-moor ecosystem. These wetlands are among the most ecologically valuable habitats in Switzerland, supporting specialized plant species and providing important environments for wildlife.

The combination of forest, reeds, open water, and alpine meadows creates an unusually diverse landscape. Depending on the season, visitors may encounter flowering vegetation, colorful autumn foliage, or snow-covered forests surrounding the lake.

The protected nature of the area has helped preserve its natural character. Development remains limited, allowing visitors to experience a landscape that closely resembles the environment that has existed here for generations.

Why Lake Staz Is One of the Engadin’s Favorite Swimming Spots

At more than 1,800 meters above sea level, many travelers assume Lake Staz would remain too cold for swimming. Surprisingly, the opposite is often true.

Because the lake is relatively shallow and sheltered within the forest, water temperatures can become comfortable during the height of summer. On warm days, swimmers gather at the lake’s designated bathing areas, making it one of the most popular natural swimming locations in the Engadin. Tourism organizations frequently describe it as one of the region’s premier bathing lakes.

Wooden jetties extend into the water, providing easy access for swimmers. A floating raft allows visitors to relax in the middle of the lake, while open lawns create space for sunbathing and picnicking.

Unlike many alpine lakes that are appreciated mainly for their scenery, Lake Staz actively invites visitors into the landscape. Swimming, relaxing, and spending an entire afternoon outdoors are central parts of the experience.

Sunrise Reflections and Photography Opportunities

Photographers often consider early morning the most magical time to visit Lake Staz.

As dawn arrives, mist frequently hovers above the water while the first sunlight illuminates the surrounding mountain peaks. Tourism organizations regularly highlight sunrise as one of the best times to experience the lake, when reflections and atmospheric conditions create remarkable photographic opportunities.

The forest setting contributes significantly to the visual appeal. Reflections of pine trees and mountain skies create constantly changing patterns across the water surface, particularly during calm weather.

Because the lake remains sheltered from strong winds, mirror-like conditions are common, allowing visitors to capture some of the most tranquil scenes in the St. Moritz region.

Walking, Hiking, and Cycling Around the Lake

Lake Staz is closely connected to the extensive trail network of the Upper Engadin.

Numerous walking routes link the lake with St. Moritz, Celerina, and Pontresina. One of the most popular excursions follows forest paths from St. Moritz railway station through the Stazerwald to the lake before continuing toward neighboring villages.

The terrain is generally accessible, making the area suitable for casual walkers as well as more experienced hikers. Cyclists also use the forest routes that connect the lake to nearby communities.

Because the paths pass through protected woodland and wetlands, the journey itself often becomes as memorable as the destination. Wildlife sightings, changing vegetation, and peaceful forest scenery add variety throughout the route.

A Family-Friendly Destination

Lake Staz has long been recognized as one of the most family-friendly outdoor destinations around St. Moritz.

Visitors will find picnic areas, fire pits, lawns, changing facilities, restrooms, and recreational spaces designed to encourage extended stays. Families often spend entire days at the lake during summer, combining swimming, walking, and outdoor meals in a relaxed environment.

A playground near the lake adds to its appeal for younger visitors, while the shallow shoreline areas provide accessible water access under suitable conditions. The natural environment creates opportunities for children to explore nature beyond the structured settings of urban recreation facilities.

The Historic Lakeside Restaurant

A distinctive feature of Lake Staz is the lakeside restaurant and historic chalet overlooking the water.

Set within the nature reserve, the establishment has become a popular gathering place for hikers, cyclists, and swimmers. Visitors can enjoy meals or refreshments while taking in views across the lake toward the surrounding forests and mountains.

The building contributes to the unique atmosphere of the lake, blending traditional Engadin hospitality with one of the region’s most attractive natural settings.

Winter at Lake Staz

Although Lake Staz is best known as a summer destination, winter transforms it into an entirely different experience.

When conditions allow, the frozen lake becomes a natural ice rink. Visitors can skate across the ice while surrounded by snow-covered forests and mountain scenery. The phenomenon of natural black ice occasionally occurs, creating exceptionally clear ice surfaces that are highly prized by skating enthusiasts.

Cross-country ski trails and winter walking routes also pass through the Stazerwald, ensuring that the area remains active throughout the colder months.

The contrast between summer swimming and winter skating highlights the remarkable versatility of this alpine landscape.

In a region famous for dramatic peaks, luxury resorts, and internationally renowned sporting events, Lake Staz offers something refreshingly simple. Forest trails, clear water, protected wetlands, and quiet alpine scenery combine to create an experience rooted in nature rather than spectacle. Whether visited at sunrise, during a summer swim, or on a frozen winter afternoon, Lake Staz reveals a side of St. Moritz that many travelers never expect to find.