5 great things to do in Pontresina this summer

We could all benefit from learning a thing or two about these noble and friendly wild mountain goats who, understandably, love the Alpine landscape – and you might be lucky enough to get up close and personal with a few of them on this short, scenic hiking trail, as one of the largest colonies in the Alps live nearby Pontresina. As well as information along the trail, there’s an ibex gallery on top of the mountain at Alp Languard (plus a well-equipped children’s playground) and mountain cabins on the way up so you can fuel-up on regional food and drink. And you can always double your chance of glimpsing a cute animal by embarking on a guided marmot and and ibex tour.

What’s better than treating yourself to a great Alpine brunch? Treating yourself to a great Alpine brunch in a stunning location, ensuring you get a full 360-degrees experience. What’s more, that brunch you’re tucking-in to on contains traditional Alpine cheese made just metres away from where you’re sitting, and you can learn more about how it’s produced by walking inside the dairy and watching the … at work. Oh, and did we mention that the brunch is served buffet-style? And that means you can feast on all kinds of traditional Alpine goodies and regional specialities, ensuring you get a proper taste of Alpine life.

It’s almost illegal not to go hiking in the Alps during summer, and those in Pontresina can take advantage of the Engadine’s status as one of the finest hiking regions in the whole of Switzerland, boasting a staggering 580km network of trails. Within this mighty network is the trail leading to the incredible Morteratsch Glacier, the third-longest glacier in the Eastern Alps. Over the course of this 50-minute trail you can find out how this natural phenomenon came to be, thanks to 16 information points, and younger hikers can learn about Sabi, the glacier spirit.

Swimming in an Alpine lake beside the mountains is exactly as dreamy as it sounds, as you’ll quickly discover when you visit Lake Staz. Tucked away between Pontresina and St Moritz in the forested Staz region, this beautiful lake is perfect for swimming, bathing or just gazing at. There are two jetties allowing access into the water, and the area around the lake is ideal for barbecues. There’s even a beach, so you can stretch out and dry off after you’ve been for a swim, and the children’s playground means that the little ones will be fully entertained while you relax.

Add some adventure to your Pontresina stay by booking a hiking trip out to the magnificent Pers Glacier, all of 3,250m above sea level. An experienced guide will lead the way and show you how to use crampons and a rope to climb towards Piz Palü, arriving at the Crap Pers mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views over the glacier. And don’t worry if you’re not an experienced hiker or climber, as the journey is suitable for beginners (and children over 12), although once you gaze out over the Pers Glacier you may just get the climbing bug.

It’s no exaggeration to say that Pontresina is an Alpine paradise, whether you’re looking to relax, get active, take a culinary adventure or just see some of the most beautiful parts of Switzerland. So lock-in a truly memorable holiday and start planning your visit now at Pontresina.ch.