I visited St. Moritz several times while working in Switzerland; these pictures are from June 1979. If you have a chance, take a train from Basel to St Moritz. This scenic ride takes you through the heart of the Swiss countryside, offering breathtaking views of the Alps and picturesque towns along the way. Nestled in the Engadin Valley of the Swiss Alps, St. Moritz (elevation 1,856 Meters or 6,089 feet) sits at a lofty elevation, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes. St. Moritz gained fame centuries ago due to its mineral springs. These springs were discovered around 3,000 years ago and established the town as a summer spa resort. Pilgrims traveled to St. Moritz to drink from the blessed, bubbling waters of the Mauritius springs, hoping for healing and absolution. Known as the birthplace of winter tourism, St. Moritz offers a playground for snow enthusiasts, from world-class skiing to bobsled rides down the Olympia Bob Run. As early as 1864, it attracted visitors seeking the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and stunning landscapes. The 1948 Winter Olympics, the first Winter Olympics celebrated after World War II, were held in St. Moritz. The opening scene of movie The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) has James Bond being chased on skis by Russian agents—the scene was shot on the slopes around St. Moritz, until the final scene when he skis off a cliff and opens a parachute—that was filmed in Canada. Thanks to its unique microclimate, St. Moritz boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year—a rarity in the snowy Alps. St. Moritz has hosted royalty, Hollywood stars, and dignitaries for over a century. The iconic Badrutt’s Palace Hotel and the elegant Kulm Hotel exude old-world charm. When the snow melts, hiking and mountain biking trails open up. Summer brings a riot of colors as wildflowers bloom across the Engadin valley; lace up your hiking boots and explore the Alpine trails, from gentle walks to challenging ascents. Piz Nair, standing at an impressive 3,057 meters (10,026 feet), overlooks the town of St. Moritz. Piz Nair is easily accessible from St. Moritz via a funicular and a cable car. The upper station unloads just 30 meters below the summit. Below the summit to the east lies the Corviglia ski area. From the summit, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Engadin lake landscape.