Top 10 Winter Activities in Sils Maria & the Engadin

Top 10 Winter Activities in Sils Maria & the Engadin

Nestled between Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana, Sils Maria is one of the most enchanting winter destinations in the Engadin Valley. With its mix of serene lakes, wide open spaces, and dramatic peaks, it offers a unique balance of active adventures and peaceful escapes. Whether you’re a skier, a hiker, or simply someone who wants to soak in the alpine atmosphere, Sils Maria is the perfect base for exploring the Engadin. Here are ten activities to make the most of your stay.

1. Alpine Skiing in Corvatsch & Furtschellas

Sils Maria sits right at the gateway to the Corvatsch ski area, with its 120 km of perfectly groomed pistes and the highest mountain station in the Eastern Alps (3,303 m). Beginners will find wide blue slopes above Furtschellas, while experts can tackle the long red descents into the valley or the legendary Hahnensee run into St. Moritz. Snow is guaranteed thanks to high altitude, and panoramic views across the Engadin lakes make every run unforgettable.
Find all the info: Corvatsch-Furtschellas ski area

2. Cross-Country Skiing on Frozen Lakes

Sils Maria is a cross-country paradise with direct access to over 240 km of trails in the Engadin. One of the highlights is gliding across the frozen Lake Sils on freshly prepared tracks—a unique alpine experience. From here, you can connect to the legendary Engadin Skimarathon trail, stretching all the way to Zuoz. Both skating and classic style are available, with trails suitable for all levels.
Trail maps: Cross-country skiing in the Engadin

3. Winter Hiking to Val Fex

For a slower pace, explore the picturesque Val Fex, a car-free valley that feels like stepping back in time. The winter hiking trail starts directly in Sils Maria and leads through snowy meadows and traditional hamlets to Hotel Fex, where you can warm up with a hearty Engadin meal. Horse-drawn sleigh rides are also available for an even more romantic journey.
Suggested route: Winter hike into Val Fex

4. Snowshoeing to Hidden Corners

Snowshoeing in Sils Maria allows you to reach places far away from ski slopes and trails. Routes like the Furtschellas Panorama Trail or the climb towards Lägh da Cavloc open up pristine landscapes and breathtaking lake views. Guided tours are available for beginners, and they often include stories about the local nature and history.

Explore the Celerina - Pontresina route

5. Ice Skating on Lake Sils or in Sils Village

Few things capture the magic of an Engadin winter like skating on a natural frozen lake. When conditions allow, Lake Sils transforms into a sparkling ice surface surrounded by mountains. Alternatively, the village rink in Sils Maria offers a more sheltered setting with equipment rental available. In the evenings, floodlights create a festive atmosphere perfect for families.

6. Sleigh Ride through Snowy Valleys

Wrap yourself in warm blankets and enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the Fex Valley or across the snowy plains around Sils. It’s one of the most iconic Engadin experiences, -perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking to slow down and savor the peaceful alpine scenery.

More info on Sledding

7. Tobogganing in Muottas Muragl & Preda-Bergün

If you’re craving a bit of speed, head to nearby Muottas Muragl or the famous Preda-Bergün sledge run. Muottas offers a scenic 4.2 km track with panoramic views, while Preda-Bergün is one of Switzerland’s longest toboggan runs (6 km) along a historic railway line. Both are easily reachable from Sils and make for unforgettable day trips.
More info: Preda-Bergün sledging

8. Winter Walk across the Frozen Lakes

When the lakes freeze solid, a magical network of winter walking paths is prepared across Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana. Walking across the frozen surface, surrounded by white peaks, is an unforgettable and uniquely Engadin experience. The paths are clearly marked and safe when open, giving you a completely new perspective of the landscape.

9. Relaxing Spa & Wellness

After a day outside, retreat into the warmth of a spa. Sils Maria has a long tradition of being a retreat for writers, philosophers, and nature lovers who valued its tranquillity. Our own Hotel Schweizerhof offers a relaxing wellness area with saunas and indoor pool—ideal for unwinding after snowy adventures. Combine active days with restorative moments to enjoy the best of both worlds.

10. Cultural Encounters in Sils Maria

Beyond sports, Sils Maria has a rich cultural heritage. Friedrich Nietzsche spent many summers here, inspired by the Engadin landscape. Today, you can visit the Nietzsche-Haus, which preserves his memory and writings. The village also hosts concerts and exhibitions throughout the winter, making it a hub for culture as well as alpine activity.
More info: Nietzsche-Haus Sils

‍

Plan Your Winter Adventure with Schweizerhof Sils Maria

With so many activities at your doorstep, Sils Maria is a dream destination for winter travelers who want to combine alpine sports, culture, and tranquillity. Staying at Schweizerhof means you’re right in the heart of the village, with trails, sleigh rides, and frozen lakes just steps away. After days of adventure, return to warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and mountain views that inspire in every season.