Nestled at about 1,809 metres above sea level in the Engadin valley of Grisons, Switzerland, Lake of Staz — locally known as Lej da Staz — is a serene mountain lake surrounded by the Staz Forest and towering alpine peaks.

Its clear waters and tranquil setting make it a beloved natural retreat for visitors seeking refreshing walks, swimming spots, and picnic areas, with St. Moritz and Pontresina nearby offering convenient access points for day trips.

Whether you arrive in summer for a swim or enjoy peaceful reflections in cooler seasons, the lake's setting among mossy forest and mountain backdrops provides a calm contrast to busier lakeside destinations.

Getting There and Access

Lake of Staz can be reached by multiple means from nearby towns:

By Train and Walk:

The closest major transport hub is St. Moritz. From the train station, you can walk or cycle to the lake (about 50 minutes on foot or 20 minutes by bike) through easy forest paths that are well signposted.

By Foot from Celerina or Pontresina:

Trails from Celerina and Pontresina also lead to the lake through shaded forest tracks, offering scenic views along the way.

Parking:

There is limited metered parking in St. Moritz near Via Dimlej and Via Sela if you choose to start your visit from there and walk out to the lake.

The lake is open all day, and there is no general admission fee to enter the park or enjoy its natural spaces — access is free year round.

What to Do at Lake of Staz

Lake of Staz blends gentle recreation with woodland beauty, making it ideal for nature lovers and families.

Activities to Enjoy:

1. Lakeside Swimming & Relaxing

The lake invites casual swimming on warm days. While bathing is unsupervised, visitors can use changing rooms and walkways that lead to gentle water access points.

2. Picnics, Playgrounds & Forest Trails

Facilities include picnic areas, sunloungers, fire pits, and playground space near the Hotel Restaurant Lej da Staz. These give visitors plenty of options to relax lakeside or explore forest paths.

3. Hiking & Walking Circuits

There is a pleasant walking trail around Lake Staz itself, and longer loops that link Lake Staz with nearby St. Moritz and the bigger Lake St. Moritz. The terrain is mostly easy to moderate and suitable for a leisurely half day stroll.

Practical Visitor Tips

Trail Conditions & Clothing:

Forest and mountain paths can be uneven, particularly in wet conditions. Comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing are recommended even in summer, as alpine weather can shift quickly.

Facilities:

Toilets and changing facilities are available near the lake area, and the nearby Hotel Restaurant Lej da Staz offers dining options when open. Beach chairs near the restaurant may be available for a fee, and picnic spots around the lakeshore are free to use.

Safety:

Swimming is at your own risk as the lake is not supervised. Water temperatures vary by season, and it's advisable to check local weather and water conditions before entering.

Where to Stay and Local Pricing

Visitors often base themselves in St. Moritz or Celerina for easy access to Lake Staz. Accommodation options span from budget guesthouses to comfortable mid range hotels. In peak season, nightly rates typically range from $150–$300 USD for mid range hotels; simpler guesthouses may be slightly lower, while premium properties near the lakes and forests can exceed this.

Local eateries and supplies in St. Moritz allow you to organize picnics or grab meals before heading into nature. Train and local bus services facilitate easy connections, with regional public transport often included in hotel tourism cards depending on your stay.

Reflection on Nature and Quiet Moments

Lake of Staz is more than a scenic destination — it's a place that invites slow walking, clear thinking, and mindful appreciation of alpine stillness. Unlike some crowded alpine hotspots, this lake rewards those who take time to explore its forest trails, dip into its cool waters on warm days, or simply sit and watch clouds drift above pine lined shores. In a world where travel can rush from one sight to the next, Lake Staz offers a reminder that sometimes the most memorable experiences come from quiet moments in nature, where the landscape speaks softly and invites reflection.