Lake Staz (also called Lej da Staz) is one of the hidden gems of the Upper Engadin region of Switzerland — a forest framed alpine lake that offers tranquil waters, walking trails, swimming spots, and mountain views.

Nestled near the elegant town of St. Moritz, it's a refreshing travel destination often overlooked for bigger lakes but beloved by those who find it.

Where It Is and Why It's Special

Lake Staz sits at about 1,809 m (5,934 ft) above sea level in the Stazerwald forest near Celerina and St. Moritz in the Engadin valley. Unlike big tourist packed alpine lakes, Lake Staz feels intimate and natural: crystal waters relax under forest canopies, and the silhouette of mountains frames the shoreline in a way that makes you pause.

This lake is especially appealing to travelers who appreciate peace, scenic walks, and an opportunity to swim in open water during summer. The setting invites you to slow down and listen to the rustle of trees and the surface of the lake lapping at the shore.

Getting There: Transport Options

Lake Staz is easy to reach from nearby towns:

• Train + walk: The closest rail hub is St. Moritz station. From there, you can catch a local bus toward Stazerwald or hike on scenic forest paths that lead to the lake.

• Car or bike: Driving or cycling from St. Moritz or Celerina takes you through gentle valley roads to the forest edge; there are small parking and trailhead points nearby.

• On foot: Many visitors choose to hike — the paths from St. Moritz to Lake Staz follow shaded trails through meadows and woods, offering beautiful panoramas even before you arrive.

The best approach often depends on your itinerary: if you're staying in St. Moritz, walking or biking adds a refreshing outdoor start to your day, while a train plus short hike suits those coming from further afield.

What to Do at Lake Staz

Lake Staz is not simply a place to look at — it's a place to experience actively. Options include:

1. Swimming and Water Fun

In summer months, the water is clear and inviting. There are no lifeguards, so you swim at your own risk, but many visitors enjoy a refreshing dip on warm days. Changing rooms and a small pier make access easy.

2. Hiking & Forest Trails

A loop trail around the lake and connecting paths through the Stazerwald offer about 1–3 hours of easy walking. These trails are ideal for all levels, including families with children.

3. Picnics & Relaxation Spots

There are picnic clearings, fire pits, and sun lounger areas. Whether you bring your own meal or grab a coffee from the Hotel Restaurant nearby, it's an excellent setting for a slow midday break.

4. Photography & Nature Moments

Early mornings and late afternoons showcase magical light across the lake surface. Photographers prize the reflections, while nature lovers often linger for birds and woodland sounds.

Facilities and Practical Info

• Facilities: Changing rooms, toilets, a small pier, and boat/raft access are available.

• Hotel Restaurant: Lej da Staz sits right by the lake; great for lunch or an afternoon stop.

• Fees: No general entrance fee is charged to visit the lake. Activities like picnic chair rentals may involve small charges.

• Best seasons: Late spring through early autumn (May–September) is ideal for swimming and walking. In winter the area becomes snowy and beautiful for winter walking or snowshoeing.

Where to Stay Nearby

The most practical base for visiting Lake Staz is St. Moritz, a town known for its luxury hotels, scenic promenade, and rail connections. A night here puts you within easy reach of the lake and other Upper Engadin highlights.

Budget travelers can consider guesthouses or small hotels in Celerina, a town just minutes away by bus or bike. Prices vary by season, with summer rates typically around $90–$150 per night for modest lodgings, and higher in high season (July–August) for popular places.

Reflection: Slow Travel in the Alps

Lake Staz doesn't shout for attention like some of the big alpine lakes — and that's precisely its charm. It rewards travelers who arrive with time to spare, who'll take early morning paths into misty woods and linger over a lakeside picnic as clouds drift above. In a region celebrated for dramatic peaks and grand vistas, Staz invites you to savor stillness and the simplicity of water meeting wood. Sometimes in travel, the quieter places become the most lasting memories.