Lake Staz

Lej da Staz, Lake Staz, is a small, clear lake in a forest between Celerina and St. Moritz in the Upper Engadine, at around 1,800 metres above sea level. The name comes from Romansh, the fourth national language of Switzerland, spoken in parts of Graubünden, and the lake is often called the Stazersee in German. It lies in the Stazerwald, a forest of Swiss stone pine and larch that gives the lake a calm, sheltered setting, and it is one of the most popular short walking destinations in the Engadin because of its beauty and its easy access.

The lake’s character changes with the season. In summer, it is warmer than most mountain lakes because it is shallow and sheltered from wind, and it is a favourite place for a swim, with a small beach area and a lawn for sunbathing. The water is dark green and very clear, and the trees reflect in it on still days. In autumn, the larches around it turn gold and the air is crisp, which makes the lake a favourite among photographers. In winter, the lake freezes, and the paths around it are used for winter walking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with the snow-covered forest adding to the calm.

The walk to the lake from Celerina is short and easy, along a broad, partly paved path that climbs gently through the forest, and it takes about half an hour each way. The path can also be reached from St. Moritz, and it is suitable for families, strollers in many places and anyone who wants an undemanding stroll. A circuit path leads around the lake itself, which is small enough to walk in a short time. Benches and picnic places along the shore invite a pause, and there is a small restaurant or kiosk in the season, though facilities change.

The lake is within reach of other places listed nearby. The Marguns mountain station, a viewpoint reached by cable car from Celerina, and the Munt Pers viewpoints in the Bernina area give a more alpine perspective, and the lake can be combined with a visit to the village of Celerina and its old church. The Upper Engadine is known for its light, its string of lakes and its dry, sunny climate, and Lej da Staz is a gentle introduction to that landscape.

The lake suits families, swimmers, walkers and photographers. Go on a calm morning for the best reflections, and bring a picnic and a towel in summer.