Welcome to White Turf ...
As if you needed another reason to visit St. Moritz beyond the fact that it’s St. Moritz … then add White Turf to the mix and it’s a no brainer.
You may have been to a horse race before but I guarantee that you’ve never seen anything like this! White Turf is the only horse race in the world held on a frozen lake. Such a unique event, taking place in the glamorous alpine resort town of St. Moritz, located in the Swiss canton of Grabünden in the Engadine valley at 1800 meters above sea level.
White Turf is held annually over three Sundays in February. If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland during this timeframe, I highly recommend you check it out. If you’re interested in more details, keep reading …
I first saw this event come across my Facebook feed as an event, I “may be interested in.” Why, yes … Yes, I am interested in that! I swear Facebook knows all and it’s a bit creepy but I’ll just go with it.
I’ve been wanting to visit St. Moritz since moving to Switzerland and this event just moved it up the list. My husband and I decided to take a road trip and spend the weekend in St. Moritz but you could just as easily do a day trip to see the races.
Driving or taking the train are both very enjoyable experiences as they will take you through the spectacular picturesque Swiss mountain scenery. From Lucerne, it was a 2 hour and 50 minute drive through winding mountain roads of the Julier Pass. Alternatively, you could take the train and simply sit back and enjoy the scenic views from the efficient and comfortable Swiss Rail. Traveling by train is truly the easiest and most comfortable way to enjoy the beauty of Switzerland. However you choose to get there, the views will not disappoint!
Ticket Information
I purchased my tickets online but no need to fret as you can also purchase them at the entrance to the races. The price is the same whether you purchase them in advance or on the actual day of the event. We chose the basic “standing space” ticket for CHF 25 and were very happy with our purchase.
* Important Note: If you choose the standing space tickets, make sure you head to the fence about 15 minutes before each race to ensure you have a good view. Each race occurs roughly every 30 minutes and the most popular race by far is definitely the Skikjöring (explanation below), so get there early if you want a good view!
TICKET PRICES for 2020 ~
Standing space: CHF 25.– incl. race card and betting voucher
(Children up to 16 years free)
Grandstand:
Grandstand A (numbered seats): CHF 85.– incl. race card and betting voucher
Grandstand B (free seating): CHF 55.- incl. race card and betting voucher
Grandstand C (free seating): CHF 45.- incl. race card and betting voucher
Types of Races
There are several different types of races but whichever you choose to watch, it is certain that you will be blown away by the breathtaking visual of the sleek, sculpted horses against the pristine white backdrop of the Engadine mountains.
* Trotting Race: Also known as, harness racing. This type of race isn’t focused on speed as the horses must race at a specific pace. Horses pull a sulky (a two wheeled cart occupied by the driver) and race at a specific trot or pace.
* Flat Race: The most well known and traditional style of racing. Flat racing is a test of speed, stamina and skill of the jockey in choosing the appropriate tactics, as to where to position, when to restrain or make an effort in order to win.
* Pony Race: Similar to flat races but the ponies have to be a certain age and measurement and the jockeys are young riders riders (up to 17 years of age.)
* Skikjöring: This is by far the most popular and unique of all the races and such a thrill to watch. Jockeys are strapped to skis being pulled by a thoroughbred racehorse around the frozen lake and can reach up to 60 km/hr. Absolutely incredible! Drivers wear a protective suit and eyewear to protect themselves from flying ice.
It is also important to note that the horses run on the snow not ice, in addition to wearing protective shoes as to prevent slipping.
Let's Talk Atmosphere ...
Did I mention the pristine Engadine mountains? Well, let me mention them again as they are magnificent! In addition to the views, you’ll be in good company with purebred dogs of every kind being led by chic women (and men) in fur coats, the finest caviar and plenty of champagne flowing. This is coming across as sounding very, “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” but I’m so happy to report, that though the atmosphere is very rich, it is lacking the pretentious behavior. Everyone is welcome and and it is a good time all around. As you can see by my photos, I didn’t dress any different than I normally would but if you’ve got jewels or chic winter duds you’ve wanted to sport, this is certainly the place to shine.
That wraps up my experience at “White Turf” in St. Moritz. I hope you’ve found this post to be helpful and that I’ve inspired you to check it out. My hope is that I can help you experience more of the beautiful places and unique experiences this world has to offer, even if simply from the comfort of your own home. As always, thank you for reading and I would love to hear your thoughts.
Cheers xo
Jen
Beautiful
Author
Thank you 🙂