Hotel Steffani

The spa was my favorite part: a spacious pool, a calm, private feel, and two different saunas. It was just right for unwinding after skiing in the mountains. Breakfast was delicious and easy to navigate, with a main dish chosen from the menu plus a generous buffet of options. Hotel Steffani is right in the center of St. Moritz, only a three-minute walk from the funicular station. I had a comfortable, relaxing stay and would love to come back.

What troubled me most was the dining room arrangement at breakfast. I repeatedly saw waitstaff direct guests who appeared to be of Asian descent to a separate annex, whatever their group size. Solo travelers, couples, and larger parties were all sent there, while guests who did not appear Asian were seated in the main restaurant without question. Appearance seemed to be the only criterion. I consider this discriminatory practice, and it has no place in an establishment. Management should address it immediately, and prospective guests should know about it. The included buffet breakfast itself was mediocre at best. My room’s basic amenities also felt neglected: the Wi-Fi didn’t work, the fridge was unplugged, and the in-room phone was dead, so I couldn’t contact the front desk without going downstairs. The spa had a strong chemical smell as soon as I entered, and the coffee machine looked like the cheapest option available. These were failures of basic hospitality and an embarrassment to Swiss hospitality and precision. I booked partly because the website promised balconies with “fantastic views of the Engadine mountains.” A large hotel sits between the rooms and both the lake and those mountains, so “partial view” would be more accurate. That misleading description set the tone for a stay that confirmed my concerns.

Getting around was easy thanks to the great location. I was disappointed by the service, though: they seemed rushed, I had to ask three times for the bill, and then the waiter asked for extra cash as a service charge even though it was already on the bill. I realized afterward that I’d paid it twice. The food portion was another letdown. My €20 order was like a “kids” serving, so I’d recommend ordering twice.

The pool and spa were first rate, and there’s great shopping nearby. The bathroom and shower were clean and modern. Staff were friendly, helpful, quick to respond, and gave plenty of help with our bags. I’d recommend this hotel to a weary traveller.