Cresta Run - a group of young people running on a track
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Cresta Run

4.7
·78 reviews·Sankt Moritz, Switzerland

A legendary 1,200m natural ice run, hand-carved annually, where riders reach 140 km/h. Experience pure adrenaline!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter mornings

Crisp air, fresh ice

CrowdMedium
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Cresta Run - a group of young people running on a track

Cresta Run

Best Time

Winter mornings

Crisp air, fresh ice

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A legendary 1,200m natural ice run, hand-carved annually, where riders reach 140 km/h. Experience pure adrenaline!

4.7
(78 reviews)

"The most fun you can have with your clothes on."

Vertical photo
TIP

Warm Layers Are Key

Bundle up! It's an outdoor ice track, so expect cold temperatures. :snowflake:

Book Your Ride Early

Spots on the Cresta Run fill up fast. Secure your thrilling descent in advance! :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cresta Run Itself

The Cresta Run Itself

St. Moritz to Celerina

Experience the legendary 1,200m natural ice track, hand-carved annually for pure adrenaline.

The Shuttlecock Curve

The Shuttlecock Curve

Mid-track

Witness or attempt the infamous curve where riders can earn the coveted 'Shuttlecock' badge.

Public Viewing Platform

Public Viewing Platform

Near the finish line

Get a thrilling perspective of riders hurtling down the icy track without taking the plunge yourself.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Thrill (and the Cold!)

The Cresta Run is a natural ice track, hand-carved annually. It's not for the faint of heart, with speeds reaching 140 km/h! Dress in warm layers, as you'll be exposed to the elements. Consider booking your ride in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on this iconic winter adventure.

Know Before You Go: The Shuttlecock

A unique aspect of the Cresta Run is the 'Shuttlecock' – a curve where riders can be ejected if they lose control. Earning the Shuttlecock badge is a badge of honor for many! If you're not riding, the public viewing platform offers great views, though it can get busy.

Best Times

When
Winter mornings
Why
Crisp air, fresh ice
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
More riders, lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

“三峡龙脊”, es una clásica ruta de senderismo y #trailrunning de 12 kilómetros por la cresta en el condado de Wushan, Chongqing, en el corazón de la región del embalse de las Tres Gargantas. El sendero sigue un antiguo sendero de montaña que asciende unos 1000 metros hasta la cima del pico Denglong, uno de los famosos Doce Picos de la Garganta Wu, de ahí el nombre de "Cresta Loong (Dragón)” La región ...
@ingravidosradio
2K likes • 44.1K views

Warm Layers Are Key

Bundle up! It's an outdoor ice track, so expect cold temperatures. :snowflake: Instagram

Book Your Ride Early

Spots on the Cresta Run fill up fast. Secure your thrilling descent in advance! :ticket: Instagram

Have you tried @thecrestarun? An iconic piece of sporting history, the 137-year-old, high-velocity ice track has been hand-carved into the mountainside, taking brave riders 1,200m from St. Moritz to Celerina in just over a minute. Experience it for yourself this winter at Kulm. 📷 2: @capturedbytino 📷 3: @johnhreinke #Kulm
kulmhotel
626 likes • 0 views
Kicking off 2023 with a bang 💥 & officially a member of Shuttlecock Club #cresta #crestarun #newyear #nye #newyear #2023 #stmoritz #stmoritztopoftheworld #switzerland #swissalps #shuttlecock
anakinsg
425 likes • 0 views

The Shuttlecock Challenge

Aim for the Shuttlecock curve – it's a rite of passage for riders! :muscle: Instagram

Spectator Views

The public viewing platform offers fantastic, albeit crowded, views of the action. :camerawithflash: Reddit

George had been dreaming, he woke up all in a sweat… He’s been on the Cresta Run in St. Moritz and had made record time on the skeleton. He couldn’t resist getting the toboggan out of the attic and flying down the stairs into the Great Hall, live the dream he thought. It didn’t take long to realised this wasn’t such a good idea, fortunately no damage to himself or the stairs and time to head b...
sirharryplopper
315 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Warm Layers Are Key

Bundle up! It's an outdoor ice track, so expect cold temperatures. :snowflake: Instagram

Book Your Ride Early

Spots on the Cresta Run fill up fast. Secure your thrilling descent in advance! :ticket: Instagram

The Shuttlecock Challenge

Aim for the Shuttlecock curve – it's a rite of passage for riders! :muscle: Instagram

Spectator Views

The public viewing platform offers fantastic, albeit crowded, views of the action. :camerawithflash: Reddit

Join the Club Spirit

The Cresta Run has a unique, friendly atmosphere with passionate members. :heart: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(78 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Cresta Run is hailed as an exhilarating masterpiece and a legendary winter sports icon, offering an unparalleled tobogganing experience. Visitors rave about the thrilling blend of speed and precision, the unique adventure, and the fun, friendly atmosphere. It's a must-try for those seeking excitement.

"The Cresta Run is an exhilarating masterpiece, a thrilling blend of speed and precision. Its icy twists and scenic beauty make it a legendary winter sports icon, offering an unparalleled tobogganing experience. It's not just a track; it's an adventure that captivates and thrills, a true celebration of the human spirit's love for excitement."

Giovanni Perani

"One of my favorite Hobbys in Winter. 10/10 recommended"

Moritz Hütte

"It was awesome to be able to see this with my own eyes, definitely a unique experience! The public viewing platform wasn’t too crowded and provided decent visibility."

Gab MD

What People Like

Exhilarating speed and thrill
Unique tobogganing experience
Friendly club atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be expensive to ride

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cresta Run is located in St. Moritz, Switzerland. You can reach St. Moritz by train, which is a scenic journey through the Alps. From the town center, the run is typically a short walk or taxi ride away. Check local transport options upon arrival. Instagram

Parking in St. Moritz can be limited, especially during peak winter season. It's often recommended to use public transport or taxis to reach the Cresta Run area to avoid parking hassles. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Riding the Cresta Run involves membership or guest fees, which can vary. It's best to check the official Cresta Run website (cresta-run.com) for the most current pricing and membership options. TikTokInstagram

While the Cresta Run is famous for its exclusive club, it does offer opportunities for guests to ride. You'll need to meet certain criteria and potentially be accompanied by a member. Check their website for details on guest access. Instagram

The Cresta Run operates seasonally during the winter months, typically from December to March. Specific daily hours can vary, so it's essential to consult the official Cresta Run schedule for the exact operating times during your visit. Instagram

Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially if you wish to ride. The Cresta Run is a popular attraction, and slots can fill up quickly. Visit their official website to make reservations. Instagram+1

The Shuttlecock is a notorious curve on the Cresta Run. Riders who lose control and are ejected from their toboggan at this point earn the unofficial 'Shuttlecock' badge, a badge of honor for some! InstagramReddit

🎫 🛷 Onsite Experience

Riding the Cresta Run is an adrenaline-pumping experience. You'll lie on your stomach on a toboggan, steering with your body, and reaching incredible speeds down a natural ice track. It's a unique blend of speed, skill, and bravery. InstagramReddit

You'll need warm, waterproof clothing, including a helmet, gloves, and sturdy footwear. The St. Moritz Tobogganing Club often provides some necessary safety equipment, but check their requirements beforehand. TikTokInstagram

While thrilling, the Cresta Run is a serious sporting event with inherent risks. Riders are briefed on safety procedures, and the track is maintained meticulously. It's crucial to follow all instructions from the officials. Instagram

Absolutely! There's a public viewing platform near the finish line where you can watch the riders zoom past. It's a great way to experience the excitement without the physical challenge. Reddit

The Cresta Run is over 130 years old, dating back to 1884. It was invented by British visitors and is still largely run by a British club today, attracting international 'jet set' enthusiasts. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The public viewing platform offers good vantage points. For more dynamic shots, consider areas along the track where riders are visible, but always be mindful of safety and do not obstruct the run. Reddit

Generally, taking photos or videos while riding is not permitted due to safety regulations. Focus on enjoying the ride and capturing memories afterward. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Cresta Run itself is generally for adults and older teens due to the speed and physical demands, families can still enjoy the spectacle. The public viewing platform provides an exciting way for everyone to witness the thrilling rides. It's a great opportunity to explain the sport and its history to younger visitors. Reddit

Consider visiting during less crowded times if possible, or arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. The sheer speed and daring of the riders are captivating for all ages, offering a memorable experience of St. Moritz's unique winter heritage.

💰 Budget Travelers

Riding the Cresta Run can be a significant expense due to membership and guest fees. However, experiencing it as a spectator is a much more budget-friendly option. The public viewing platform offers fantastic views for free or a minimal charge, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and excitement without the high cost of participation. Reddit

Focus on enjoying the stunning alpine scenery of St. Moritz and exploring other free or low-cost activities in the area. The Cresta Run's visual spectacle alone is worth the visit for many.

❤️ Couples

For adventurous couples, riding the Cresta Run together can be an incredibly bonding and exhilarating experience. Imagine the shared adrenaline rush as you both tackle the icy track! It's a unique way to create lasting memories. Instagram

Alternatively, enjoy a romantic day out by watching the riders from the viewing platform, perhaps with a warm drink in hand. The dramatic setting of the Swiss Alps adds to the charm, making it a memorable outing for any couple visiting St. Moritz.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of the Ride: What to Expect

Riding the Cresta Run is an experience unlike any other. Participants lie headfirst on a specialized toboggan, using their body weight to steer down the 1,200-meter natural ice track. Speeds can reach up to 140 km/h, making it a true test of nerve and control. The track features ten challenging corners, each with its own unique character and potential for excitement – or a 'Shuttlecock' ejection! InstagramReddit

Before your ride, you'll receive a safety briefing and instruction on how to steer and brake. While the St. Moritz Tobogganing Club (SMTC) provides some essential safety gear, it's crucial to wear warm, waterproof clothing, including a helmet and gloves. The feeling of hurtling down the icy chute, with the wind rushing past, is exhilarating and unforgettable. Instagram

For those who prefer to spectate, the public viewing platform offers a fantastic, albeit often crowded, vantage point to witness the daring riders as they navigate the treacherous course. It’s a chance to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the skill involved without the personal risk. Reddit

A Legacy of Winter Sport: History and Culture

The Cresta Run boasts a rich history, dating back to the winter of 1884/85. It was conceived by British visitors to St. Moritz seeking a new winter thrill. To this day, the St. Moritz Tobogganing Club (SMTC) remains British-run, attracting a global clientele of enthusiasts eager to test their mettle on the icy slopes. Instagram+1

This iconic track is more than just a sporting venue; it's a cultural institution in St. Moritz. The annual construction of the run from scratch using natural ice and snow is a testament to the dedication and tradition surrounding the sport. Earning a Cresta Run badge, especially the coveted 'Shuttlecock' for surviving a particular curve, is a significant achievement for many riders. InstagramReddit

The atmosphere at the Cresta Run is often described as friendly and convivial, with a shared passion for the sport uniting members and guests. It's a place where legends are made and where the spirit of adventure thrives, making it a must-visit for winter sports aficionados and thrill-seekers alike. Reddit

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