Lej da Staz

Lej da Staz (German: Stazersee) is a small forest lake in Celerina/Schlarigna, in the Engadin valley of the Swiss canton of Graubünden. It sits at roughly 1,809 m above sea level inside the Stazerwald woods, a short distance from Lake St. Moritz. Locals and visitors know it as one of the warmest swimming spots in the valley.

What kind of lake is it?

The lake is shallow, reaching about 4.7 m at its deepest, and ringed by spruce and larch. Its name comes from Romansh, the local language of the Engadin. The water is dark and peaty, and forest paths and picnic clearings surround the shore.

Why is the water warmer than in other Engadin lakes?

Because the basin is so shallow, the sun heats it quickly. In summer the water reaches about 20°C, while the bigger lakes of the valley seldom pass 17°C. That is why the shore gets busy on hot days.

How do you get there?

There is no road access for cars. You walk or cycle in. From the train stations in Celerina, Pontresina or St. Moritz it takes around 20 minutes by bike or 45 to 50 minutes on foot along a gentle forest track, which suits families too.

What facilities are there?

The shore has changing rooms, a jetty, a floating raft, toilets, a playground and fire pits. Lounge chairs and picnic spots on the grass are free; beach chairs carry a fee. A seasonal restaurant operates by the water. There is no lifeguard, so you swim at your own risk and children need constant supervision.

When is the best time to visit?

July and August on warm, sunny days are best for swimming, and the beach is open all day. Outside the bathing season the surrounding woods are good for walks and bike rides, and in winter the area turns into hiking and cross-country skiing terrain.

What else is nearby?

You can combine a visit with a walk through the Stazerwald towards Pontresina or a loop around the lakes of St. Moritz. Alp Staz is close by. The whole area belongs to the Engadin St. Moritz region.

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in Lej da Staz? Yes. It is a recognised bathing lake, but without lifeguards, so swimming is at your own risk.

Can I drive to the lake? No. The last stretch is covered on foot or by bike from Celerina, Pontresina or St. Moritz.

How warm is the water? About 20°C in summer, warmer than the larger Engadin lakes, which rarely exceed 17°C.

Are there toilets and food? Yes. The lake has toilets, changing rooms and a seasonal restaurant.