Olympia Bob Run St. Moritz–Celerina

Olympia Bob Run St. Moritz–Celerina: Complete Guide to Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Sustainable Alpine Adventure

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Switzerland’s Engadin Valley, the Olympia Bob Run St. Moritz–Celerina is the world’s oldest and only remaining natural ice bobsleigh track. Since its opening in 1904, it has offered a thrilling blend of Olympic heritage, Alpine craftsmanship, and eco-friendly innovation. Each winter, the track is painstakingly rebuilt by hand using only snow and water, preserving time-honored traditions and providing a unique sporting experience (St. Moritz-Celerina Olympic Bobrun, Wikipedia; Olympia Bob Run Official Website).

With its 1,722-meter length, 19 challenging curves, and a 130-meter vertical drop, sleds can reach speeds over 135 km/h—an adrenaline rush for elite athletes and visitors alike. The track’s enduring legacy includes hosting the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympics and countless world championships, making it a pillar of winter sports history (IBSF Official Track Page; OMOTG Travel).

This guide details the Olympia Bob Run’s history, visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, travel tips, and sustainability practices, ensuring you have all the information needed for an unforgettable Swiss Alpine experience.

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development (1904–1920s)

The Olympia Bob Run began as a hand-built ice channel in 1904, inspired by British visitors to St. Moritz seeking new winter thrills. Rebuilt each year using traditional methods, the track set a standard for craftsmanship and authenticity. Its route, stretching from St. Moritz to Celerina through the Arvenwald forest, remains largely unchanged (St. Moritz Directory).

Growth and International Recognition

By the 1920s, the track gained international prominence, culminating in its selection for the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympic bobsleigh events. It has since hosted numerous world and European championships, cementing its reputation as a center for bobsleigh, skeleton, and luge (de.wikipedia.org; OMOTG Travel).

Sporting Innovations

The Olympia Bob Run is where the skeleton discipline was born and remains a multi-disciplinary venue. Its natural ice surface, rebuilt annually, means the track’s character subtly changes each season, challenging athletes and thrilling visitors (myswitzerland.com; St. Moritz Directory).

Beyond sport, the track is a cultural icon, with generations of local builders maintaining its unique construction. The tradition of guest rides began in the 1930s, allowing visitors to experience the speed and excitement firsthand (Cresta Bob Museum).

Preservation and Modern Operations

Despite the rise of artificial tracks, Olympia Bob Run endures as a natural-ice marvel, open each winter from December to March for competitions, training, and guest rides (myswitzerland.com; Olympia Bob Run Official Website).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Season

Season: Late December through early March (weather dependent)
Daily Hours: Typically 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; check official website for updates and event-specific timings (Olympia Bob Run Official Website)

Tickets and Booking

Guest Bobsleigh Ride: From CHF 160–269 per person
Skeleton Ride: From CHF 299 per person
Guided Tours: From CHF 20 per person

Tickets can be reserved online or purchased at the ticket office. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak periods (Book a Ride).

Accessibility

The visitor center and main spectator areas are wheelchair accessible. Guest rides require participants to be at least 18 years old and in good health; specific weight and height requirements apply. Contact the venue ahead for tailored accessibility support (Olympia Bob Run Visitor Info).

How to Get There

By Train: Rhaetian Railway to St. Moritz, then local bus or taxi (approx. 1.5 km to track)
By Car: Ample parking available, but public transport is encouraged for sustainability
By Bus: Regular connections from Swiss cities (SBB Swiss Railways)

On-Site Facilities

Visitor center with ticketing, restrooms, café, and souvenir shop
Multilingual staff (German, English, Italian, French)
Accessible viewing areas and event amenities

Experiences and Activities

Guest Rides

Experience the thrill of bobsleigh or skeleton, piloted by professionals at speeds up to 135 km/h. All necessary equipment is provided, and participants receive a commemorative certificate (Olympia Bob Run Guest Rides).

Guided Tours

Expert-led tours offer a walk along the entire track, behind-the-scenes insights, and access to iconic corners like the Horse-Shoe and Sunny Corner. Private and group tours are available by reservation (Olympia Bob Run Visitor Info).

Spectator Experience

Prime viewing spots include the start house, Horse-Shoe curve, and finish area. During major competitions, grandstands and live timing screens are available. Warm drinks and food stalls enhance the festive atmosphere (Event Calendar).

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays and early mornings for a quieter experience; event weekends for lively competitions
Dress Code: Warm, layered clothing with waterproof outerwear and sturdy shoes
Photography: Allowed except in restricted areas; drones require authorization (Visitor Guidelines)
Souvenirs: Shop at the visitor center for branded merchandise and ride photos (Shop)

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

The Olympia Bob Run is a global model for sustainable winter sports. Built exclusively from snow and water with no artificial refrigeration, its ecological approach protects the local environment and preserves Alpine traditions (Olympia Bob Run Sustainability; Unofficial Networks).

Management adapts to climate change by flexible scheduling, “snow farming,” and partnering with environmental organizations to ensure the track’s longevity and minimal ecological impact.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your trip with visits to:

Segantini Museum and Engadin Museum for culture
Lake St. Moritz and local ski resorts for outdoor recreation
Cresta Run for more sliding sport heritage
Gourmet dining and après-ski venues in St. Moritz and Celerina (Engadin Tourism)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When is the Olympia Bob Run open?
A: Late December to early March, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Check the official site for updates.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Book online or at the visitor center. Early booking is advised.

Q: Is the facility accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the visitor center and main viewing areas are accessible.

Q: Are there age or health restrictions for guest rides?
A: Participants must be 18+, healthy, and meet size requirements.

Q: What should I wear?
A: Warm, layered, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes.

Visuals and Interactive Content

Explore virtual tours and image galleries on the official website, with high-resolution photos:

Construction: “Olympia Bob Run St. Moritz natural ice bobsleigh track construction”
Action: “Olympia Bob Run St. Moritz guest ride reaching 135 km/h”
History: “Historic bobsleigh race at Olympia Bob Run St. Moritz 1904”

Conclusion and Recommendations

The Olympia Bob Run St. Moritz–Celerina is a testament to Alpine heritage, Olympic legacy, and responsible tourism. Whether you seek adrenaline, history, or sustainability, the track promises a memorable visit. Plan ahead, embrace eco-friendly travel, and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most unique winter sports experiences.

For the latest updates, ticket information, and travel tips, consult the official Olympia Bob Run website, and consider using the Audiala app for exclusive content and event alerts.