The I.C.E. St. Moritz

A Phenomenon on Ice

Every winter, as the cold deepens and the snow falls heavier, a miraculous transformation takes place in the Engadine. Lake St. Moritz, typically a tranquil stretch of water, freezes into a dazzling white stage—a canvas upon which the world’s most extraordinary classic cars are displayed. The I.C.E. St. Moritz, the International Concours of Elegance, is a unique event that breathes new life into the bond between classic automobiles and the icy beauty of the Alps.

 

A Historic Bond with Classic Cars

St. Moritz and classic cars share a relationship steeped in history. For decades, this idyllic Swiss resort has hosted some of the most prestigious motoring events during the summer, when the roads are perfect for both scenic drives and competitive races. But The I.C.E. St. Moritz goes beyond the traditional. It challenges the very nature of a car show by taking it to the frozen surface of the lake, offering a new dimension where the elements of winter enhance the allure of the rarest and most iconic classic cars.

 

A Unique and Magical Event

The I.C.E. St. Moritz is not just another concours; it’s an experience that transcends the ordinary. Imagine a late-winter day where the low sun casts long shadows on the snow and the air is filled with the rumble of vintage engines. Drivers, collectors and car enthusiasts gather in this magical setting to celebrate the timeless beauty of automotive art. Here, the contrasts are stark and stunning—between the icy landscape and the warm passion for these mechanical masterpieces, between the stillness of the frozen lake and the lively buzz of the event.

 

The Spark of Inspiration

The idea for The I.C.E. was born in the mid-1980s, during the centennial celebrations of the Cresta Run, another legendary St. Moritz event. As vintage Bentley tourers glided across the frozen lake for the first time, an enduring vision was born. Marco Makaus, inspired by this scene, envisioned a grander event that would bring together classic cars and winter in a way the world had never seen. After years of planning and with the enthusiastic support of local and international partners, the first official edition of The I.C.E. St. Moritz took place in February 2022. It was a resounding success, proving that even the harshest winter conditions cannot quell the fire of genuine passion.

 

Discovering Perfection Frozen in Time

The I.C.E. St. Moritz is a two-day spectacle. It begins with an exclusive preview, where visitors are treated to a close-up view of these rare cars, each one a perfect blend of history, art and engineering. As dawn breaks over the snow-covered lake, the scene is set: a serene white expanse soon to be filled with the hum of engines and the gleam of chrome. Visitors, standing on the frozen surface, feel the thrill of this one-of-a-kind setting, where the past meets the present in a breathtaking display.

 

The Dynamic Parade: When Elegance Takes to the Track

On the second day, the event shifts gears. The cars, which were static showpieces the day before, now come alive in a dynamic parade. The frozen lake, hardened by the cold night, becomes a track where these vintage machines glide and roar. Gentlemen drivers, many of whom are experiencing this icy challenge for the first time, take to the track with a mix of caution and excitement. The cars, each a piece of history, slide and dance on the ice, their movements a testament to both the drivers’ skill and the machines resilience. It’s a spectacle that defies the laws of physics, where speed and elegance merge in a celebration of both man and machine.

A new trophy from Lord Norman Foster

The I.C.E. St. Moritz is thrilled to announce a new era of elegance with the unveiling of its Best in Show trophy, designed by the globally renowned architect, Lord Norman Foster. This stunning silver sculpture, housed in a bespoke wooden box also conceived by Lord Foster, captures the essence of the event and the Engadine's magical winter landscape.  Lord Foster, whose personal connection to St. Moritz is exemplified by his family home, the Chesa Futura, expressed his delight in creating this unique piece, stating, "It has been a pleasure to encapsulate the spirit of St Moritz and The I.C.E. event, which is a celebration of style and elegance.”  This commission underscores Lord Foster’s long-standing relationship with both the town and the automotive world, further cemented by his curation of the "Motion. Autos, Art, Architecture" exhibition at the Guggenheim Bilbao in 2022.  The trophy's creation by local manufacturer Koenig, at Lord Foster's request, adds another layer of significance to this exceptional gift to The I.C.E. and St. Moritz.

Experience the thrill

Experience the thrill of the I.C.E. St. Moritz while staying just minutes from the action at our hotel. After a day of excitement, unwind in one of our newly renovated rooms, designed for comfort and luxury. Perfect for car enthusiasts, our hotel offers the ideal retreat to complement your stay at this prestigious event.

Discover the White Turf Event