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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Featured Cars at The ICE St. Moritz

One of the highlights of The ICE St. Moritz is the stunning array of classic and iconic cars that grace the frozen lake each year. These vehicles, carefully selected for their historical significance, design, and performance, represent the pinnacle of automotive excellence. Below are some of the most memorable cars that have participated in previous editions:

 

• Ferrari 375 MM Spider (1953): This legendary racing and road sports car is renowned for its elegance and power. With its sleek lines and roaring engine, the Ferrari 375 MM Spider is a symbol of Ferrari’s golden era, blending speed with sophistication.
• Bugatti Type 57 G “Tank” (1936): A true masterpiece of engineering, this Bugatti is a legendary racing car that exemplifies precision and innovation. Its streamlined design and racing pedigree make it a standout at any event.
• Lamborghini Miura SV (1972): Often hailed as the pioneer of the modern supercar, the Miura SV is a design icon. Its low-slung profile and mid-engine layout revolutionised the automotive world, earning it a cult following.
• Aston Martin DB3S (1955): A classic racing car, the DB3S is celebrated for its performance and timeless style. Known for its success on the track, this Aston Martin embodies the spirit of British motorsport heritage.

These cars, among others, transform the frozen lake into a living museum of automotive history, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the evolution of design and engineering.

 

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.

 

Why St. Moritz?

St. Moritz is not just a picturesque alpine town; it is the perfect stage for The ICE St. Moritz. The event’s unique setting on the frozen lake provides an unparalleled backdrop that sets it apart from any other car show in the world. Here’s why St. Moritz is the ideal location:

• The Frozen Lake: The frozen surface of Lake St. Moritz offers a one-of-a-kind canvas for displaying and driving classic cars. This natural ice rink allows for dynamic showcases, where cars can be admired both statically and in motion—a feature not possible at traditional car shows.
• Alpine Scenery: Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and clear blue skies, the alpine landscape adds a magical atmosphere to the event. The contrast between the gleaming cars and the pristine white snow creates a visual spectacle that is both breathtaking and exclusive.
• A Legacy of Motorsport and Elegance: St. Moritz has long been associated with motorsport and high society. Its reputation as a playground for the elite, combined with its history of hosting prestigious events, makes it the natural home for The ICE St. Moritz.

Discover why the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains is perfect for car enthusiasts. With state-of-the-art garage facilities and a range of tailored services, we ensure your automotive experience is as luxurious as your stay. Explore our offerings for automobile fans here.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

To help you prepare for The ICE St. Moritz 2026, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions:

• When does The ICE St. Moritz 2026 take place?
  The event will be announced soon. Be sure to check the official website for any updates.
• How can I purchase tickets?
  Tickets can be purchased online via the official The ICE St. Moritz website or at the venue on the day of the event, subject to availability.
• What is the dress code?
  While there is no strict dress code, attendees are encouraged to embrace the event’s elegant yet adventurous spirit. Think stylish winter attire that balances warmth with sophistication.
• Is the event family-friendly?
  Yes, The ICE St. Moritz welcomes visitors of all ages. Children are encouraged to attend and experience the magic of classic cars on ice.
• Are there accommodation packages available?
  Yes, special accommodation packages are available at the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains. For more details, visit the Rooms and Suites page.

 

How to Get to St. Moritz for The ICE St. Moritz

 

How can I reach St. Moritz by car?

• From the north (e.g., Zurich) or west (e.g., Bern, Lucerne, Geneva): Take the A13 motorway towards Chur. Continue on the A13 towards San Bernardino, passing through Chur. Exit at Thusis and follow the road to Tiefencastel, then to Savognin. Proceed through the Julier Pass to Silvaplana, and finally to St. Moritz.
• From the south (e.g., Lugano, Milan): Take the fastest route through the San Bernardino Pass to Thusis, then follow the same route as above. Alternatively, from Milan, you can take the road via Chiavenna and the Maloja Pass, though this route takes approximately 20 minutes longer.

Important: Always check road conditions and weather forecasts, especially during winter, as some roads may be closed or require special attention.

 

What is the best way to travel to St. Moritz by train?

Travelling to St. Moritz by train is a scenic and enjoyable experience:

• Swiss Federal Railways (SBB): Offers a delightful journey, with the route to St. Moritz being an adventure in itself.
• Rhaetian Railway (RhB): Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, this railway offers one of the most picturesque routes in the world. You can travel from Chur through the Albula tunnel or from Tirano in Italy over the Bernina Pass.

 

Can I fly to St. Moritz, and if so, how?

Yes, you can fly to St. Moritz via Engadin Airport:

• Engadin Airport: Located in Samedan, about 6 km from St. Moritz, it is Europe's highest-altitude airport at 1,707 metres above sea level.
• Accessibility: The airport is accessible by private jet, air taxi, helicopters, and gliders.

The combination of these elements ensures that The ICE St. Moritz is not just an event but an experience, where luxury, history, and nature converge.

The Inspiration Behind The ICE St. Moritz

The story of The ICE St. Moritz begins in the 1980s, when Marco Makaus, a passionate car enthusiast, witnessed vintage Bentley touring cars gliding across the frozen lake of St. Moritz. This captivating sight sparked the idea of creating a unique event that would celebrate the beauty of classic cars in an equally extraordinary setting.

After years of dreaming and planning, the first official edition of The ICE St. Moritz took place in 2022. Despite challenges such as unpredictable weather and the global pandemic, the event quickly gained popularity, drawing car lovers from around the world. Today, it stands as a testament to the vision of its founder and the enduring appeal of classic automobiles.

 

This narrative of inspiration and perseverance adds depth to the event, transforming it from a mere car show into a celebration of passion, history, and innovation.

 

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