Chesa Pool Summer
A car-free valley, surrounded by mountains, with the soundtrack of marmots and the glacier river, summarize the charming Pensium Chesa Pool's surrounding. Sils Maria, the closest village is to be reached 15minutes on foot from the Hotel (don't worry, there's also a shuttle from/to the hotel 3times a day, or if you prefer to go old-school, the valley is also famous for its carriages).
If you're seeking outdoor sports, from the extreme to the light modalities, or a place to simply be and recharge the batteries, this is your go-to. The starting point of various trails (by foot or bike), Chesa Pool has everything to offer to sync with nature.
The house, originally from the year 1585, has approximately 19 comfy rooms in different categories and sizes, all embraced by Swiss pine, giving it a natural aroma (no added scents needed). Each room includes a little heart inside, to be hung outside of the room if the need for housekeeping exists - what a great way to have visitors actively opt-in for the cleaning service instead of taking it for granted. I stayed here for a week and only felt the need for the service once. A treat for the staff and nature - an example other hotels could get inspired by.
A terrace to dine and drink and more than enough space to read a book, do power naps or enjoy the alpine fresh air complement it all further. Not to mention the super friendly, family-like staff 💙
The restaurant is the first vegetarian in the Engadin region, with a promise for local specialities. Homemade bread and croissants for breakfast, homemade cakes (including the famous Nusstorte - nut pie) for any time in the day after 11 am (a coffee and cake on the terrace is a must). Homemade Pizzoccheri, as well as Rösti and Polenta and many other delicious dishes, are to be found in the Menu. If that is not enough, the kitchen creates an additional special dinner menu daily. The salad you order and the herbs on your dishes might be from the little vegetable garden located on the terrace. If not from there, then from a local producer at least 🙌
On most Sundays, a veggie BBQ with live music is not to be missed. On the day before my departure, I had the chance to taste the delicious food from the grill prepared by Geronimo, a friend from the family. All the sauces, as well as the bread, are made by himself. The explosion of tastes is unique—a must-try. The live music echoing throughout the valley adds an extra spice for the end of the week.
Additional cool facts to know: if you book a minimum of two nights, you get a ticket to ride freely in all busses and cable cars in the area (from Sils to St. Moritz) -it is the first time I see such an attractive deal offered by the region. Click here to see the map of the hikes available in the surroundings to start planning your trip. There's so much to do in the area that I often had to think that I could spend a whole month here taking pictures and soaking it all in.
When going for a hike or bike ride, there exists the possibility of ordering at the Hotel a lunch box (or sack, should I say 🙆♀️) the evening before, pick up in the morning and take with to the exploration. Sandwich, fruits, juice and something sweet will make sure that you have enough energy throughout the day.
All in all, a place I was eager to visit and has not let down my expectations (it highly exceeded). I look forward to coming back here, and I can highly recommend it to anyone needing an escape.
