Simply Abu Dhabi XXXVI

2 6 6 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I Claimed as one of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes, days here are spent relaxing on the shores of turquoise waters flanked by alpine forests. Take a dip, paddle one of the many crafts, saunter a stroll or indulge on traditional fare whilst sitting on the sun-drenched terraces overlooking scenes of aquatic pleasure beyond. Other engorged puddles of Graubünden, include Lake Poschiavo. One visit here and you’ll be quietly pleased about the prehistoric rockfall which dammed this spectacularly beautiful body of water many moons ago. Attracting nature lovers and sports fans in equal measure, it's a perfect spot for swimming, fishing or simply strolling around its beautiful shores. To catch a different view of the lake’s forested banks merging high into the mountains, take a cruise and admire the reflections in its icy-blue waters. In winter, the frozen Lake of St. Moritz is an arena for horseracing, polo, cricket matches and all things avant garde, but in summer the rowers, sailing boats, fishermen and stand-up paddlers take over. Whatever your sport, head lakeside in the early morning to watch the first rays of sunshine dance on the water's surface. Of course, St Moritz is also home to a number of other beautiful lakes, each with their own special character. Thanks to the legendary Maloja wind, Lake Silvaplana has superb conditions for both windsurfing and kitesurfing and the lake of Lej Alv is ideal for a stroll encircling its shores. Reach the lake via a gondola or funicular although, given the altitude, swimming is only an option for the brave. Its shores do however provide a delightful relaxed setting for a picnic lunch as you savour the crisp mountain air and take in the views of the Engadin mountains beyond. Speaking of brave, a little further along, past the Swiss National Park is the highest city in Europe, Davos, known for its spectacular untouched glacial valleys, alpine lakes and of course the World Economic Forum – the annual meeting point for the crème de la crème of global leaders. Geopolitics aside, everyone else comes to Davos for monster ski runs, après ski parties and, in summer, the nearby Dischma Valley. Approximately 12 km in length, it is one of the longest tributary valleys in Davos which is fed by a glacier. Icy cold and clear as glass, the true way to experience Dischma Valley is by horse-drawn carriage which takes you into the valley along the quaintest of babbling streams. Unless of course dipping your toes in the ice cold waters takes your fancy! Best for views Sometimes aquatic pastimes are best enjoyed from a distance in which case take a horse and carriage from Lake Caumasee to the spectacular Rhine Gorge. The journey takes you through a wooded forest, across bright green meadows dotted with quintessential Swiss cabins to the viewing platform of Il Spir (Romansh for – the swift). Offering 180-degree views over what is referred to as the Little Swiss Grand Canyon – the colours of the craggy grey cliffs, the mint green Rhine River and the dark green forests are a perfect place to stop and meditate amongst nature’s glory. Alternatively, take a train on the famed Bernina Express - the highest rail journey in Europe and arguably the most beautiful in the world. Connecting the Swiss and Italian Alps, railfans can cross suspension bridges over bold gorges, gasp at the flawless views of icy-blue lakes and be awed at the wonder of the cascading Piz Palü Glacier. It’s not hard to see why part of the route (Albula/Bernina line) was awarded UNESCOWorld Heritage Status. Best for staying Stay in the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz - the ultimate in aquatic rejuvenation. For the Swiss, it’s home away from home – the largest and most comprehensive spa resort in the country – a place to unwind, eat well, bathe and natter in the sauna. For global guests, it's a place to consult the 70-strong team of medical specialists and therapists on all things wellness and water. No matter your mandate, the legendary spring water of Tamina Gorge is integrated into every aspect of your stay. From bobbing around blissfully in one of the resort’s many pools to rejuvenating the body in steam rooms, saunas and ice baths in the in-house thermal spa. Those who opt for the luxury of the spa suites also have the water piped directly to their room. Of course, in a place where hedonism is high, there is a water bar where a dedicated team of sommeliers will help you select one of the 30 waters available including the ‘Beneva BlackWater’ containing active carbon to stimulate detox and purification of the body. In line with your quest for achieving ‘optimal’ health, enjoy an evening at Sven Wassmer's signature fine-dining restaurant, Memories, which boasts twoMichelin stars and 18 GaultMillau points. Celebrating contemporary Alpine cuisine which takes inspiration from the forests, mountains and fields of the Swiss Alps, Wassmer has tapped into the rising trend of health- conscious dining by offering a non-alcoholic pairing menu, one of the few restaurants to offer such an experience. If the world of design is more your fancy then head to the 7132 Hotel, in Vals which is attached to the thermal baths of 7132 Therme. Often referred to as ‘the house of architects’, it has been masterminded by some of the world’s greats. Bathe in Tom Mayne’s stone retreat with glass- shower centrepiece or if you’re lucky enough to book one of the penthouses enjoy breathtaking views of the Alps whilst bathing in the quartzite Jacuzzi. Also home to 7132 Silver, their fine- dining restaurant boasts two Michelin stars and 18 Gault Millau points. Head Chef, Mitja Birlo, forages for wild herbs, berries, local mushrooms and river fish from high in the mountains to curate a surprise menu evoking memories from his global culinary journeys. For those who are all ‘watered’ out, then stay in the rooms of legends at the Hard Rock Hotel Davos. A luxury, music-inspired alpine escape with priceless memorabilia adorning the walls (including Michael Jackson’s sequined sweater), the hotel has an in-house Vibe Manager and guests are invited to reserve their choice of one of the 20 Fender® guitars to create a pop-up studio right in their very own room! Visit: www.graubuenden.ch/en