But Engadin La Diagonela is about much more than elite racing. The event combines world-class cross-country skiing with an unforgettable alpine experience, offering races and experiences for ambitious athletes, recreational skiers and newcomers alike. 

For many international cross-country skiers, the Engadin is synonymous with one famous name: St. Moritz. But at the finish of Engadin La Diagonela, another destination takes centre stage. 

After kilometres of skiing through one of the most spectacular winter landscapes in the Alps, the athletes don’t cross the finish line in a stadium or on an anonymous finishing straight. Instead, they ski directly into the heart of Zuoz – a historic Engadin village where narrow streets, traditional houses and cheering spectators create a finish unlike almost anywhere else in cross-country skiing. 

For Madlaina Hui, who has been responsible for Tourism Management for the Plaiv municipalities of Madulain, Zuoz and S-chanf at Engadin Tourism since March 2025, this combination is exactly what makes the destination so special. 

As a member of the core organizing committee of Engadin La Diagonela, she is responsible for side events and ceremonies and also coordinates accommodation for the event. 

“Zuoz combines living Engadin traditions with an open and international atmosphere in a very special way,” says Hui, adding: “The historic village centre, with its old Engadin houses, narrow streets and characteristic squares, has remained wonderfully authentic. At the same time, Zuoz is a lively village where sport, culture and everyday life naturally belong together.” 

And that is exactly where the athletes arrive. 

“During Engadin La Diagonela, the skiers don’t simply finish somewhere – they finish right in the middle of a real Engadin village.” 

Also Read – Engadin La Diagonela 2027: four days of cross-country skiing in the heart of the Swiss Alps

Beyond St. Moritz – Discovering another side of the Engadin 

St. Moritz is internationally famous. But for visitors travelling to the Engadin for the first time, Zuoz offers a different perspective. 

“St. Moritz is world-famous. Zuoz is nearby, but at the same time a little away from the hustle and bustle,” explains Hui. “It shows another, very authentic side of the Engadin.” 

The village has preserved its traditional character and the Romansh language, while offering visitors culture, sport and access to the vast cross-country skiing network of the Upper Engadin. 

There is also plenty to discover away from the ski tracks: galleries, historic buildings and cultural attractions all form part of the village experience. 

“Imagine a classic Engadin village surrounded by an impressive mountain landscape, with lots of history, sunshine and snow – but at the same time with a lively atmosphere,” Hui says. 

Zuoz is small enough to explore on foot, yet diverse enough to keep visitors busy. 

For those interested in culture, a walk through the historic village is highly recommended. The Chesa Planta, home to the cultural archive, and the San Luzi Reformed Church, with its renowned stained-glass windows, are among the highlights. 

Another special stop is the Café Badilatti, home to Graubünden’s oldest coffee roastery and the Caferama coffee museum. 

And for visitors who want to learn even more about the village, guided village tours offer fascinating insights into Zuoz’s history and culture. 

Where sport meets Engadin tradition 

During the Engadin La Diagonela weekend, the atmosphere in Zuoz changes. 

“There is a very special energy in the village during this weekend,” says Hui. “Even before the race, cross-country skiers are out and about, final preparations are taking place, and you can feel the anticipation everywhere.” 

Then, suddenly, the race arrives. 

“The course leads directly into the historic village centre – elite sport and Engadin tradition suddenly meet each other. Add the snow-covered houses, the narrow streets and hopefully bright sunshine, and you have a truly unique setting for a cross-country ski race.” 

For athletes competing in the main race, the final climb towards Zuoz can be a demanding challenge. 

“After 55 kilometres of cross-country skiing through one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Alps, reaching the finish is already a special moment,” Hui explains. 

“But in Zuoz, you don’t arrive on an anonymous finishing straight. The final metres take you through the historic village centre, with spectators standing close to the course. The old Engadin houses create a backdrop that you will probably not find anywhere else in cross-country skiing.” 

The finish line – and then the celebration begins 

The emotions immediately after crossing the finish line are easy to imagine. 

“First and foremost: relief that you have made it,” says Hui with a smile. 

The athletes receive a warm welcome from the event speakers before joining the lively atmosphere around the finish area. 

Spectators, fellow participants and athletes come together to celebrate the achievement, enjoy food and share the experience. 

“This closeness between athletes and spectators makes the finish in Zuoz particularly friendly and personal,” Hui says. 

And after a long day on the skis, there is one Engadin speciality she especially recommends: 

Capuns. 

“After sport, something hearty is exactly what you need,” she says. 

The traditional Engadin speciality can, for example, be enjoyed at the Restaurant Crusch Alva, located close to the finish area. 

Stay longer and discover the Engadin 

For Scandinavian visitors travelling all the way to Switzerland, Hui has one clear recommendation: don’t leave immediately after the race. 

“Anyone who is already here should take the opportunity to stay for a few extra days and discover the huge cross-country skiing area,” she says. 

And after the race, there is no longer any need to focus on performance. 

“You can simply enjoy the landscape – whether skiing, ski touring, winter hiking or taking a walk through the Engadin villages.” 

Culture lovers will also find plenty to explore, with galleries, historic buildings and cultural institutions throughout the region. 

For a change from cross-country skiing, Hui recommends swapping the narrow skis for alpine skis. 

The Zuoz ski area, located directly above the village, offers sunny slopes for beginners and experienced skiers alike. 

“The area is manageable and family-friendly, allowing you to ski at a relaxed pace while enjoying views across the Engadin.” 

Another winter highlight is ice skating. A unique 2.5-kilometre ice trail leads from Madulain through a beautiful riverside landscape along the Inn to Zuoz. 

For those who prefer a slower pace, winter hiking and sledging offer another way to enjoy the snowy surroundings. 

A personal favourite above the village 

Even for someone who spends much of her professional and private life in the Engadin, there are still special places. 

Madlaina Hui’s favourite spot is located above Zuoz on the way towards Pizzet. 

“There is a beautiful, sunny bench with a wonderful view over the village,” she says. 

Next to the bench stands a small wooden house filled with books for every mood. 

“It’s a place to sit down, enjoy the view, and disappear into a story.” 

Looking ahead to Engadin La Diagonela 2027 

As a passionate outdoor enthusiast and cross-country skier herself, Hui spends much of her free time on the Engadin trails. She also enjoys skiing – preferably away from the pistes and on ski tours – while summer is dedicated to mountain biking, mountaineering and climbing. 

And when Engadin La Diagonela returns in January 2027, there is one moment she is particularly looking forward to. 

“I am especially looking forward to the unique atmosphere in the village when the cross-country skiers come through Zuoz towards the finish,” she says. 

“Every year, it is impressive to see athletes from all over the world meeting in the middle of the historic village centre and celebrating this special moment together.” 

And, of course, there is one wish that everyone in the Engadin shares: 

“Lots of snow, bright sunshine and a fantastic winter atmosphere!” 

Register now and experience Engadin La Diagonela 

From January 14 to 17, 2027, an exciting and varied programme awaits you at Engadin La Diagonela. 

With race distances ranging from 6 to 55 kilometres, there is a challenge for everyone – from experienced cross-country skiers chasing a personal goal to newcomers taking their first steps into the world of long-distance skiing. 

And there is more good news for the next generation: young athletes born in 2007 or later can take part in all races free of charge. 

Register now for Engadin La Diagonela and become part of an unforgettable weekend of cross-country skiing in the heart of the Swiss Alps.  Registration and more information: www.ladiagonela.ch