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“A cross between a giant Bavarian Schloss and a fairytale castle (complete with fake turrets and crenellated walls), the Palace is in the middle of town, has one of the best nightclubs, and a wonderful spa. It is a five-minute walk to the lift on Via Stredas, and the hotel minibus leaves regularly from the front door each morning for the first leg of the trip up the mountain on the blue train.

Room rates include breakfast buffet, bathrobe, fruit/flowers, access to the hotel pool, sauna, steam, whirlpool, gym, ice rink and King’s Club (nightclub), and VAT. The spa was redone recently, and is really phenomenal. Call ahead to book several massage appointments, as they go fast during the high season from late January through February. Jacket and tie is required in all public areas after 7:30 PM. Additionally, in-room Internet access through laptop PCs is easy (at least through local AOL access). The hotel can provide the appropriate power and telephone adapters, if needed.

The Palace Hotel has an excellent ski shop where equipment can be rented, skis tuned and bindings adjusted. Corviglia Sport, on the way up to the Bergbahn (Blue Train) also has a ski-tuning machine, and EnderSport, across from Via Tinus, also rents equipment.

Whether traveling by plane or train, be sure to tell the Palace of your plans. They will have a midnight blue Rolls-Royce pick you up at the station in St.Moritz or the airport in Samedan.”

From a longtime regular from N.Y.

Double rooms from $450, depending on the season; minimum-stay requirements apply at holidays.