After the opening weekend in Bad Gastein, the Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII heads to Switzerland and the Engadin Valley, home of winter sports heritage and postcard-perfect alpine scenery. On Saturday, January 17, 2026, the spotlight turns to the Engadin La Diagonela — a 55-kilometer classic race from Pontresina to Zuoz and a true highlight of the long-distance skiing calendar.
Since joining the Pro Tour in Season IV, Engadin La Diagonela has become a cornerstone of Ski Classics, combining Swiss precision, alpine scenery, and high-altitude endurance. Taking place above 1,800 meters, it’s a race that challenges even the strongest athletes with its thin air, tactical climbs, and open valley winds.
“As every year, we are thrilled to be part of the Ski Classics Pro Tour Series with Engadin La Diagonela. Welcoming athletes from near and far, both professionals and recreational skiers, to the Engadin Valley. Enjoy an unforgettable experience with us!” says Ramun Ratti, President of Engadin La Diagonela.
A race shaped by altitude and heritage
The 55km course runs through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Switzerland — from the start in Pontresina, across frozen lakes, open plains, and traditional Engadin villages, to the finish in Zuoz. The highest point reaches 1,832 meters, with a total elevation gain of 659 meters.
Last season, Silje Øyre Slind (1:58:47.4) and Amund Riege (1:44:35.6) claimed the victories, proving that patience and altitude adaptation are key to mastering this race.
This year, with the Pro Tour standings taking early shape, Engadin La Diagonela is once again expected to play a decisive role in the battle for points and prestige.
Challengers and local races – a whole Engadin weekend
Beyond the Pro Tour event, the Engadin weekend offers something for everyone.
- La Saireda Roseg (January 15) – a 10.5km classic Ski Classics Challengers race with a mass start in Pontresina.
- La Sfida (January 18) – a 28km freestyle race from Zuoz to Silvaplana, also part of the Challengers circuit.
- La Pachifica (25km) and La Cuorta (6km) – classic technique recreational events that allow skiers of all levels to experience the Engadin trails.
All registrations are open —REGISTER HERE!
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The Engadin experience – beyond the race
The Engadin Valley is a destination that blends sport, culture, and nature in perfect harmony.
Surrounded by glaciers and high peaks, the region offers over 220 kilometers of groomed trails, long hours of sunshine, and authentic Swiss charm. Between training sessions or cheering along the course, visitors can enjoy some of the most scenic experiences in the Alps.
What to see and do
- Muottas Muragl – panoramic views of the entire valley, perfect for a post-race hike or meal with a view.
- Ice Path Madulain – glide along the frozen Inn River between Madulain and Zuoz.
- Olympia Bob Run St. Moritz–Celerina – the world’s oldest and only natural ice bobsleigh track.
- Museum Engiadinais – explore traditional Engadin architecture and living culture.
- Spa & Wellness – relax at the vertical Mineral Bath & Spa Samedan, a stunning multi-level thermal experience.
Where to stay
From timeless Swiss classics to modern design hotels, accommodation options in the Engadin are as diverse as the valley itself:
- Hotel Castell (Zuoz) – art, design, and views.
- Hotel Steffani (St. Moritz) – heritage and prime location.
- Sunstar (Pontresina) – modern comfort.
- Hotel Albana (Silvaplana) – boutique style and fine cuisine.
- Hotel Allegra (Zuoz) – cozy and central.
- Crystal Hotel (St. Moritz) – alpine chic.
- Engadiner Hof (Pontresina) – traditional hospitality.
- Laudinella Hotel Group (St. Moritz) – culture and culinary diversity.
- Hotel Maistra 160 (Pontresina) – sleek and contemporary.
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Where to eat
- Laagers (Samedan) – confectionery and the region’s famous nut cake.
- Furnaria Grond (Sils) – bakery and café with Engadin specialties.
- Pugliese Müsella (La Punt) – authentic Italian cuisine and pizza.
- Caruso (St. Moritz) – Mediterranean and pasta.
- Stüvetta Bernina(Pontresina) – authentic regional dishes.
- Restaurant Donatz (Samedan) – refined local cuisine.
- La Stalla (St. Moritz) – a touch of Swiss culinary tradition with warm alpine classics
- Riccardo’s (St. Moritz & Pontresina) – Italian classics.
A valley of beauty and endurance
With its blend of sporting excellence and alpine culture, Engadin La Diagonela represents everything Ski Classics stands for: long-distance passion, endurance, and connection with the landscape.
For professionals, it’s a test of altitude and tactics. For visitors, it’s a celebration of winter in one of Europe’s most enchanting valleys.
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Engadin La Diagonela – Ski Classics Pro Tour Event 3
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
- Location: Pontresina–Zuoz, Switzerland
- Distance: 55km Classic Technique
- Highest Point: 1,832m
- Elevation Gain: 659m
- Last Edition Winners: Silje Øyre Slind (1:58:47.4) & Amund Riege (1:44:35.6)
- More info: www.skiclassics.com | ladiagonela.ch
Follow the action
- Instagram: @ladiagonela
- Facebook: facebook.com/ladiagonela
Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII (2025/2026)
- Event 1: December 13, 2025 – Bad Gastein Pro Team Tempo – Sportgastein, Austria, 7km
- Event 2: December 14, 2025 – Bad Gastein Criterium – Sportgastein, Austria, 36km
- Event 3: January 17, 2026 – Engadin La Diagonela – Pontresina-Zuoz, Switzerland, 55km
- Event 4: January 25, 2026 – Marcialonga – Moena-Cavalese, Italy, 70km
- Event 5: January 30, 2026 – Bedřichov Sprint – Bedřichov, Czech Republic, 1.5km
- Event 6: February 1, 2026 – Jizerská50 – Bedřichov, Czech Republic, 50km
- Event 7: March 1, 2026 – Vasaloppet – Sälen-Mora, Sweden, 90km
- Event 8: March 7, 2026 – Orsa Grönklitt 50k ITT Women – Grönklitt, Sweden, 50km
- Event 9: March 8, 2026 – Orsa Grönklitt 50k ITT Men – Grönklitt, Sweden, 50km
- Event 10: March 14, 2026 – Birkebeinerrennet – Rena-Lillehammer, Norway, 54km
- Event 11: March 21, 2026 – Marcialonga Bodø – Bodø, Norway, 50km
- Event 12: March 28, 2026 – Reistadløpet – Setermoen-Bardufoss, Norway, 35km
- Event 13: March 29, 2026 – Grand Finale Summit 2 Senja – Bardufoss-Finnsnes, Norway, 60km
For more updates and detailed information about the Ski Classics Pro Tour, make sure to visit skiclassics.com.
Author: Leandro Lutz
