Step into a summer chess retreat like no other at the SAN BERNARDINO Over 50 OPEN, taking place from July 2 to July 6, 2025, in the scenic Alpine village of Mesocco, Switzerland. Hosted at the relaxing Hotel Lido San Bernardino, this classical tournament welcomes senior chess players aged 50 and above to engage in thoughtful strategy, camaraderie, and mountain air. With a rejuvenating spa atmosphere, competitive spirit, and a balanced five-day format, this event promises not just chess—but a well-deserved experience of leisure and focus.

📋 EVENT DETAILS

⏱️ TIME CONTROL

This senior open tournament uses a FIDE-rated classical format that ensures deep and thoughtful games. Each participant receives 90 minutes for the entire game, with an additional 30-second increment per move starting from move one. This pace is perfect for seasoned players who appreciate a calm and calculated battle over the board, without the rush of faster time controls.

📅 TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

Players may request a half-point bye in one of the first three rounds.

💰 PRIZE FUND

The total prize pool is CHF 1,650 (approx. €1,700), distributed based on participation (minimum 30 players) or pro rata.

General Prizes

Rating Category Prizes

All prizes are awarded in CHF and are exempt from tax. Tie-break criteria: Buchholz system.

📝 REGISTRATION

Eligibility: Open to all players aged 50 or older as of July 2, 2025.

Entry Fees:

• General Participants: CHF 110
• IMs and GMs: CHF 90

Registration Method: Participants should register in advance by contacting the organizer directly. Payment is made on-site at the check-in desk prior to Round 1.

Required Information:

• Full name
• FIDE ID and federation
• Rating
• Date of birth
• Contact details

We recommend early confirmation due to the limited capacity of the playing venue and hotel.

🧳 TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION

Venue Address:
Hotel Lido San Bernardino
Strada del Lido 2, CH-6565 San Bernardino, Mesocco, Switzerland

How to Reach San Bernardino:

• By Car: Easily accessible via the A13 highway (San Bernardino Tunnel).
• By Train: The nearest major train stations are Bellinzona and Thusis, with bus connections to San Bernardino.
• By Air: The closest international airports are Zurich (ZRH) and Milan Malpensa (MXP), followed by a train and bus ride.

Hotel Details:

Participants will stay at the tournament venue, Hotel Lido, offering rooms and studios with breakfast or half-board options. Check-in begins at 15:00 on July 2, and check-out is required by 11:00 on July 6. Room prices and booking details are available on the hotel’s website or directly via reservation inquiries.

Nearby attractions include wellness centers, hiking trails, a lake, and breathtaking mountain landscapes—perfect for relaxing between rounds.

🏢 ORGANIZER

The SAN BERNARDINO Chess Group hosts this event with support from local chess promoters and Swiss tournament officials. Dedicated to providing quality chess events for the senior community, the group focuses on professionalism, comfort, and a passion for chess in beautiful surroundings.

Contact Details:

• Venue Address: Hotel Lido San Bernardino, Strada del Lido 2, CH-6565 Mesocco, Switzerland

🎯 WHY YOU SHOULD PARTICIPATE

The SAN BERNARDINO Over 50 OPEN is more than just a tournament—it’s a rejuvenating retreat designed for chess lovers over 50. Picture yourself making precise moves while enjoying the crisp Alpine air, scenic views, wellness offerings, and like-minded company. Whether you aim for glory, relaxation, or both, this 5-day classical chess experience provides the perfect balance between intellectual challenge and leisure. Join us this July and make your next move in the Swiss mountains!