Davos
Switzerland

Davos

Alpine sophistication at the world’s crossroads

Overview

About Davos

Davos gleams as a high-altitude sanctuary where pristine Alpine grandeur converges with global influence. Cradled in the Landwasser Valley at 1,560 metres, this elegant resort town is synonymous with the World Economic Forum, yet its soul remains deeply rooted in mountain tradition. Snow-draped peaks frame a pedestrianised promenade lined with Belle Époque hotels, cutting-edge clinics, and sun-drenched terraces. Whether carving first tracks on the Parsenn slopes, hiking the crystalline lakes of the Dischma Valley, or savouring a Michelin-starred fondue beside a roaring fire, Davos delivers a rare synthesis of cosmopolitan flair and untamed nature.

What to see & do

Top attractions

01St. Moritz7.0The original winter playground of the global elite, St…FreeKid-friendlyHistoricalCulturalNatureActiveArtisticScenicUniqueFreeKid-friendly+7

The original winter playground of the global elite, St. Moritz is a masterclass in Alpine luxury and timeless glamour. Nestled in the sun-drenched Engadin Valley, this resort town has been synonymous with high society since the 19th century, hosting two Winter Olympics and inventing the concept of winter tourism. Beyond its chic boutiques and world-class skiing, St. Moritz offers a sophisticated cultural scene, from the Segantini Museum to the annual White Turf horse races on the frozen lake. It is a place where crisp mountain air meets unparalleled refinement, and the backdrop of snow-capped peaks provides a setting of breathtaking permanence.

Practical information
Tips: St. Moritz is a year-round destination; summer offers exceptional hiking and sailing on Lake St. Moritz. The town is easily accessible via the scenic Bernina Express railway. For a taste of local life, visit the weekly market and try traditional Engadin specialties like Bündner Nusstorte.
02Swiss National Park7.0Switzerland’s only national park is a pristine wilderness where nature operates entirely on its own terms—no picking flowers, no straying from…FreeKid-friendlyHistoricalNatureActiveScenicUniqueFreeKid-friendly+5

Switzerland’s only national park is a pristine wilderness where nature operates entirely on its own terms—no picking flowers, no straying from marked trails, no camping. Established in 1914, this 170‑square‑kilometer sanctuary in the Engadin Valley is a living laboratory of alpine ecology, home to ibex, marmots, golden eagles, and over 1,500 plant species. The landscape shifts dramatically with elevation: from larch and pine forests to high alpine meadows and jagged limestone peaks. Hiking trails range from gentle valley walks to demanding high‑altitude routes, all meticulously marked and maintained. The park’s strict conservation rules create an atmosphere of profound stillness; you’ll hear nothing but wind, water, and the occasional marmot whistle. This is not a curated nature experience—it’s an immersion in untamed alpine wilderness that feels increasingly rare in modern Europe.

Practical information
Tips: The park is open year‑round, but trails are best from June to October when snow has melted. Start at the visitor center in Zernez for maps, trail conditions, and wildlife spotting tips. Bring sturdy hiking boots, layers for changing mountain weather, and plenty of water—there are no facilities inside the park. Stick strictly to marked trails; fines are enforced for violations. The Chamanna Cluozza mountain hut offers basic overnight accommodation but must be reserved well in advance. For the best wildlife sightings, hike at dawn or dusk when animals are most active. The Ofenpass trail is a classic moderate route with stunning views and good chances of spotting ibex.

Logistics

Practical info

Getting there & around

Davos boasts an efficient, fare-free local bus network (with a guest card) connecting every district, plus the Rhaetian Railway’s scenic Davos Platz and Davos Dorf stations linking to the Glacier Express. The compact centre is eminently walkable; e-bikes and e-scooters are widely available for valley exploration.

Food & drink

Culinary culture here marries hearty Grisons specialties — capuns, pizokel, and air-dried Bündnerfleisch — with avant-garde Alpine cuisine. Gourmet temples like the two-starred Talent and the historic Kirchner Museum’s restaurant elevate local produce, while cosy mountain huts serve molten raclette and nutty Veltliner wines on sun-soaked decks.

Stay aware

Safety considerations

Davos is exceptionally safe, with negligible crime. Standard alpine precautions apply: respect mountain weather forecasts, carry layers, and register high-altitude hikes. Avalanche risk in winter is managed by professional services; always heed marked piste boundaries and warning flags.

Further reading

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