Davos

Davos, a high-altitude resort town in the Swiss Alps, is best known for hosting the World Economic Forum, but its real draw for travellers is the stunning alpine scenery and year-round outdoor adventures. Nestled in the Landwasser Valley, Davos offers a perfect blend of Swiss tradition and modern alpine luxury, with a lively après-ski scene and serene hiking trails that wind through pine forests and past crystal-clear lakes.

Highlights & What to See

• Parsenn Ski Area – One of Switzerland's largest ski regions, with over 300 km of slopes for all levels, plus legendary off-piste routes like the Parsenn Derby run.
• Schatzalp – A historic Art Nouveau hotel and botanical garden accessible by funicular, offering panoramic views and a unique alpine garden with 5,000 plant species.
• Lake Davos (Davosersee) – A serene lake perfect for summer swimming, paddleboarding, or winter ice skating and curling.
• Kirchner Museum Davos – Houses the world's largest collection of works by Expressionist painter Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, who lived here.
• Gotschnagrat – A cable car ride to a 2,280-metre peak with spectacular views of the Bernina Range and a popular starting point for hikes like the Panoramaweg.
• Rinerhorn – A family-friendly mountain with a summer toboggan run, hiking trails, and a charming mountain restaurant.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors should plan at least 3 to 4 days to experience Davos fully. Two days for skiing or hiking (one on Parsenn, one on Schatzalp or Rinerhorn), a day to explore the town and museums, and a day for a scenic excursion to nearby lakes or peaks. In winter, add an extra day for snowshoeing or a sleigh ride. Davos is also a great base for a week-long alpine holiday, especially if you enjoy both skiing and cultural activities.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Klosters – A charming car-free village just 10 minutes away, famous for its celebrity appeal and excellent skiing.
• St. Moritz – A glamorous resort town 1.5 hours south via the scenic Bernina Express train route.
• Swiss National Park – Switzerland's only national park, about 1 hour north, with pristine wilderness and wildlife viewing.
• Flims & Laax – A premier mountain biking and skiing area 1.5 hours west, home to the famous Caumasee lake.
• Chur – Switzerland's oldest city, 1 hour north, with a well-preserved old town and transport hub.

Please check official sources for current details.