Davos: A cosmopolitan city
At the time when Thomas Mann was busily writing his Magic Mountain, Davos was still an introspective and romantic mountain village, though it enjoyed world renown even back then. For over 150 years, Davos has been recognized as a outdoor resort area, and is known throughout the world for the healing qualities of its climate. Today, Davos (population of 13,000 inhabitants) is not only the highest elevation city in Europe, but also a winter and summer sports paradise, popular convention site and for several years the venue of the World Economic Forum – and thus, for a few days, one of the most important towns on the globe.
Residents and guests relish the urban conveniences of the charming Alpine metropolis - the thriving lifestyle of the interwoven hotels, international shops, innumerable restaurants and educational institutions and, last but not least, the multifaceted and internationally recognized array of cultural and athletic events and offerings. All of this is embedded in the breath-taking nature and mountain landscape of the Swiss Alps.
And not the least: Despite global warming, at 1,500 meters above sea level Davos always has snow - ideal for cross-country or downhill skiing and snowboarding.