For many winter sports enthusiast Switzerland is the Alps—Switzerland is skiing in Europe, and simply no alternative compares. The diversity of this landlocked, mountainous country is the essence of Switzerland and gives the country its unique identity. Still, it is best known for its winter sports and financial institutions, fine cheeses and chocolate, watch making industry, and for its scenery and an excellent network of public transport.

Davos is the largest ski resort in Switzerland. The year-round population is 13,000 and the town can fill up with an additional 23,000 ski tourists. Davos was one of the first ski resorts to be created and is still one of the world’s best. In the south-east corner of Switzerland, Davos sits dwarfed by mountains on both sides of the valley (Davos means “behind” or “beyond” in the Romansh language). Five separate ski areas have been developed, ensuring diversity and skiing for every skier. Instead of wooden chalets, for the most part, square concrete hotels line the streets which perhaps does not provide the great image of Switzerland but Davos still maintains a sense of comfort.

In the evening you can see a variety of people from teenagers in town for the great snow to elderly couples enjoying a walk in the crisp, clear mountain air and the restorative powers of an Alpine vacation. Nightlife is adequate, if restrained.

The five ski areas of Davos are the Parsenn, the Schatzalp/Strela, Jakobshorn, Rinerhorn and Pischa. The Parsenn is the best known area, almost the size of Manhattan and the major reason why Davos has become a premier European resort. The Parsennbahn, a cable railway, leaves every 15 to 20 minutes in ski season. It peaks at the Weissfluhjoch, the upper lift central of the Parsenn. Here the runs are wide open and offer beginners and intermediates a paradise for cruising. Schatzalp/Strela area, just above Davos Platz, is the least challenging in the valley. It has finally been graced with a new chair lift replacing the ancient gondola. It is perfect for those searching for a day of cruising.

Jakobshorn is the second largest area and is on the opposite side of the valley from the Parsenn. Here the trails have great pitch consistency and make use of the entire vertical. It’s called “The Fun Mountain,” and is ideal for snowboarding. The next area is the Rinerhorn area at Glaris, just up the valley from the main town, with 13 runs and several good advanced intermediate descents. Pischa area, reached by a short bus ride from Davos, offers uncrowded runs down a 2,230-foot vertical. There isn’t a lot for an expert here. Davos has great cross country skiing—the second largest cross country ski area in Switzerland, with 75 km. of groomed trails.

Davos earns an A-plus when it comes to beginners and intermediates. This is perhaps the ideal terrain for learning to ski and for perfecting your technique. This resort has become one of the top snowboard destinations in the world. Jakobshorn is the centre for snowboard action with plenty of other action in each of the areas. There are half pipes (one for night boarding) at the Jakobshorn as well as a boarder cross park.

In Switzerland, fondue and raclette are more than just a meal. They are part adventure and part ritual. They are quick meals that can be enjoyed by large groups of singing tourists or intimately by candlelight after a hard day skiing.

Here at Pure Vacations we are featuring a number of well chosen resort that cater for all standards and should make your winter sports vacation something special. Switzerland offers the best winter sports experience in Europe second to none and it offers culture and style to go with it!