Trip Ideas: Switzerland, Davos Klosters
It’s maybe not as steep and scary as some other legendary spots in the Alps, but it’s an expansive playground with the opportunity to head off-piste for massive lines.
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WARUM: Davos is the Vail of Europe. It’s maybe not as steep and scary as some other legendary spots in the Alps, but it’s an expansive playground with the opportunity to head off-piste for massive lines. The complex of areas over seven mountains includes at least 60 lifts and countless tours. Again, hire a guide.
WAS: The most interesting is Pischa, the freeride mountain, where you, Mr. American, with your big fat powder boards, belong. There are plenty of fun runs in-area, but the real thrill is dropping off the back side into endless untracked. Also hit the trees at Rinerhorn on a blower day. And Davos is the headquarters of the Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research (SLF)—book a tour on a Friday, and read the SLF’s twice-daily bulletins if you intend to head off-piste.
WO: If you want to get in trouble, play pool and drink absinthe at the Walhalla Bar. Somehow the barkeep manages to hang with the crowd and make it up first thing every morning for tree runs.
KEY PHRASE: Iigschneit. Snowed in. Also, the Swiss here say merci rather than danke.
