When I was living in Davos I had a captive audience of colleagues who also were hmm...stuck up a mountain without many friends. In a way it was like being in college again. Many of the people that worked there were fairly young. I had three groups of friends...the 20+ crowd, +45 group, and my immediate office mates.

The best thing I found to bring people close to you is food. My Swiss office mates were delighted to have American baked goods, and the 20+ crowd were happy to come over to my flat for American style pancakes or french toast and I would teach them how to bake something. They learned something, and I got the company I wanted...and everyone had yummy food to eat. The 45+ group is fun for going out to dinner, or watching a movie. I can have interesting conversations with them but I always feel as if I am one of their kids.

Anyway...food makes people have an easier time getting to know and like you--at least that is what I have experienced. This worked for me in Davos...a remote area much like what you are describing.

Only time will tell if the same thing will work here in Zürich...