Lofty Peaks
There are extremely few elves in the Midrealm, and though there are a few more in the Northrealm, most people have never seen one as they almost exclusively move in the higher echelons of society. The elves that do not either disguise themselves as humans or (in the few cases they can do magic) magically alter their appearance. Elves are a little taller than humans and with seemingly a frail shape, though actually far more flexible and dexterious than they seem. They love all things posh including fine dining and philosophical debates, and "frequently" visits human realms. Frequently means several times per century...
Cold and alluring, but sometimes just seen as cold, elves do have good hearts for the most part, but humans rarely get an insight into this unless they befriend one. They live in the northern tops of the Lofty Peaks in castles that look like icicles from afar. Made in pure marble, they are near to indisdinguishable from the rest of the surrounding nature. They enjoy 6 months a year of reliable snow and ice, and a brief but very enjoyable summer. It is known for some elves to meditate through an entire winter.
For humans, most don't like the idea of elves much. They are considered extremely snobby (wha's wrong wih' ma beer?!) and uncaring (as they have seen many important human conflicts and seemingly ignored them). Most elves you'd meet if so lucky will be elf nobles travelling for either busieness or for cultural exchange. Though it IS possible that the rowdiest person in a bar really was an elf enjoying his guilty pleasure of hanging out with the lower echelons of humanity...
Northrealmers have a slightly more positive view of elves, but regardless of what any commoner or noble would want to be friends with one or have one as a contact because of the prestige. Though some would say that is not true, it's true in 99% of the cases.