Arosa

Nestled in the Schanfigg valley at 1,775 metres, Arosa is a year-round Alpine playground that feels both exclusive and unpretentious. Once a quiet mountain village, it has evolved into a sophisticated resort where pristine nature, Swiss tradition, and modern design converge. The air is crisp, the panorama of the surrounding peaks is jaw-dropping, and the pace of life slows to a healthy Alpine hum. Whether you’re here for the ski slopes in winter or the hiking trails in summer, Arosa delivers an authentic Swiss mountain experience without the over-the-top glitz of some larger resorts.

Highlights & What to See

• Arosa Weisshorn – Take the cable car up to this 2,653-metre summit for a 360-degree view of the Grisons Alps. In summer, the hiking trails from here are among the best in the region.
• Obersee & Untersee – Two small, crystal-clear lakes right in the village. In winter they freeze over and become natural ice rinks; in summer they’re perfect for a picnic or a gentle paddle.
• Hörnli Trail – A classic family-friendly hike that winds through larch forests and across flower-dotted meadows, with views of the surrounding peaks that change with every bend.
• Arosa Bärenland – A sanctuary for rescued brown bears, offering a rare and moving chance to observe these magnificent animals in a natural enclosure. It’s a highlight for animal lovers and families.
• Skiing & Snowboarding – Arosa is linked with Lenzerheide to form one of Switzerland’s largest ski areas, with 225 km of slopes. The terrain suits beginners to experts, and the lift system is modern and efficient.
• Eichhörnliweg (Squirrel Trail) – A whimsical walk designed for kids, with squirrel-themed stations and play areas scattered along a gentle forest path.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give Arosa at least two full days to appreciate its dual personality. If you’re skiing, three days let you explore the full Arosa-Lenzerheide ski area without rushing. In summer, two days are enough for a summit hike, a lake circuit, and a visit to the bear sanctuary. Many visitors use Arosa as a relaxing bookend to a longer Swiss road trip – a day to arrive and unwind, a day to explore, and a morning to depart. The village is compact, so you won’t waste time on transport.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Lenzerheide – Just over the pass, this resort is part of the same ski area and offers excellent mountain biking and hiking in summer.
• Chur – Switzerland’s oldest town, only 30 minutes away by train or car. Explore its medieval Old Town, the Rätisches Museum, and the starting point of the famous Glacier Express.
• Davos – About an hour’s drive, this larger resort town offers world-class skiing, the Kirchner Museum, and the scenic Rinerhorn.
• St. Moritz – A scenic 90-minute drive through the Albula Pass brings you to the glitzy Engadin valley, with its legendary lakes, luxury hotels, and the Bernina Express.
• Klosters – A charming car-free village with a relaxed atmosphere, great for hiking and skiing, and a favourite of the British royal family.

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