The town of Arosa is one of Switzerland's beautiful resorts located at an altitude of 1800m above sea level, at the end of the Schanfigg valley.
A great ski destination that also comes alive in the summer is the town of Arosa – a popular Swiss tourist destination . This small village has plenty of winter activities but if you decide to visit outside of the ski season, you will still find beauty in the rolling hills, lush greenery and plenty of opportunities to relax in one of the many alpine spas.
The enchanting town of Arosa in Switzerland
Surrounded by majestic mountain scenery, this ski resort village sits 6,000 feet above sea level in Grisons, Switzerland’s easternmost canton. Nestled at the bottom of the deep and wide Schanfigg Valley, you’ll find some of the cleanest air on the planet. Founded 130 years ago as a health resort, this quaint village has evolved into a modern resort paradise that offers year-round activities with little to no impact on the environment.
Arosa, nestled among the breathtaking Swiss Alps. Photo: @packedagain
That’s part of the reason why Arosa has been awarded the “Alpine Pearl” label in recognition of its efforts to protect the environment and the climate. You’ll also discover that sustainable electricity is the law of the land in Arosa. Arosa Energie’s regional hydroelectric plants provide Arosa and the Schanfigg Valley with renewable, CO2-neutral hydroelectric power. In addition, Switzerland is one of the world’s most progressive and committed countries in climate action, having been named one of the five fastest to achieve the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. With stunning landscapes dominating every corner of the country, you’ll understand the desire to protect it.
Skiing in Arosa. Photo: @cri.zz.tina
Arosa offers a chilly feel with its majestic white mountains. The surrounding mountains protect the area from strong winds and allow visitors and locals to enjoy the warmth of the sun. Traffic levels in the surrounding area are also very low, ensuring fresh air, making it one of the best health resorts in the Alps.
The town of Arosa is a popular tourist destination with picturesque landscapes. Photo: @leotwinkes
You will be impressed by this stunning natural landscape in both summer and winter. This Swiss winter destination boasts over 200km of hiking, walking and mountain biking trails that will eventually take you from one crystal clear lake to another. The Arosa cycling area is versatile, catering to all riding styles, from easy to extreme, from easy to difficult. Those who like to get close to nature can follow the squirrel trail and enjoy spending time with these cute creatures. They may seem shy at first but will adapt and climb onto the shoulders of hikers.
To provide the best quality holiday for young guests, Arosa offers a ski school, a winter club for children and an indoor playground.
The town boasts an extensive network of trails. Photo: @mischaherz1972
The Arosa ski resort welcomes winter sports enthusiasts, who can find 225km of slopes with guaranteed snow. Thanks to a well-managed transport system, the area is the largest connected ski area, offering the opportunity to reach Lenzerheide in just three minutes by cable car. If you don’t have your own ski equipment, there’s no need to worry as you can easily rent the best quality equipment there.
Other winter sports, such as ice hockey, outdoor skating, figure skating, curling and ice dancing, are held in the town of Arosa , giving you the chance to skate on smooth surfaces to brush up on your skating skills.
Arosa town with charming alpine backdrop. Photo: @ciny.sch_Activities to experience in Arosa town
1. Skiing in Arosa – Lenzerheide
With some of the best snow conditions in Switzerland, Arosa is able to offer top 5 star skiing in a snow-guaranteed environment. With some of the best snow conditions in Switzerland, Arosa is able to offer top 5 star skiing in a snow-guaranteed environment. The Arosa ski area is connected to the Lenzerheide ski resort and both areas offer 225 km of groomed pistes up to an altitude of 2865 m, making it Graubünden's largest connected ski area.
Arosa Ski Resort. Photo: @mischaherz1972
The highest point on the Arosa side is the beautiful Weisshorn at 2653m, which has a great restaurant. The stunning Urden Gondola cable car connects the two ski areas. At the top of the mountain there is a restaurant with stunning panoramic views of the numerous peaks.
Guaranteed snow on dramatic peaks, blue-green ski days on endless trails and romantic snow-covered trees are what visitors to Arosa look forward to every winter.
2. Visit Weisshorn
Weisshorn is one of the top attractions in the town of Arosa, Switzerland, attracting tourists from all over the world. It is a majestic mountain located in the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views and a wealth of outdoor activities.
At 2,653 metres, the Weisshorn offers hikers and nature enthusiasts a paradise to explore. Well-marked hiking trails provide access to pristine alpine meadows, crystal-clear mountain lakes and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Weisshorn. Photo: @alpenblickarosa
For adventure enthusiasts, Weisshorn also boasts a wide range of activities such as mountain biking trails, paragliding and rock climbing. The exhilarating experiences combined with the stunning scenery create unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages.
One of the highlights of the Weisshorn is the cable car to the top of the Weisshorn, which takes visitors on an exhilarating ride to the top. The cable car offers unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape and access to the mountaintop restaurant, where visitors can enjoy delicious Swiss cuisine while taking in the picturesque scenery.
During the winter months, the Weisshorn transforms into a winter wonderland with world-class skiing and snowboarding slopes. The Arosa Lenzerheide ski resort offers a wide range of slopes suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers, ensuring an unforgettable winter sports experience. Whether you are looking for adventure, natural beauty or simply a peaceful retreat, the Weisshorn in Arosa has it all.
3. Enjoy the panoramic view at Arosa Weisshorn Gipfel
One of the highest mountain restaurants in the area, the Weisshorn Restaurant offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views. The stunning Weisshorn Gipfel Restaurant has large panoramic windows so you won’t miss out on the view even on cold days.
Arosa Weisshorn Gipfel Restaurant. Photo: @hofmaran
If you’re skiing, head to the mid-station where the Weisshorn Goldola starts. On foot, you’ll reach the summit via the massive Weisshorn Gondola cable car, which departs from the nearby village of Obersee in two stages. The breathtaking ride from 1,739m to 2,653m is an adventure in its own right.
4. Hiking in Arosa
A law passed by the Swiss government 125 years ago ensures that nearly a third of the country’s land surface is reserved as forests and woodland. That’s good news for the summer months, when families, friends and couples explore the country’s breathtaking peaks, fragrant Alpine meadows and crystal-clear mountain lakes. Sports enthusiasts will get their money’s worth with the many hiking trails, cycling routes, golf courses and tennis courts.
Hiking in Arosa. Photo: @janeric_su
Arosa alone boasts over 200km of hiking and walking trails including the “Arosa Ten Lakes Trail”, a 15km trek that leads from one crystal clear alpine lake to the next. Then there’s the Schanfigg loop from Chur to Arosa and back, with plenty of cosy traditional mountain cabins, well-cultivated lands and alpine pastures.
In winter, the trails are groomed and snowshoes are not required. With a good pair of winter hiking boots, you can enjoy over 60km of winter hiking trails and paths. Arosa’s winter trails lead to mountain huts, the perfect place to plan an alpine lunch on a sunny terrace before heading back to Arosa town through snow-covered forests.
5. Be brave and take an ice bath in Arosa
Now, here's something we didn't do - ice baths. If this is something you're into, Arosa has the stunning official outdoor ice bath Badi.
The ice bath is actually free but remember that there are no guards. If you have never done it before, it is not recommended to try it alone, but you can book a bath with an instructor, so they will explain all the dangers and prepare you for this unique experience.
Ice bath in Arosa. Photo: @Eisbadi Arosa
6. Watch squirrels and birds on the Eichhörnchenweg
The Squirrel Trail is definitely the most popular themed trail in Arosa and is enjoyed by both kids and adults.
Walking along the forest trail, you will soon see a fluffy tail behind the trees and before you know it, there it is. A curious and hungry squirrel right in front of you. Remember to bring some nuts, place them in the palm of your hand and be patient. Soon these adorable furry creatures will come to take the nuts from your hand.
The short but beautiful forest trail starts in Arosa at Tomeli Street with a large playground waiting for kids at the end of the trail, not far from the Maran bus stop. The trail is just 1.7km long with a 102m up/down gradient depending on which side you start from.
Squirrel watching at Eichhörnchenweg. Photo: @Kinder-GR.ch
7. To Hörnli Mountain
Hörnli Mountain, located in the Swiss town of Arosa, is one of the top attractions in the region. With its towering peaks and breathtaking views, the mountain offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
At an impressive 2,489 metres, the Hörnli is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The mountain boasts a well-maintained network of trails that cater to a variety of difficulty levels. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a casual hiker, there is a trail for everyone. The trails offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, lakes and glaciers, providing unmissable opportunities for memorable photos.
Hörnli Mountain. Photo: @patsgallery
At the top of the Hörnli mountain, guests can enjoy a meal at the cozy mountaintop restaurant, which serves traditional Swiss cuisine. The restaurant's panoramic terrace offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Overall, the Hörnli mountain in Arosa promises an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a myriad of activities throughout the year. From hiking and mountain biking in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter, the mountain is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty in Switzerland.
8. Have fun at Untersee Lake
Located in the beautiful town of Arosa , Untersee Lake is a hidden gem that visitors should not miss. Surrounded by the stunning Swiss Alps, this picturesque lake offers a tranquil and idyllic setting for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
View of Untersee Lake. Photo: @snnow165
Lake Untersee, also known as Lower Lake, is famous for its crystal clear waters that reflect the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape. The lake stretches for over 1.5 km, providing ample space for a variety of recreational activities. Whether you are looking for a peaceful hike, a refreshing swim or a relaxing picnic by the lakeside, Lake Untersee has plenty to offer visitors.
One of the main attractions at Lake Untersee is the beautiful hiking trails that wind around the lake. These well-marked trails cater to all levels of hikers, from beginners to experienced hikers. As you explore the trails, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Alps and the lush forests that line the lakeshore.
Lake Untersee has hiking trails around the lake. Photo: @snnow165For those looking for adventure on the water, Lake Untersee offers swimming and boating opportunities. The crystal clear waters of the lake invite visitors to take a refreshing dip in the warmer months. You can also rent rowboats or paddle boats from local vendors to explore the lake at your own pace. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning beauty around you.
9. Take a photo at Langwies Viaduct
Located in the town of Arosa , Switzerland, the Langwies Viaduct is one of the top attractions in the area. This impressive railway bridge was built in 1914 and has since become an iconic landmark of Arosa's charming landscape.
Langwies Viaduct. Photo: @Snow Forecast
At over 284 metres long and 62 metres high, the Langwies Viaduct offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and lush alpine landscape. The bridge is set in a stunning natural setting, making it an ideal location for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
10. Visit St. Peter's Church
St. Peter’s Church is one of the top attractions in the Swiss town of Arosa . This stunning church is located in the heart of the town and offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the area. Built in the late 1800s, St. Peter’s Church showcases stunning architecture, with an impressive bell tower and exquisite stained glass windows. Visitors enjoy a peaceful atmosphere as they explore the church’s interior, which is decorated with elegant religious artwork and ornate furnishings. The church also hosts regular services, offering an opportunity for spiritual contemplation. St. Peter’s Church is not only a place of worship, but also a must-see for those who want to immerse themselves in local heritage and take in the picturesque views of Arosa.
Visit St. Peter's Church. Photo: @in Arosa Lenzerheide
0 Comments