Arosa

Arosa sits high in the Plessur Alps, at the head of a long valley above Chur, and it has been a favourite place for people seeking the classic Swiss mountain experience since the late 19th century. Its history as a health and holiday resort goes back to the time when visitors were drawn by pure air, a sunny climate and scenic beauty, and over time Arosa has become a year-round resort with a mix of tradition, innovation and natural beauty.

History and Heritage Arosa’s growth as a resort began in the 1870s with the opening of its first hotels, and the Arosa Railway, built in 1914, made the remote valley accessible to visitors from across Europe. Sanatoria for the treatment of lung disease once lined the slopes, and their large buildings still shape the village’s outline. The architecture is a mix of classic alpine chalets and elegant Belle Époque hotels. The reputation for wellness remains, thanks to clean mountain air, mineral springs and modern spa facilities. Upland farmers of Walser origin settled the nearby Sapün valley, and their village shows the old way of life.

Main Attractions Arosa’s attractions are its landscape and its outdoor life. In winter the Arosa Lenzerheide ski area offers more than 225 kilometres of pistes and modern lifts, with reliable snow from December to April. The Weisshorn cable car reaches panoramic viewpoints, mountain restaurants and thrilling runs, and an ice rink, a curling hall and winter hiking trails add variety.

Summer is just as lively. The Squirrel Trail is a family favourite, a forest path where children can feed friendly squirrels, and the Arosa Bear Sanctuary, a pioneering project for rescued bears, has observation platforms and educational displays. Hiking and mountain biking trails lead to alpine lakes, wildflower meadows and high peaks, and the Obersee and Untersee are used for swimming, boating and picnics. The events calendar includes the Arosa Humorfestival, classic car rallies and concerts, and the golf course, tennis courts and wellness centres give more ways to unwind.

Activities Arosa is a good place for people who like to be outside. In winter, besides skiing and snowboarding, visitors can go snowshoeing, tobogganing and paragliding. Summer brings hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and stand-up paddleboarding, with well-marked trails for all levels, from gentle valley walks to demanding ascents. Families will enjoy adventure playgrounds, animal parks and nature trails with interactive stops. The lakes invite a swim on warm days, and evenings often end on a terrace with a view of the first stars over the Weisshorn.

Getting There Arosa is reached by train from Chur on the scenic Arosa Railway, which winds through forests, tunnels and over high viaducts. The trip from Zurich takes about two and a half hours with a change at Chur. By car, a winding mountain road reaches the village, with parking available. Most sights are within walking distance or reached by local buses and lifts. The ride itself, about an hour from Chur, is one of the great short railway journeys of the Alps.

Seasonal Advice June to September suits hiking, biking and lake days, and December to April is the winter-sports season. Summer offers mild temperatures, alpine flowers and a full events programme, and winter brings reliable snow and festive markets. Spring and autumn are quieter, with soft colours and fewer visitors. In every season Arosa’s mix of adventure, relaxation and Swiss hospitality makes for an easy and memorable stay.