Ski resorts
Arosa: skiing at the end of the valley and where to stay
A train ride over viaducts and through tunnels, a village at the end of the valley and a ski area stretching across the mountain to Lenzerheide. This is Arosa, and the hotels where Swiss calm meets luxury.
The journey to Arosa is part of the experience. The train from Chur climbs slowly up the valley, over tall viaducts and through tunnels, as the landscape grows whiter with every kilometre. When you finally arrive, you stand in a village at the end of the valley, surrounded by mountains and with a calm that is hard to find elsewhere.
Arosa lies in Graubünden, and its ski area is linked with Lenzerheide on the other side of the mountain. That creates a large and varied ski area, while the village keeps its quiet, exclusive atmosphere.
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A village at the end of the valley
Because Arosa lies at the end of the valley, there is no through traffic. The village is quiet, with hotels and chalets scattered across the hillside and a small lake that freezes in winter. Many come here to escape the bustle of bigger resorts.
Arosa Lenzerheide
Since a new cable car linked Arosa and Lenzerheide, the ski area has become one of the largest in Graubünden. You can ski from Arosa over the mountain to Lenzerheide and back in a single day, with runs for every level and wide views across the mountains.
The slopes of Arosa
The pistes around Arosa are wide and sunny, and the Weisshorn offers long descents with views over the valley. The ski area is known for good grooming and a relaxed mood on the slopes.
A day in Arosa
The morning starts with breakfast and mountain views, before you ride up towards the Weisshorn. The morning can be spent on the wide pistes, and after lunch you can take the cable car across to Lenzerheide.
In the afternoon a spa, a walk around the frozen lake and a quiet dinner of Swiss food await.
When is the best time to visit Arosa?
The season usually runs from December to April. January and February often bring good conditions, and March offers long, sunny days. Christmas week and half term are popular, so book early.
Skiing with children in Arosa
Arosa is a calm and safe place for families. There are ski schools, family-friendly runs and activities off the slopes such as sledging and winter walks. The small village is easy to get around.
Food and evenings in Arosa
Evenings in Arosa are calm and atmospheric. Hotels often have excellent restaurants and spas, and in the village you will find Swiss classics such as fondue and capuns, a traditional dish from Graubünden. After dinner you can walk beneath the stars, where the only sound is the snow.
The train from Chur
The railway between Chur and Arosa is one of the most beautiful lines in Switzerland. It crosses impressive viaducts and winds through forest and mountains, making a lovely start and end to your ski holiday.
Getting to Arosa
The nearest major airport is Zürich. From there, take the train to Chur and on along the Arosa line up to Arosa. The whole journey can be made by train.
Where to stay in Arosa
Arosa has some of the best-known luxury hotels in Graubünden. Here are three we would happily choose.
Tschuggen Grand Hotel: spa and ski-in/ski-out
A luxury hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, a spa and a free ski bus.
Book your stay: See rooms at Tschuggen Grand Hotel
Arosa Kulm Hotel & Alpin Spa: by the slopes
A luxury hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, a spa and ski storage.
Book your stay: See rooms at Arosa Kulm Hotel & Alpin Spa
Valsana Hotel Arosa: modern luxury
A luxury hotel with a spa, close to the Arosa Lenzerheide ski area.
Book your stay: See rooms at Valsana Hotel Arosa
Want to compare? See all our ski resorts or read about skiing in St. Moritz.
Frequently asked questions about skiing in Arosa
Where should I stay in Arosa?
Tschuggen Grand Hotel and Arosa Kulm Hotel both offer ski-in/ski-out access and a spa, while Valsana Hotel Arosa is a modern luxury hotel with a spa near the ski area.
Is Arosa linked to Lenzerheide?
Yes, Arosa and Lenzerheide are linked by a cable car and together form the Arosa Lenzerheide ski area.
Is Arosa good for families?
Yes, Arosa is calm and safe, with ski schools, family-friendly runs and activities off the slopes.
How do you get to Arosa?
Fly to Zürich and take the train to Chur. From there the Arosa line runs up to Arosa.