Skiing and snowboarding in Arosa is spacious and unhurried. Slopes here spread across wide, sun-catching bowls above the treeline, with long descents dropping through larch forests back towards the village. There's a natural rhythm to the mountain, with plenty of room to carve, few bottlenecks at the lifts, and terrain that rewards exploration rather than racing from run to run.

The Arosa side of the ski area centres around Weisshorn (2,653m) and Hörnli (2,511m) peaks, while the link to Lenzerheide via the Urdenbahn opens up the broader ski area. Each sector has a different feel. Weisshorn is more open and exposed, Hörnli is slightly more sheltered, and the Lenzerheide connection adds variety and mileage for those who want to cover ground.

Skiing for beginners in Arosa

Arosa is an encouraging place to learn. The Tschuggen nursery area sits right by the village, with gentle, wide slopes and a moving carpet lift that make your first turns feel manageable. Once you've found your feet, progressing to easy blue runs on the Hörnli side feels smooth and natural. Here, the gradient is forgiving and the runs are wide enough that you won't feel hemmed in by faster skiers.

A quiet atmosphere helps, too. Arosa doesn't get the crowds of bigger Swiss resorts, so beginners get more space to practise and build confidence without feeling rushed. The runs back to the village are straightforward, so getting home at the end of the day is part of the fun rather than a white-knuckle challenge.

WeSki insider tip: Head to the Hörnli sector mid-morning once the sun has warmed the slopes. The snow softens nicely and the gentle blues feel even more forgiving.

Intermediate skiing in Arosa

Intermediates will find plenty to keep them busy across both sides of the ski area. Red runs from the Weisshorn summit are long and satisfying, with open terrain that lets you build speed and work on technique. The link to Lenzerheide opens up even more variety, where the Rothorn sector on the Lenzerheide side has some excellent cruising runs with proper alpine views.

What makes Arosa work so well for intermediates is the sense of progression. You can start on the mellower blues around Hörnli, move onto the reds as your legs warm up, and then venture across to Lenzerheide for a change of scenery. The 11km longest run is a proper leg-burner and a satisfying way to end the day.

WeSki insider tip: Take the Urdenbahn over to Lenzerheide in the afternoon. The slopes on that side hold their condition well and tend to be quieter after lunch.

Advanced and expert skiing in Arosa

The Weisshorn provides the most challenging terrain on the Arosa side, with steep black runs dropping from the summit and some excellent off-piste itineraries when conditions allow. North-facing slopes below the Brüggerhorn hold snow well and offer sustained steep pitches that require committed, confident skiing.

For those comfortable venturing off-piste, the terrain between Arosa and Lenzerheide has some rewarding options, particularly after a fresh snowfall. Bowls below the Weisshorn summit are relatively accessible, though hiring a local guide is recommended for the less-travelled routes.

WeSki insider tip: The Brüggerhorn north face holds powder long after a storm while the rest of the resort gets tracked out. It's worth making it your first run on a powder day.

Snowboarding in Arosa

Arosa's wide, open terrain is well suited to snowboarding. The natural halfpipe-like bowls, consistent pitch, and minimal flat sections make it a comfortable resort to ride. Terrain parks here include features for different levels, and the mellow, uncrowded atmosphere means you'll get plenty of laps in without long waits.

Off-piste skiing

Arosa's off-piste potential is underrated. The open bowls beneath the Weisshorn and the north-facing couloirs off the Brüggerhorn provide genuine backcountry terrain when conditions are right. After a fresh dump, the accessible sidecountry near the lifts gets tracked quickly, so hiring a mountain guide opens up longer, quieter descents into the valleys surrounding the resort.

Arosa ski school and lessons

Several ski schools operate in Arosa, including the Swiss Ski School Arosa, which offers group and private lessons for all ages and levels. English-speaking instructors are widely available. Children's programmes are well structured, with dedicated teaching areas that keep young learners in their own space, away from busier runs.

Arosa snow parks

Arosa has four terrain parks and a halfpipe, catering to different ability levels. The main park features kickers, rails, and boxes that are regularly shaped, while smaller parks provide a progression-friendly environment for those just getting started with freestyle. Snow tubing lanes are a popular addition for families and anyone fancying a break from skiing.

Arosa piste map

1. Arosa Family ski holiday
2. Things to do in Arosa
3. Planning your trip to Arosa
4. How to get to Arosa
5. Arosa FAQs

Arosa family ski holiday

Arosa is a resort where families can genuinely relax. Its village is compact and largely car-free in the centre, so children can move around safely without parents worrying. For parents, Arosa's wellness scene is a genuine draw. The Tschuggen Bergoase spa is world-class, and several hotels have their own pool and sauna facilities.

Ski schools have dedicated beginner areas separated from the main slopes, and the gentle terrain means even nervous first-timers tend to find their feet quickly. Childcare facilities and snow gardens are available for the youngest members of the family. Older children and teenagers will enjoy the terrain parks, and there's enough variety on the mountain to challenge improving skiers without overwhelming them (the link to Lenzerheide in particular gives adventurous teens a real sense of exploration).

Activities like toboggan runs, and the ice rink give the whole family something to do on rest days, and The Arosa Bärenland (bear sanctuary) is a particularly unique attraction. Restaurants at Arosa are family-friendly without being exclusively so, and the relaxed evening atmosphere means nobody's under pressure to choose between an early dinner or a late night.

Things to do in Arosa

Arosa's quiet valley setting and excellent facilities make rest days feel like a proper part of the holiday. Whether you're a non-skier, recovering from a big day on the mountain, or just fancy a change of pace, there's enough going on to fill a day without feeling like you're missing out on the slopes.

Snow activities

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Arosa has a strong selection of winter activities that take full advantage of the altitude and scenery:

• Snowshoeing: Guided trails through quiet alpine terrain above the village with panoramic Graubünden views.
• Toboggan run: A popular evening activity with the floodlit run from Prätschli being a family highlight.
• Cross-country skiing: Around 49km of groomed Nordic trails through the valley and surrounding forests.
• Ice skating: Outdoor rink in the village, perfect for an afternoon session with the children.
• Winter hiking: Cleared and marked paths winding through the Schanfigg valley and up to scenic viewpoints.
• Horse-drawn sleigh rides: Classic alpine experience through the snowy valley.
• Paragliding: Tandem flights launching from the Weisshorn for spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
• Snow tubing: Dedicated tubing lanes near the terrain park for a fun break from skiing for all ages.

Non-snow activities

For days off the mountain, Arosa has plenty to keep you busy indoors and around the village. The resort combines wellness, culture, and nature in a way that makes rest days feel rewarding rather than wasted.

• Tschuggen Bergoase Spa: Architecturally stunning spa designed by Mario Botta, with pools, saunas, and treatment rooms.
• Arosa Bärenland: The bear sanctuary just above the village is a unique attraction and a hit with families.
• Schanfigg Museum: Small local museum exploring the valley's farming heritage and alpine traditions.
• Hotel spas and wellness: Many hotels open their pool and sauna facilities to non-guests for day visits.
• Shopping: Browse village boutiques for Swiss watches, local crafts, and specialist ski gear.
• Scenic train journeys: The Arosa line from Chur is one of Switzerland's great railway routes, passing through tunnels and viaducts.
• Chur day trip: Switzerland's oldest city is just an hour away by train, with a beautiful old town, cafés, and museums.
• Library and cinema: The village has a cosy library and occasional film screenings for quieter evenings.

Arosa restaurants

Arosa's dining scene is compact but varied, blending traditional Graubünden cooking with some genuinely interesting options. Whether you want a hearty mountain lunch on a sun terrace or a refined evening meal, the resort covers the ground well for its size.

• Burestübli: Traditional Graubünden restaurant known for its fondues, raclette, and cosy wood-panelled interior.
• Gspan: Mountain restaurant with a sunny terrace and honest Swiss cooking, popular for long lunches.
• Kachelofa Stübli: Intimate restaurant in the Tschuggen Grand Hotel serving refined Alpine cuisine.
• Brüggli: Relaxed spot in the village centre for Swiss classics and pizza, a reliable family option.
• Alpenblick: On-mountain restaurant with panoramic views and hearty dishes after a morning on the slopes.
• Stüva Cuolm: Warm, traditional atmosphere serving seasonal Bündner specialities with attention to local ingredients.
• Carmenna: High-altitude restaurant above the treeline, the views are worth the trip alone.
• Pratschli: Charming mountain hut serving cheese dishes and homemade desserts in a cosy setting.

WeSki insider tip: Try Capuns - a Graubünden speciality of filled chard leaves in a creamy herb sauce. It's comfort food at its best and something you're unlikely to find outside this region.

Arosa après-ski

Arosa's après-ski scene is where you'll settle into a comfortable bar with a glass of wine after a day on the mountain, enjoy live music on a sun terrace, and still feel fresh enough to ski well the next morning. The atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious, with a mix of families, couples, and groups all finding their own pace.

Things do pick up in the evenings, with a handful of bars offering live music, but for the most part, Arosa après has a gentle rhythm - think conversation, fondue, and the occasional late night rather than table-dancing and tequila shots.

Après-ski spots to know:

• Brüggli Bar: Central meeting point for a post-ski drink, with a relaxed, friendly, and reliably busy atmosphere.
• Nuts Bar: Popular with a younger crowd, with cocktails and DJ sets on busier evenings.
• Gspan Bar: Mountain-side bar where you can catch the last of the sun with a mulled wine.
• Hotel Cristallo Bar: Elegant lounge bar for quieter drinks and a more refined evening atmosphere.
• Prätschli Bar: Cosy mountain bar that doubles as a stop on the toboggan run for a fun evening out.
• Tschuggen Bar: Stylish hotel bar with an excellent cocktail list and a relaxed, upmarket feel.

Planning your trip to Arosa

Arosa accommodation

Accommodation in Arosa ranges from grand five-star hotels to comfortable apartments and chalets. A range of three- and four-star hotels and holiday apartments offer good mid-range choices, too. Chalets and apartments suit families who want more space and flexibility, while hotels are the easier option for couples and shorter breaks.

Arosa's village is compact, so most accommodation is within a 10-15 minute walk of the lifts, and ski buses run regular circuits connecting all areas. The Innerarosa area is closest to the main lifts and the village centre, putting you within easy reach of restaurants and shops. Properties further towards Ausserarosa tend to be quieter and are well served by the ski bus.

Arosa ski pass

The main ski pass covers the full Arosa Lenzerheide ski area, giving you access to all 225km of pistes and 43 lifts across both resorts. Multi-day passes are available and typically represent better value than single-day tickets.

Check for family and multi-day pass options when booking your Arosa ski holiday through WeSki to find the best fit for your trip.

Equipment hire

Several equipment rental shops operate in Arosa village, stocking a full range of skis, snowboards, boots, and accessories for all levels. Collection is straightforward, either from the village or from shops near the base lifts, and staff can help match you with the right gear for your ability and the conditions. Pre-booking online is recommended during peak weeks, and most shops offer multi-day discounts.

Getting around Arosa

Arosa is small enough that most of the village is walkable, and the centre is largely pedestrianised. Ski buses run regular loops connecting all accommodation areas to the main lifts throughout the day. Evening bus services run until late, making it easy to get back from restaurants and bars without needing a taxi. Taxis are available for late-night trips or for reaching properties further from the centre. The resort's compact layout means you're never far from a lift station, a bus stop, or the village centre.

How to get to Arosa

Arosa is accessible from Zurich Airport, around 150km to the north, with flight options also available from Milan and Innsbruck. The scenic train journey from Zurich via Chur takes approximately 2.5 hours and is one of the most enjoyable approaches to any Swiss resort. The final stretch on the Arosa line from Chur climbs through tunnels and across viaducts, giving you a proper introduction to the mountains during the scenic journey. Driving from Zurich takes around two hours via the A3 and A13 motorways.

WeSki offers car rentals from the airport as well as private transfers to Arosa. Add them to your Arosa ski holiday package for seamless door-to-door travel.

Arosa FAQs

Is Arosa good for beginners?

Arosa is an excellent choice for beginners. Nursery slopes near the village are gentle and well-maintained, with moving carpet lifts and dedicated teaching areas. The progression to easy blue runs is natural, and the resort's uncrowded slopes give new skiers plenty of space to practise. Ski schools with English-speaking instructors are readily available, and the relaxed atmosphere makes the whole learning experience less intimidating than in busier resorts.

How does Arosa compare to Davos?

Both are in Graubünden and within easy reach of each other, but they have different characters. Arosa is smaller, quieter, and more village-like - it suits families and those who want a relaxed pace. Davos is a larger town with more extensive terrain, a bigger nightlife scene, and additional non-skiing amenities. If you want peace and scenic beauty, Arosa is the better fit; if you want more terrain variety and a livelier atmosphere, Davos may suit you better.

Is the snow reliable in Arosa?

Arosa's base sits at around 1,800m with slopes reaching 2,865m, which gives it strong natural snow reliability for much of the season. The season typically runs from late November through to late April. Higher slopes hold their snow well, and the resort's sheltered valley position helps protect against wind and rapid thaw. Snowmaking covers key runs to top up during leaner spells.

Is Arosa worth the trip from the UK?

If you're looking for a quieter, more authentic Swiss ski experience without the crowds and prices of the biggest-name resorts, Arosa is well worth considering. The train journey from Zurich is straightforward and scenic, the skiing is varied and uncrowded, and the village has a genuine warmth that's hard to manufacture. It suits families, couples, and anyone who values atmosphere over aggressive après-ski or extreme terrain.

Can you ski to Lenzerheide from Arosa?

Yes. The Urdenbahn gondola connects the two resorts, and a single ski pass covers both sides. You can ski across to Lenzerheide and back in a day, which adds significant variety to your week. The Lenzerheide side has its own distinct character and terrain, including some excellent long red runs and a different perspective on the surrounding peaks.

What's the best way to get from Zurich to Arosa?

The most popular route is by train, you can take the main line from Zurich to Chur, then change to the narrow-gauge Arosa line. The total journey takes about 2.5 hours and the final stretch is one of Switzerland's most scenic railway routes. Driving takes around two hours. WeSki also offers private transfers from Zurich Airport, which you can add to your Arosa ski holiday package for a hassle-free arrival.

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