At the very end of one of the world's most spectacular rail journeys, Arosa is a lot more than just a ski resort. It's popular out of season with hikers and bikers, and, as well as offering some visually outstanding downhill and cross-country skiing, Arosa is also wonderfully equipped to keep skaters, tobogganers, snow shoe walkers, and snowboarders happy.
Arosa is a fairly small resort, so the best places to stay in town tend to be those with the best access to the slopes. Despite its size, it's a very good ski resort: Arosa's recently built gondola link to Lenzerheide gives the two resorts the largest skiable area in Graubünden. In addition to around 225kms of piste, including some fun moguls around the Weisshorn, there's another 40kms of marked free riding runs and plenty of unmarked off-piste area to explore with 42 lifts to connect it all.
At an altitude of between 1,230metres and 2,865metres Arosa has plenty of alpine magic. It could be the tinkling of the sleigh bells, the prevalence of fondu and raclette on menus or the half-timbered chalets decorated with the traditional monochrome Graubünden designs. Additionally, the sunshine and snow are pretty reliable and it's fairly relaxed.
What Not To Miss
- Arosa also offers night skiing, sleigh rides and plenty of variety when it comes to aprés ski. It is a fairly small resort, so the best places to stay in town tend to be those with the best access to the slopes.
- The resort also clearly has non-skiers in mind, as there are plenty of beautiful walking trails leading to restaurants in which skiers could easy meet you for lunch.
- Arosa has a reputation as a family resort and there are certainly plenty of extras laid on to please the younger crowd, from skiing and snowboarding talent shows to night skiing to the sled runs. And which kid isn't going to at least try raclette?
- Ease those aching muscles at Tschuggen Bergoase Spa with a fantastic assortment of programs and facilities ensuring that visitors will leave refreshed and ready to get back onto the mountain.
- Visit Bergkirchli, an extremely historic wooden chapel overlooking a stunning alpine backdrop - a great way to experience something a bit different on your holiday.
Don't forget that if you're planning to book one of the best places to stay in Arosa during the peak periods including Christmas, New Year and February half term, you'll have to get organised. If you leave it till the last minute, you're likely to be disappointed.