Arosa

A charming resort town nestled in the Schanfigg Valley surrounded by forests and mountains, Arosa is known for hiking, mountain biking, and relaxation. The car-free village center, pristine natural surroundings, and excellent wellness facilities make it a peaceful retreat.

Things to do

• Hiking in Schanfigg Valley — Explore well-marked trails through alpine meadows and forests with panoramic views of surrounding peaks.
• Arosa Bike Park — Ride purpose-built mountain bike trails ranging from beginner to advanced, with lift-assisted descents.
• Tschiertschen-Fopetran Ridge Walk — Trek along a scenic ridge trail offering 360-degree mountain vistas and access to small Alpine lakes.
• Arosa Wellness & Spa — Indulge in thermal pools, saunas, and spa treatments designed for relaxation in a mountain setting.
• Plessur Lake Circuit — Walk the scenic loop around the pristine Untersee lake with reflections of forested slopes.
• Rothorn Cable Car — Ascend via cable car to 2,693 meters for panoramic views across the Rhine Valley and Appenzell Alps.

Food to try

• Capuns — A traditional Graubünden specialty of chard and flour wrapped in thin dough and served with tomato sauce and cheese.
• Barley Soup (Gerstensuppe) — A hearty Alpine soup made with pearl barley, vegetables, and local meats, warming and traditional to the region.
• Pizokel — Buckwheat and potato dumplings served with melted cheese and caramelized onions, a Graubünden comfort food.
• Bundnerfleisch — Air-dried beef from the Graubünden region, thinly sliced and served as an appetizer or on local bread.
• Mountain Cheese Fondue — Melted local Graubünden cheese served with crusty bread and vegetables, perfect after a day of hiking.

Local customs & good to know

• Car-Free Village Center — The compact town center is pedestrian-only, preserving peace and allowing visitors to explore shops and restaurants on foot.
• Respect Hiking Trail Etiquette — Give way to mountain bikers and horses on trails, stay on marked paths, and greet fellow hikers with a friendly 'Grüezi'.
• Alpine Holiday Traditions — Arosa maintains seasonal Alpine customs including traditional cheese-making demonstrations and regional craft markets in summer and autumn.
• Early Dinner Timing — Mountain restaurants and local eateries often close by 9 or 10 PM, so plan dinner earlier than in cities.