Lenzerheide

Lenzerheide is a tranquil, family-oriented resort nestled at 1,229m in the Graubünden canton of Switzerland. Unlike many high-altitude, purpose-built stations, it offers a relaxed atmosphere in a sunny valley between Chur and the Julier Pass, centred around the picturesque, often-frozen Heidsee lake. It boasts a strong community feel, where locals and visitors share the slopes, maintaining an authentic Swiss village ambiance throughout the season.

The Arosa Lenzerheide ski area provides 225km of pistes, ranging from 1,229m to 2,865m, and is serviced by 43 lifts. The season typically runs from late November to mid-April. This extensive and varied terrain caters primarily to intermediate skiers, with rolling red runs and expansive slopes. Beginners benefit from gentle, sunny areas at various base locations. Advanced skiers will discover steeper challenges off the Weisshorn and opportunities for off-piste exploration near Brüggerhorn. The Urdenbahn cable car seamlessly links Lenzerheide with Arosa, allowing for full days of skiing across two valleys, with east and south-east facing slopes catching the morning sun, and the Lenzerheide side enjoying afternoon light.

The Arosa Lenzerheide ski area offers an expansive and uncrowded experience for skiers and snowboarders. From the Lenzerheide side, the Rothorn summit, at 2,865m, provides lengthy descents with spectacular views across the Graubünden Alps. Runs are spread across both sides of the valley, featuring the sun-drenched Scalottas area on one side and the more diverse Stätzerhorn terrain on the other. The connection to Arosa adds another dimension, with its more sheltered, bowl-shaped slopes offering a distinct mountain character. Traversing between the two resorts ensures a varied day and a sense of exploring a larger mountain landscape.

Beginners are well catered for in Lenzerheide, with dedicated nursery areas that are gentle, well-serviced, and separated from faster traffic. Progression to longer blue runs is smooth, with wide, well-groomed options in the sunny Scalottas area, perfect for building confidence. The Arosa side also features excellent beginner terrain around the Prätschli area, allowing learners to venture further as their skills develop.

Intermediate skiers will find the Arosa Lenzerheide area highly rewarding. The 225km of pistes include a wide array of red runs, from long, flowing descents off the Rothorn to more technical forest trails. The Rothorn descent is a particular highlight, offering sustained length and varied terrain. The diversity between the two sides of the mountain ensures a full week of exploration without repetition. Advanced skiers can tackle several steep black runs, particularly off the Rothorn and Stätzerhorn, with challenging pitches. The Weisshorn area on the Arosa side provides further serious terrain for experts. When conditions permit, the off-piste from the Rothorn summit offers excellent freeride opportunities on north-facing slopes that retain snow well. Guided backcountry touring options are also available in the surrounding mountains.