Best Things to Do in Arosa in Summer – Family Friendly Guide

Arosa in summer is an outdoor playground for families. Whether you love hiking, biking, swimming, or spotting wildlife, this Swiss alpine village offers endless adventures.

Visit Arosa in Summer

Discover the best of Arosa in summer, where alpine meadows burst with wildflowers, crystal-clear lakes sparkle in the sunshine, and outdoor adventures await around every corner. If your family loves hiking, biking, wildlife encounters, and beating the crowds, then Arosa is the perfect Swiss mountain village for your summer holiday.

In this guide, I’ve listed our favourite things to do in Arosa in summer, especially for families who love being outdoors. I’ve grouped them so you can easily build your own itinerary or combine nearby activities for a full day of fun.

Also read best things to do in Arosa in Winter

No time to read? Pin it for later so you don’t miss out!

Arosa in a Nutshell

Arosa is a charming Swiss mountain village in the canton of Graubünden, located at an altitude of 1775 metres. What makes it truly special is its setting: one winding road with 360 bends (just take it easy) leads from Chur up into a high valley where the road ends and adventure begins. From here, countless hiking and biking trails start, alongside sparkling alpine lakes.

And while Arosa is famous as a winter ski resort (linked with Lenzerheide), summer reveals a whole other side – peaceful trails, playful wildlife, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

How to Get to Arosa

Reaching Arosa is already part of the adventure – the journey itself is so scenic that it feels like a holiday highlight. Whether you arrive by train or car, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking Alpine views.

By Train
The most charming way to get to Arosa is by train. From Zurich, it takes just under two hours: first a direct train to Chur (around 1 hour 15 minutes), and then you change onto the little red Rhaetian Railway to Arosa.

That last leg from Chur to Arosa is something special. In just an hour you travel 26 kilometres, while the train climbs 1000 metres of altitude through forests and it crosses the famous Langwieser Viaduct before arriving in Arosa. So definitely grab a window seat. Trains run hourly, so it’s very easy to plan. If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, you can just hop on the train without worrying to get another ticket.

By Car
Driving up to Arosa is just as memorable. From Zurich, it takes around two hours (about 150 km). You’ll follow the motorway to Chur, and from there it’s only 30 km to Arosa – but don’t be fooled by the distance. This mountain road is famous for its hairpin bends (over 360 of them!) as it snakes its way up into the mountains.

In summer, it’s a wonderful drive with incredible views at every turn. In winter, you’ll need proper winter tyres and, depending on the conditions, snow chains. Take it slowly, enjoy the scenery, and make sure to stop at the designated viewpoints along the way.

Once you arrive, you’ll find several public car parks around Arosa, particularly near the cable cars and by the lake. Most hotels in Arosa  also provide parking for their guests.

If you need car rentals in Switzerland we recommend to get your quotes from Discover Cars

Understanding Arosa’s Layout

Arosa is split into  Arosa  and Innerarosa. During our first visit, I found it a bit tricky to get my bearings. Distances can be longer than they look, so sometimes a bus ride is better than a walk. Don’t worry though – after a day or two, you’ll get used to the layout, and the free buses make it easy to get around.

(Tip: check the two photos below for the main activity locations to plan your days more easily.)

Where to Stay in Arosa

There’s no shortage of hotels in Arosa, but two of our favourites for families are:

• Hotel Sunstar Arosa (Swiss Family Hotel label) – This hotel is perfect for family with kids, with a huge play area including a Ninja Park, bouncy castle, uni-hockey, slides, and more – all indoors, making it great for rainy days too. It also has a big swimming pool and a relaxing spa for parents.
• Arosa Kulm Hotel – Currently undergoing renovation (summer 2025), but once reopened, it’s another family favourite. In winter, it’s right next to the beginner’s slope with the ski bus stopping at the door, at Innerarosa.

Browse the map below to find your perfect family-friendly accommodation in Arosa.

And if you need family friendly hotel recommendations in Switzerland check out these 8 Swiss family hotels.

Arosa Card – Free Mountain Lifts & Discounts

One of the best reasons to stay in Arosa for a few days is the Arosa All-Inclusive Card, which you’ll receive for free when staying overnight (hotel, holiday apartment, or campsite) between mid-June and mid-October.

The card includes free mountain lift tickets and many other discounts or free activities, making it a huge saving for families. Every family member gets their own card – it’s absolutely worth it. Sometimes if we’re a bit lazy but still want to explore the region, we just ride all the mountain cable cars.

Best Things to Do in Arosa in Summer

These family friendly activities in Arosa can all be done in a 2-3 day itinerary. I have listed them so you can start the day with point 1 and finish with point 8. Especially if you’re staying at Hotel Sunstar Arosa, as the Ninja parkour is at the hotel. The next morning head to the skill park and attempt the Hörnli flow trail with kids or enjoy one of the many hiking trails in Arosa.

Here are our favourite Arosa summer activities for families, based on our own trips:

1. Enjoy the Views from Weisshorn

Because the Arosa Card includes the gondola ride, all you have to do is head up to the Weisshorn summit. The Weisshorn cable car takes you to 2,653 m above sea level, where an impressive panoramic view awaits. Hiking trails wind through beautiful flower meadows, while bikers can experience thrilling downhill runs (for advanced bikers only).

At the summit, you’ll also find the prize-winning modern summit restaurant designed by Tilla Theus, awarded in 2013 for outstanding mountain architecture. Why not enjoy a coffee or even lunch with a view?

2. Arosa Bärenland – Visit the Bear Sanctuary

Have you really visited Arosa if you haven’t been to the Arosa Bear Sanctuary? Located at 2,000 m (middle station of the Weisshorn gondola), you can see bears in their natural environment while supporting a unique animal conservation project established with FOUR PAWS.

These rescued bears were formerly kept in circuses or poor enclosures and can now live a better life.

Good to Know:

• Opening hours: Check the official website.
• Tickets: Buy on-site; with the Arosa Card, there’s a discount (about CHF 8 per adult).
• At the middle station, you’ll also find a small minigolf and playground, perfect for kids. Also included in the Arosa card

3. Eichhörnliweg – Squirrel Trail, the Cutest Hike

Every time we head to Arosa, we all look forward to this hike—or more accurately, a gentle stroll—along the Eichhörnliweg (Squirrel Trail). These adorable squirrels are so curious that, with a bit of patience, they may even climb onto your lap to take nuts directly from your hand.

And it’s not just the squirrels—birds also approach and may land on your hand if you have food.

Food to Bring:
Bring Spanish nuts, walnuts, or hazelnuts. For birds, sunflower seeds work well. Most hotels provide small bags, or you can buy them locally.

Starting Point:
The trail begins at Tomeli Street, below Waldhotel National. Following our itinerary, this stroll fits perfectly after points one and two. From the bottom of the Weisshorn Gondola, you can walk straight up to the trail, adding only about 600 m.

On the Trail:
Within a few meters, you’ll start seeing squirrels. Best is to sit on the path and wait with nuts in your hands, on your legs, or in front of you. The trail leads through the forest up to Maran, where a playground and fire pit await.

Trail Length & Tips:
The full trail is 1.7 km. It’s also a good activity on rainy days. For more interaction, boards explain squirrel facts, and the Arosa Tourism office offers a puzzle booklet about the trail.

4. Pedalo Boat or Rowing on the Lake Arosa Obersee

With the Arosa Card, you get 30 minutes of free pedalo or rowing on the Obersee. A perfect way to end an active day. The boat house is located on the opposite side of the lake from the train station.

5. Arosa Adventure Park – Tree Top Park

If you love treetop rope parks, the Arosa Seilpark is perfect. It’s large and offers different sections and levels for every age and height.

With the Arosa Card, entry is reduced to about CHF 8 per person instead of CHF 28. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, so plan accordingly if you’re bringing kids.

6. Pumptrack, Playground, and Sports Arena

Next to the Obersee lake is the sports arena area called Ochsenbühl Playground, which includes a pump track. When we visited, there was often an event happening, making it a lively spot for families.

7. Go Swimming at Strandbad Untersee

A beautiful lake badi (public outdoor swimming area). The water is very cold, likely from glacial melt, so be prepared!

I love the traditional feel of the 1950s-style changing cabins. The large grassy area is perfect for games, and entry is free with the Arosa Card.

8. Become a Ninja at the Indoor Parkour

Kids aged 10 and older can try the Indoor Ninja Parkour at the Sunstar Hotel Arosa. We gave it a go ourselves—it’s quite advanced! Hotel guests have free access to the fun room where the parkour is located.

9. Improve Your Bike Skills at the Arosa Skill Centre

The Skill Centre at the bottom of the Hörnli lift in Innerarosa is free to use. Kids can spend hours here practicing flow trails, jumps, and wooden curves.

There’s a magic carpet to bring riders back to the top. This is perfect for gaining confidence before trying the Hörnli Flow Trail. There’s a seating area, and a kiosk sells snacks and drinks during opening hours.

10. Bike Down the Hörnli Flow Trail

After the Skill Centre, take the gondola and ride the Hörnli Trail. We’ve tried both red and blue flow trails; the red one is intermediate.

There are a few stones on the trail, but nothing too difficult for beginners. The trail is 6.8 km long, so smaller kids may get tired—plan breaks accordingly.

11. Hike or Bike to Schwellisee Lake

From Innerarosa or directly from the Hörnli Lift Skill Centre, you can hike or bike to Schwellisee Lake. The loop is 4.6 km; slightly shorter if starting from the Hörnli Lift.

There is another higher lake, Älplisee, but the access road was under construction on our visits, so we only enjoyed Schwellisee—it’s stunning!

12. Hike some of the Many Trails in Arosa

Arosa has countless hiking trails for every level. Short family strolls, full-day alpine adventures, or scenic lake loops—there’s something for everyone. Check the local tourism site to find the trail that fits your family’s needs.

FAQs – Things to Do in Arosa in Summer

1. When is the best time to visit Arosa in summer?

The summer season in Arosa usually runs from June to September, when the weather is warm, trails are clear, and alpine flowers are in full bloom. This is perfect for hiking, biking, and family-friendly outdoor activities.

2. Do I need a car to explore Arosa?

Not necessarily. Arosa is very walkable, and the gondolas, funiculars, and local buses make it easy to reach hiking trails, lakes, and attractions. Many activities, like the Squirrel Trail or Obersee, are close to the town centre. But you may want to rent a car to travel to Arosa. In this case we recommend Discover Cars for many different options. Alternatively you can arrive to Arosa by train. And conveniently the Swiss Travel Pass covers the area.

3. Can I bring kids to all the activities in Arosa?

Yes! Most attractions are family-friendly. Trails like Eichhörnliweg, the Bike Skill Centre, and the Obersee playground are perfect for children. For more adventurous activities, check age or height restrictions, like the Indoor Ninja Parkour is as of 10 years old.

4. What is the Arosa Card, and is it worth it?

The Arosa Card offers free or discounted access to gondolas, lifts, pedalo boats, and some attractions. If you plan multiple activities, it can save a lot of money and makes exploring the area much easier.

5. How long does the Squirrel Trail (Eichhörnli-Weg) take?

The full trail is 1.7 km, but with stops to feed squirrels and enjoy the forest, it can take 1–2 hours. It’s also suitable on rainy days, and kids usually love the interactive puzzle booklet from Arosa Tourism.

6. Are there good options for swimming in Arosa?

Yes! The Strandbad Untersee is particularly family-friendly, with grassy areas, traditional changing cabins, and cold, refreshing water. Entry is free with the Arosa Card.

Final Thoughts on Arosa in Summer

We’ve visited Arosa three times – twice in summer and once in winter – and every visit leaves us wanting to return. The mix of alpine nature, family-friendly activities, and the incredible Arosa Card make it one of the best Swiss destinations for active families.

If you’re planning a summer holiday in the Swiss Alps, Arosa should definitely be on your list. And who knows – after summer, you may want to come back for the winter magic in Arosa too.

Swiss Travel Guides

On our website you find great selection from  Swiss Travel Itineraries, Swiss Travel Inspirations, or any Swiss Travel Advice. We hope to make it easy for you to travel Switzerland with your family.

Furthermore, you find honest hotel reviews to ensure your good night’s sleep.

If you need any help in sorting out your Swiss itinerary I am here to help! Book a chat with us and together we tailor the best itinerary that fits your needs!

• Enjoy the Bergün-Filisur sledge run – Preda-Bergün
• 16+ best Ski resorts in Switzerland 
• Rocksresort Laax – Adventure Sports Hotel for the family 
• Graubünden – Landwasser Viadukt- when best to visit
• Flims : Best viewpoints at the Rheinschlucht
• Hotel Arosa Kulm & Alpine Spa

I hope that the information provided here will prove useful when planing a summer in Arosa with the family.

If I have left anything out or you have a question, please ask in the comments below.  This way other readers can join in the conversation and benefit from your queries also.

Thank you & Never Forget to Explore

Thanks for sharing it!