Lenzerheide is a traditional Swiss resort village known for its scenic lakeside setting, relaxed atmosphere, and excellent connections to one of the country’s largest skiing domains: Arosa Lenzerheide. Whether you’re a family discovering gentle slopes, an intermediate hoping to rack up the kilometres, or an advanced rider looking to test your mettle on a World Cup run, Lenzerheide offers a memorable winter getaway framed by the majestic Graubünden Alps.
Here’s a handy guide to help you plan your ideal Lenzerheide ski holiday, touching on everything from local highlights and runs for all abilities to the best places to eat and wind down after a day on the slopes.
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Lenzerheide lies in the canton of Graubünden in southeastern Switzerland, about 20 km (12 miles) south of the nearest major city, Chur.
Nearest airport
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Part of the largest ski area in Graubünden | Not as big or famous as some high-profile Swiss mega-resorts |
| Scenic lakeside setting | Can get busy during peak holiday weeks |
| Good variety of ski terrain | Limited après-ski, and nightlife |
| Many accommodations near the slopes | Very steep terrain is limited |
This short video provides a glimpse of everything Lenzerheide has to offer.
Previously separate ski areas joined forces in the 2013/2014 season with the construction of the Urdenbahn cable car, forming a continuous playground spanning both valleys. On the Lenzerheide side alone, you’ll find 4 snow park areas, 29 lifts, and 91 distinct slopes, from mellow family runs to the “Silvano Beltrametti” World Cup slope, which is reputedly the steepest in the region with a maximum gradient of around 66%. Skiers and snowboarders can expect modern lift infrastructure, multiple freestyle parks, and an array of mountain restaurants to explore.
Learning to ski is straightforward here. Lenzerheide features three main children’s areas (Auarara, Fastatsch, and Heimberg), where gently sloping terrain and magic carpets allow newcomers to gain confidence in a secure environment. Younger kids especially love the Globi slope (no. 45), where Switzerland’s lively blue parrot mascot teaches slope safety through fun stations. Several local ski schools provide English-speaking instructors, and equipment rental shops are abundant in the village.
With 87 km of red runs (in the full Arosa Lenzerheide network), intermediates can expect plenty of rolling terrain across multiple faces. You can roam between the Scalottas side and the Rothorn area for variety, or hop over to Arosa for even more mid-range routes. The result is an expansive domain offering broad pistes, forest-lined descents, and top-notch scenery, ideal for racking up mileage without feeling overwhelmed.
Though less renowned for expert terrain compared to some Swiss giants, Lenzerheide packs a punch with its Silvano Beltrametti World Cup slope, a formidable run boasting a steepest section of 66%. The Rothorn sector often includes more challenging reds and a handful of black pistes, providing enough variety to satisfy confident skiers in search of steeper descents within the groomed network.
Away from the marked slopes, Arosa–Lenzerheide features an extensive off-piste playground, comprising 29 varied freeride routes. Expect everything from rocky drop-ins and narrow couloirs to gentler powder fields, especially around the Rothorn in Lenzerheide or the Brüggerhorn in Arosa. Guided tours cater to different ability levels, and hiring a local guide is strongly advised for safe navigation, avalanche awareness, and insider tips on where to find the best snow.
Snowboarders will appreciate the 4 snow park areas on the Lenzerheide side alone, plus additional setups in Arosa, making the entire domain a freestyle hotspot in Graubünden. Wide blue and red pistes cater to mellow carving sessions, while the minimal reliance on drag lifts spares boarders the awkward climbs. From beginner boxes to advanced kickers, each park suits different skill levels, ensuring progression for every type of rider.
The ski season in Lenzerheide for 2024/25 started on November 23rd and it's expected to run until April 21st, though dates may vary depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Lenzerheide this season, be sure to explore our Lenzerheide deals for the best ski offers available.
Lenzerheide offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 24 cm (9.4 in) and 22 cm (8.6 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.0 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall decreases to 19 cm (7.4 in) but it occurs more frequently, averaging 3.1 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of December, traditionally the snowiest week in Lenzerheide, with an impressive 30 cm (11.8 in) of snow over 3.4 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 17 cm (6.6 in) of snow over 3.0 days.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 24 cm (9.4 in) | 3.1 days |
| January | 22 cm (8.6 in) | 3.0 days |
| February | 19 cm (7.4 in) | 3.1 days |
| March | 19 cm (7.4 in) | 3.3 days |
| April | 17 cm (6.6 in) | 3.0 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Lenzerheide is known for combining traditional Graubünden cooking, with global influences and high-end Swiss gastronomy. Highlights include:
Lenzerheide’s après-ski tends to be more relaxed than in some of Switzerland’s liveliest resorts, yet you’ll still find enough slope-side stops and in-town venues to celebrate. Highlights include:
Download Arosa-Lenzerheide piste map here
