Arolla Resort Overview
Arolla village is located at a height of 1,998m with the highest ski lift reaching 3,000m. The resort is a hidden gem in the Valais region of Switzerland, known for its unspoilt natural beauty and tranquil vibe. Arolla is part of the expansive Espace Dent Blanche ski area, which boasts 120km of skiable terrain.
The quaint and traditional village offers a range of comfortable, family-run hotels and chalets. The resort typically sees an exceptional amount of snowfall and offers a picturesque white landscape throughout the ski season, which running from late November to late April.
Skiing in Arolla
Arolla is a paradise for skiers who love quiet, uncrowded slopes. The resort offers two lift pass options: an Arolla-only ski pass, which enables access to the 5 lifts in Arolla and over 42km of pistes, and the full Espace Dent Blanche ski pass, which offers an impressive 120km of pisted terrain to explore.
Arolla is perfect for beginners, with a large nursery slope located in the village centre. The resort is also a dream for intermediate skiers, with an array of blue and red runs to explore. We recommend trying the long, winding run from the top of Les Fontanesses lift down to the village, which offers stunning mountain views.
More experienced skiers can challenge themselves on Arolla’s high-altitude terrain. The Tsanfleuron glacier offers some exhilarating off-piste skiing, while the black run from Pas de Chèvre to Arolla will test even the most advanced skiers.
Is Arolla Family-friendly?
Arolla is an excellent ski resort for families seeking a peaceful and safe ski holiday. The car-free resort offers a range of family-friendly accommodation and the ski terrain caters to all abilities. The village has family-friendly restaurants and a natural ice rink, and children under the age of 6 can ski for free.
Après-Ski Scene in Arolla
Arolla offers a relaxed and laid-back après ski scene, with a few cosy bars and pubs scattered around the village. The most popular spot is The Pub Collon, known for its warm atmosphere, local beers and live music. The Hotel Kurhaus also has a lively bar that offers a range of local wines and spirits.
Dining in Arolla
Arolla offers a selection of charming eateries both on and off the slopes. In the village, Hotel du Glacier serves delicious Swiss cuisine with a modern twist, while Restaurant Les Marmottes offers traditional dishes in a cosy setting. For a mountainside lunch with incredible views, head to the Pas de Chèvre mountain hut.
How to Get To Arolla
The quickest way to get to Arolla from the UK is to fly to Geneva Airport, which is a 2h30m drive from Arolla. Other nearby airports include Turin Airport (3h) and Milan Malpensa Airport (3h30m). If you are travelling by train, the nearest station is Sion (1h30m transfer). If you choose to drive to Arolla, there is free parking available in the village.
Arolla Insider Tips
- Don’t miss the chance to explore the spectacular Arolla pine forest, one of the oldest in Europe!
- Take a day trip to the nearby village of Evolène for a taste of traditional Swiss culture.
- Try the local Valais wines at Hotel du Pigne’s cosy bar.
- Take the ski tour to the top of Pigne d’Arolla for breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.
