Cycling day trip from Chur to Arosa

This ride from Chur to Arosa is a true mountain adventure, perfect for folks who relish a climbing challenge and don’t mind swapping smooth tarmac for rugged trails. You’ll start in Chur, Switzerland’s oldest city—so take a moment to enjoy its charming old town before heading out. The route is about 39 km, but don’t be fooled—over 2,900 meters of ascent awaits you, so bring your climbing legs!

About a third of this ride is on unpaved surfaces, including everything from gravel to good old-fashioned ground, while paved stretches give you some relief. The tracks and quiet roads wind steadily uphill, with only short sections of busy road, so you can focus on the scenery: alpine forests, dramatic ravines, and, if you’re lucky, maybe even a glimpse of the Rhaetian Railway chugging far below.

When you roll into Arosa—famous as a ski resort and summer hiking hub—you’ve truly earned that mountain view (and maybe a slice of Apfelstrudel at a local café). Be prepared for variable terrain and a serious climb, but this is one of the most rewarding routes in the Swiss Alps!