Mittelbünden-Panoramaweg, Stage 1/2

This demanding route climbs from Lenzerheide towards the Parpaner Rothorn mountain, where iron ore was once mined long ago. You will also walk through Parc Ela, known for its abundant insect life. The descent leads through a lunar landscape and Swiss stone pine forests and past an idyllic little lake. Arosa, with all its tourist amenities, will already be in sight below.

From the Lenzerheide/Lai, Post stop, the route leads out of the village and soon begins the long ascent. Crossing open slopes, the hiking trail becomes a mountain trail; the terrain grows barer and increasingly rocky. After around 1'600 metres of ascent, the highest point is reached at about 2'860 m, close to the Parpaner Rothorn. The summit itself rises to 2'899 m and consists of a higher eastern summit and a western summit. The route continues through rocky high-mountain terrain to Gredigs Fürggli at around 2'615 m.

Beyond the pass, the long descent towards Arosa begins. The mountain trail leaves the rocks behind, crosses alpine pastures and reaches the Älplisee at around 2'160 m. It then follows the Plessur to the lower-lying Schwellisee, before meadows and the first houses once again begin to shape the landscape. The route passes through Innerarosa into the built-up area; the final kilometres lead downhill to Arosa. After a good eight hours, the hike ends near the Arosa stop.