Arolla Between Peaks and Glaciers

Arolla lies at 1,998 m above sea level at the upper end of the Val d’Hérens. The village is set in a distinctive high-alpine landscape, with trails to a mountain lake, glaciers and high-altitude destinations offering a range of experiences. Arolla can be reached by road, bus or private vehicle. As road and public transport conditions can change seasonally, it is advisable to check the latest connections before setting off.

High-Alpine Setting and the Haute Route

Arolla lies about 3.5 km north of the Arolla Glacier system around Mont Collon (3,637 m above sea level). The surrounding mountain peaks reach heights of between 3,600 and 4,000 m. To the northwest are the Aiguilles Rouges d’Arolla (3,646 m); to the southwest are Pigne d’Arolla (3,796 m), Mont Blanc de Cheilon (3,870 m) and La Ruinette (3,875 m).

Above the village, Cabane des Vignettes sits at 3,157 m in the Val d’Hérens. It lies on the Haute Route from Zermatt to Chamonix. The walk from Arolla to the hut takes 3 to 4 hours; route and glacier conditions may affect the actual crossing. This makes the high-altitude destination a clear contrast in terms of time to shorter trails in the valley.

Trails to the Lake and Glacier

The easy trail from Arolla via Pramousse leads to Lac Bleu d’Arolla at 2,090 m; the hike takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The lake lies at the lower end of the Val d’Hérens, amid an alpine landscape with diverse flora. In terms of time alone, this hike is shorter than the 3- to 4-hour walk to Cabane des Vignettes; the two routes lead to different destinations.

The route from Arolla to the foot of Glacier de Pièce follows the ski slopes. At 2,100 m, turn off across the slopes towards a moraine that leads directly to the glacier at 2,480 m. Alpine conditions may affect access. The glacier trail from Arolla offers a different focus: visitors learn how the ice masses have changed over time.

Winter Sports and Mountain Activities

The full Arolla cross-country ski trail is of moderate difficulty, 9.35 km long and listed as taking 2 hours and 21 minutes. As a seasonal route, it depends on snow and grooming conditions. The ski area lies between 2,000 and 3,000 m in altitude. Its aspect ensures optimal snow conditions throughout the season; operating conditions vary seasonally.

Arolla is also at the heart of the Haute Route and Patrouille des Glaciers routes. Numerous ski tours lead from here into the high mountains and can be used to prepare for major races. There are numerous climbing sectors at altitudes between 1,800 and 2,600 m. These elevations show how widely the mountain activities described are spread across the valley and its surroundings.

Village Character and Hotel History

As you stroll through the village, you’ll pass rustic wooden houses and the eponymous Arolla pines. The settlement has been documented since the Middle Ages and was discovered by mountaineers in the 19th century.

The hotel history also spans several generations: in 1865, Jean Anzévui had the Hôtel Mont Collon built; in 1898, Jean Gaspoz had the Grand Hôtel et Kurhaus built. The Hôtel du Pigne was established by Antoine Métrailler in 1911. Antoine Forclaz and the Follonier brothers built the Hotel Victoria in 1912; today it is called Aiguille de la Tsa. In 1935, Jean Anzévui had the Hôtel du Glacier built.

Discover more destinations: Les Haudères

View the broader travel guide: Evolène.