The Cross-Country Area
With around 56 kilometers (35 miles) of cross-country ski trails, the Lenzerheide holiday region is one of the best cross-country skiing regions in Switzerland. Cross-country skiers of all levels can explore varied and freshly groomed trails between Lantsch/Lenz and Parpan. Whether for classic or skating, whether for a lap on the frozen Heidsee or on the demanding La Pala trails - the Lenzerheide network of tracks provides pure cross-country skiing enjoyment for beginners and experts alike.
Cross-country skiing centres in the holiday region
Three well-equipped cross-country skiing centres form the infrastructural basis in the Lenzerheide holiday region. They are located in Valbella (Canols), Lantsch/Lenz (Foppa) and Parpan. In addition to optimal access to the extensive cross-country ski trail network, the facilities offer various services such as food and drinks, toilets, changing rooms, showers, lockers or waxing rooms. In Parpan you can also rent cross-country skiing equipment or take lessons.
The Heart Trail in Lenzerheide
Together with the Swiss Heart Foundation, Loipen Schweiz has launched the Heart Loipen project. At five locations in Switzerland, short circular cross-country trails without steep inclines were selected. These are ideal for beginners and anyone who wants to exercise their heart. The route in Lenzerheide leads from Canol's cross-country skiing centre via the Hotel Seehof, the La Riva car park and the lake circuit back to the cross-country skiing centre.
Cross-country skiing events
In the winter season, various cross-country skiing events take place on the Lenzerheide cross-country ski runs. In addition to the fun runs of Planoiras and St. Cassian, the Tour de Ski, a major event in the Cross-Country World Cup, is also held here.
Biathlon - Nordic combined sport
The Biathlon Arena Lenzerheide in Lantsch/Lenz was built in 2013. It is the country's first permanently installed biathlon facility and an important training and competition centre for national and international teams. The centerpiece of the arena is the world cup-compliant fully automatic shooting range with 30 stands. In addition, ten target positions can be used for training or competitions with air rifles. During the winter months, the Biathlon Arena also offers four snow-covered circuits ranging from 500 meters (1640 feet) to four kilometers (2.5 miles) and a 150-meter (492 foot) penalty round.
The Most Beautiful Tracks
Trails for beginners
Newcomers will find numerous easy cross-country trails between St. Cassian and the golf course, on the idyllic Heidsee and between Parpan and Mittelberg. The starting points of the routes marked in blue can be easily reached by public transport. In addition, the cross-country skiing centres of the holiday region are located in close proximity.
Advanced trails
Those who have successfully mastered their first attempts at cross-country skiing can explore the trails marked in red. These are spread over the entire route network and their altitude difference demands stamina and technique. The trails towards Capfeders (Parpan) and Bual (Lantsch/Lenz) are particularly beautiful and both lead to picturesque places in the Lenzerheide high valley.
Trails for experts
The black La Pala cross-country track in Lenzerheide is a challenge even for experienced cross-country skiers. On the 5.4 kilometre long, physically and technically demanding route, a 133 meter (436 foot) difference in altitude awaits to be overcome.
Night run
Cross-country skiers in Lenzerheide can glide through the winter landscape even after dusk falls. For this purpose, an approximately four kilometre (2.5 mile) long section of the Lantsch/Lenz cross-country ski trail is illuminated daily from 5 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.
Interesting facts
- Offering 56 km cross-country trails, Lenzerheide is among the 5 largest Cross-Country Skiing Areas in Grisons.
- The highest point of the track is 1,580 m above sea level.
- Snow coverage is usually best during March, offering an average snow depth of 156 cm at summit elevation and 102 cm at the base.
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Getting Here
By car:Coming from Zurich, follow the A3 motorway to Chur. There, switch to the B3, which leads to Lenzerheide. If you want to get there via Lugano/Bellinzona from the South, take the A13 to Thusis (exit 22) and follow the Voa Canius to Lenzerheide.
By public transport: You can travel to the train station of Chur or Tiefencastel. From there, take the post bus to Lenzerheide. Between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. there is a daily sports bus service in the holiday region. Cross-country skiers can use this bus free of charge.