Felicity Long
Hot enough for you?
With this summer's record-breaking heat wave barely in the rearview mirror, some winter sports enthusiasts are already dreaming of a vacation on the slopes.
With that in mind, some LGBTQ travelers are looking ahead to January for Arosa Gay Ski Week 2024, set for Jan. 20 to 27.
The rainbow flag flies over Arosa during Gay Ski Week. Photo Credit: Aaron Cobbett
The annual festivities, which encompass a lot more than skiing, kicked off in 2005 and have been going strong ever since.
Arosa itself, a mountain destination in Switzerland, is part of the draw. Accessible by rail or car from Zurich Airport, the resort features a massive amount of Alpine terrain, including a whopping 140 miles of runs over two valleys, a snow park and a freeride zone.
And while Arosa is known for being friendly to LGBTQ travelers all season, Gay Ski Week is an over-the-top celebration of diversity and inclusivity designed to support LGBTQ causes and initiatives. Part of the proceeds from the nonprofit event will be donated to organizations dedicated to promoting equality and acceptance.
Arosa Gay Ski Week is a colorful event designed to support LGBTQ causes and initiatives. Photo Credit: Aaron Cobbett
Organizers are proactively encouraging more women to attend, with such offerings as lesbian DJs and ski guides.
The terrain offers skiing for visitors of all levels, but nonskiers are also welcome, with such off-slope activities as ice-skating and swimming facilities.
The robust nightlife scene ranges from apres-ski parties and themed dinners to live performances.
Visitors can take a quieter approach to the festivities with events like classical concerts, spa treatments and saunas.
Attendees can also explore the village of Arosa, sampling regional cuisine and local culture in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
The event partners with a number of local hotels, including Alpenblick, Arlenwald, Arosa Exklusiv, Arosa Holiday, Aves, Cristallo Arosa Hotel, Faern, Haus Belmont, Hof Arosa, Hof Maran, Home Hotel Arosa, Kulm, Provisorium 13, Seehof, Robinson Club, Tschuggen Grand, Valsana and Vetter.