Arosa Bärenland, Bear sanctuary in Arosa, Switzerland
Arosa Bärenland is a bear sanctuary at 2,000 metres above sea level near the Weisshornbahn mid-station, opened on 4 August 2018. Its fenced outdoor area covers about 2.8 hectares, divided into two sectors so bears can be separated. Below the visitor platform are five indoor stalls, each with a cave, plus additional enclosures and a veterinary station.
The project began in 2010 with the goal of rescuing bears from poor conditions and giving them a better life in nature. It resulted from collaboration between multiple organizations to advance bear protection in the region.
The sanctuary demonstrates how bears live in natural surroundings and their role in the ecosystem, helping visitors develop a deeper understanding of these animals. Observation stations allow guests to watch daily bear behavior while learning about their natural needs and habits.
The sanctuary is easiest to reach by the Arosa-Weisshorn mountain cable car, which brings visitors directly to the site. Multiple hiking trails and viewing points surround the area, allowing observation of the bears from different angles.
The sanctuary applies Vier Pfoten's no-breeding policy: only bears rescued from poor captive conditions are housed, and a bred cub would take the place of a mistreated bear. The first resident, Napa, arrived on 4 July 2018, before the official opening.
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