Lech

About Lech

The route to Lech is an exhilarating introduction to this Alberg resort. The steep valleys and 9,000-foot peaks provide a dramatic entrance into this famous region of the Alps. Founded in the 14th Century, Lech, and neighboring Zurs, are considered by many as the birthplace of Alpine skiing.

As home to many former Olympians and professional winter sports athletes, Lech’s slopes bask in international fame. Because it sits in a box canyon abutted by Flexen Pass, Lech is more exclusive in comparison to St. Anton and enjoys shorter lift lines and less crowded slopes. Its remote locale attracts celebrities, like Tom Cruise and Dutch Queen Beatrix. And while Lech is a popular destination for the rich and famous—expect to see Porsches—the resort has managed to retain its medieval allure and quaint atmosphere. You’ll feel transported back in time while walking along the Lech River and the village streets, littered with traditional Bavarian architecture. This idyllic setting offers downhill runs from both sides of the valley right to the center of town, and with a myriad of outdoor cafes and late afternoon tea dances, so you can bet the people (and skier) watching in Lech is all-time.

On a Lech ski vacation, you truly have it all: a lift ticket that accesses nearby Zurs, Zug, St. Anton, St. Christoph and Stuben, plus world-famous ski schools, guided ski tours and heliskiing. In addition, there's a laundry list of things to do in Lech from paragliding, winter hiking and cross-country skiing, to ice skating, Austrian-style curling, toboggan runs and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

How to get to Lech

Traveling to Lech is straightforward with several transportation options. The nearest airport is in Innsbruck, about a two-hour drive away, while Zurich and Munich are also accessible within a few hours by car. Once in Lech, a network of shuttle services and local buses ensures easy access to ski areas and surrounding attractions.

Getting around Lech, Austria, is as simple as pie with its convenient transportation options. A reliable free ski bus service connects the main areas, making it easy to hop between the village, lifts, and neighboring resorts. For a more relaxed experience, the picturesque village is perfect for walking.

Skiing in Lech

The many tree-free, wide-open bowls provide great skiing for all levels, but it’s advanced to expert skiers who truly call Lech home. This ski area boasts world-class on and off-piste skiing, as well as one of the best snowfalls in the Alps. Lech skiing is best done with a guide, as there are many “ski routes,” which are avalanche-controlled, but not groomed or patrolled. Hiring a guide is well-worth the extra money as the “ski routes” are the best places to find untracked powder and breathtaking views.

As home to many former Olympians and professional winter sports athletes, Lech’s slopes bask in international fame. Because it sits in a box canyon abutted by Flexen Pass, Lech is more exclusive in comparison to St. Anton and enjoys shorter lift lines and less crowded slopes. Its remote locale attracts celebrities, like Tom Cruise and Dutch Queen Beatrix. And while Lech is a popular destination for the rich and famous—expect to see Porsches—the resort has managed to retain its medieval allure and quaint atmosphere. You’ll feel transported back in time while walking along the Lech River and the village streets, littered with traditional Bavarian architecture.

Powderhounds should head to the Steinmähder chair, just below Zuger Hochlicht. All the “routes” in this zone require short climbs to access bowls with endless amounts of fresh snow. Intermediate to expert skiers can challenge themselves by attempting the “The White Ring,” which is a way of skiing from Lech to Zurs, and is celebrated annually via a race along the route. This race is the longest ski race in the world, spanning 13 miles over nearly 18,000 feet. However, the best way to do “The White Ring” or Der Weisse Ring, is to tour the many on-mountain restaurants and bars along the way, essentially tasting and drinking your way around.

Beginner Skiing in Lech

There are plenty of opportunities for newbies to dip their toes into the world of Austrian skiing. The Oberlech ski area makes the Lech beginner skiing exceptional. Oberlech features a designated “learn to ski zone,” and when it’s time to move onto longer, green runs, this area, in particular, offers perfect, progressive terrain. Few resorts can cater to beginners like Lech can.

Looking at a trail map, it becomes clear that the Lech intermediate skiing dominates the ski area. The tamest intermediate terrain can be found in the Oberlech area. The runs are perfectly groomed and build confidence in less-seasoned intermediates. More confident intermediates have their run of Lech, and Zurs for that matter. Much of the Lech’s more difficult terrain can easily be tackled by advanced intermediates, including the high-alpine bowl skiing off of Steinmahder chairlift, which is accessible by both Lech and the Zug area. Zurs has a majority of red terrain and is an advanced intermediate heaven on earth.

Ski School Programs

Lech, Austria, offers an exceptional ski school experience for all levels and ages. With a rich history in Alpine skiing, the local ski schools provide world-class instruction, boasting over 500 highly trained and certified snow sports instructors. The resort also features specialized programs for children starting at four and a half years old, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning environment. Beyond skiing, the schools offer lessons in snowboarding, cross-country skiing, telemark skiing and even thrilling heliskiing adventures.

Family Vacation in Lech

Lech’s Oberlech region is home to a kids’ club, making it an ideal place for a family ski vacation. The runs are gentle and short and offer terrain perfect for progressing to more challenging green and blue runs. Families also love Lech’s many kid-friendly activities, like the long toboggan run from Oberlech to Lech.

The area turns into a wonderful winter playground for children. Build an igloo, drink hot chocolate and spend hours exploring the engaging slopes. Lech also offers horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice skating and tobogganing. If you’re looking to book a special experience with your family, be sure and chat with your Mountain Travel Expert.