Lech

Known as ‘The cradle of Alpine skiing,’ Lech holds a special place in skiing history. It was among the first Alpine ski villages, with Telemark skiers on ‘Nordic Planks’ gracing its slopes as early as the 1890s—15 years before Alpine skiing as we know it was even invented. Over the past century, Lech has quietly transformed into one of the world’s premier ski resorts, boasting a clientele that includes several European royals. Remarkably, it has achieved this level of prestige without fanfare, maintaining an understated charm. Today, the village draws discerning visitors to its more than 66 four- and five-star hotels—twice as many as St Moritz—while remaining a hidden gem for many.

Lech is perfectly situated in the heart of the expansive Arlberg ski area, Austria’s largest skiing region. With over 300km of groomed pistes and 200km of marked powder runs, Arlberg is a paradise for skiers seeking diverse terrains and exceptional snow conditions. The area averages a remarkable 9 meters of snowfall annually, and with 70% of its slopes covered by snow cannons, consistent skiing is guaranteed. Renowned for its thrilling off-piste opportunities, it’s an ideal destination for intermediate to expert skiers. The Arlberg region is also home to the lively St. Anton resort, famous for its vibrant après-ski scene, offering visitors a mix of adventure and entertainment.

Lech isn’t just synonymous with world-class skiing—it has also been home to greatness. The resort has produced four Olympic gold medalists, including the celebrated Patrick Ortlieb, who also won the 1992 World Championship. Austria’s first-ever ski school course was hosted here in 1906, attended by the legendary Hannes Schneider, cementing Lech’s status as a hub of skiing excellence.

Despite its cosmopolitan appeal, Lech has retained its authentic charm. The village remains largely owned by its original families, with its centerpiece being the historic square-towered church crowned with an onion dome. This dedication to preserving tradition extends to the pristine environment; the mountain streams here remain so pure that their water is drinkable—though visitors needn’t bother, as the tap water is already mineral-rich.

The wider Lech region includes the charming villages of Zug, Stubenbach, and the ultra-exclusive Zürs, as well as the car-free enclave of Oberlech (1,660m). Oberlech is accessible by cable car from the main village and offers true ski-in, ski-out convenience. Guests can reach their accommodations via underground tunnels from the top cable car station, eliminating the need to trudge through snow—a thoughtful touch that sets Oberlech apart from other traffic-free resorts.

Whether you’re drawn by the exceptional skiing, the rich history, or the serene Alpine atmosphere, Lech remains an extraordinary destination that seamlessly blends tradition, luxury, and adventure.

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