Lech, Austria Ski Guide: The Luxury Ski Destination We Keep Coming Back To
- Natasha Villaroman
- Nov 13, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 20
Picture this: skiing across 305 kilometers of powdery white snow surrounded by jaw-dropping Alpine mountains.
Welcome to Lech, Austria – a breathtaking alpine village nestled in the heart of the Arlberg region.
There’s something about Lech, Austria, that keeps pulling us back, year after year. Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, this world-class ski resort isn’t just about perfectly groomed slopes—it’s about luxury, tradition, and an exclusive Alpine experience that few places can match.
This season marks my fourth consecutive year skiing here (a family tradition!), and I’m so excited to share everything this magical place has to offer!
Here is the full video of my Lech Austria vlog on my channel for your viewing pleasure. But if you prefer reading, I also included some links below. Enjoy!
Getting to Lech
Lech is easily accessible by car or public transport. This year, my family and I traveled from Zagreb, Croatia, making the journey a scenic but lengthy road trip.
If you’re flying, nearby airports include:
Zurich Airport (190 km)
Munich Airport (300 km)
Innsbruck Airport (94 km)
From these hubs, direct buses or transfers will bring you right into the village, making Lech surprisingly accessible.
About Lech
Lech is located in a picturesque valley within the Ski Arlberg region, one of the largest connected ski areas in the world.
The village beautifully blends tradition and modernity, with charming wooden chalets, a historic church, and luxury boutiques like Cartier and Strolz lining its streets.
Famous for its opulence, Lech has attracted European royals and celebrities for decades. Princess Diana, for example, stayed here for five consecutive years.
Today, some of the accommodations come with a royal price tag—a week-long stay at her favorite hotel Arlberg can cost around €15,000 per room!
Skiing in Lech
Lech’s slopes are part of the legendary Ski Arlberg region, offering:
305 kilometers of ski runs
200 kilometers of off-piste terrain
Ski Pass Costs
Here's where you can buy the Ski Arlberg pass. As of 2025, the pass costs costs €78 per day.
While it’s an investment, it’s more affordable compared to popular U.S. resorts like Vail or Aspen, where lift tickets can cost over $200 per day.
Considering the variety of slopes and the luxury experience, it’s excellent value for money.
Historical Highlights
Lech is one of Austria’s oldest ski resorts and is famously known as the birthplace of Alpine skiing.
It’s also home to the world’s first heated chairlift, a modern luxury that ensures you stay warm as you enjoy the stunning Alpine scenery.
Slopes for Every Skill Level
43% blue runs (for beginners)
40% red runs (for intermediates)
17% black runs (for experts)
Iconic Ski Circuits
Lech features two famous circuits:
The White Ring – A 22-kilometer loop connecting Lech, Zürs, Zug, and Oberlech, with an altitude difference of 5,500 meters. It’s also the site of an annual ski race in January.
The Run of Fame – An 85-kilometer circuit stretching across the entire Ski Arlberg region. Nicknamed “The Run of Shame” due to the number of lifts required, it’s the ultimate challenge for avid skiers.
Dining and Apres-Ski in Lech
After hours on the slopes, Lech offers exceptional dining options and vibrant apres-ski experiences:
Top Dining Spots
The Wolf – Gourmet dining with stunning panoramic views. Sip hot chocolate while soaking in the scenery.
Rud-Alpe – A cozy, rustic hut with great food and breathtaking views, perfect for refueling after an active day.
The Yurt – Located outside the Arlberg Hotel, this Kyrgyz-inspired handmade yurt is a trendy bar and event space with a unique vibe and warm hospitality. We love coming here!
Non-Skiing Activities
Lech is not just for skiers. The village is incredibly family-friendly, offering activities like sledding and scenic winter walks that make it ideal for visitors of all ages.
Conclusion
Whether you’re here for the world-class skiing, the luxurious amenities, or simply to soak in the charm of this stunning Alpine village, Lech has something for everyone.
If you’ve fallen in love with its magic, don’t worry—there’s always next season to come back for more.
Thank you for reading, and I’ll see you again soon. Ingat!