Lech and its higher neighbor Zürs are the most glamorous resorts in Austria.

Lech is part of the Arlberg area of five ski resorts.

The Arlberg is considered to be a legend. Why? The answers lie in the history of this extensive ski region. It is full of historical milestones and outstanding personalities. 190 miles of ski runs, Austria’s largest interlinked ski area, fifth in the global rankings. Combined with almost 125 miles of backcountry terrain. A formidable choice for skiers, and one that has acquired a worldwide following over the decades. Especially in avant-garde ski circles, the Arlberg is considered to be a “once in a lifetime destination”.

The five classic destinations of Lech, St. Anton, St. Christoph, Stuben, and have written yet another chapter in ski history. Thanks to four new lift systems opening in December 2016, they now form Austria’s largest interlinked ski area.

The rise to being Austria’s No. 1 ski resort and No. 5 worldwide is the logical consequence of a collective desire for the Arlberg region. The respective characters of Lech, Zürs, Stuben, St. Christoph and St. Anton am Arlberg may be different, but their enthusiasm for skiing and uncompromising commitment to quality have united the five villages since the beginning of the 20th Century. The ski culture has been ever-present for almost 100 years. The region owes its status as “Birthplace of Alpine Skiing” to a long and rich tradition. A common dream was shared by the people on the east and the west of Arlberg; one of closing the “missing ski connection links” between all five classic Arlberg villages. With the construction of the new Flexenbahn lift between Zürs and Stuben/Alpe Rauz, the Trittkopfbahn I and II, as well as the Albonabahn II, this vision recently turned into reality.

The entire area is considered to be one of the most snow-sure locations in the Alps and the ski season is accordingly long. Thanks to favorable altitudes of between 4,200 ft and 9,200 ft above sea level, the mountains here are dominated by winter conditions from November to May. Pleasure skiers savor the “firn” and powder snow slopes on both sides of the pass until late spring. The abundance of snow is fortuitous. Its quality is also a deciding factor in Arlberg’s global reputation.

Lech was recognized as being Europe’s most beautiful village by “Entente Florale“ in 2004. This accolade is mainly due to its residents’ careful handling of the local image and its resources. The church is still the tallest building in the village and, despite all Lech’s cosmopolitan flair, the focus has always been on quality, not quantity. As in the case of Oberlech, the village’s sunny “terrace”. This sub-district of Lech is completely car-free in winter. Deliveries and connections to the village take place underground via tunnels. European aristocracy and international stars appreciate the strikingly elegant, mountain village character just as much as being able to choose from the highest density of award-winning restaurants in Austria in this “World Gourmet Village”. The hotels – half of which are in the 4 and 5 star category – and restaurants excel with glowing reviews, both in the village as well as on the slopes. The White Ring – The Race, is an annual highlight which attracts over 1,000 participants to its eponymous ski route.