Snow-covered trees in a misty forestSnow-covered trees in a misty forest

A complete guide to Lech

Everything you need for your Lech ski holiday.
24th April, 2025
5 min read time

Nestled in the Austrian Vorarlberg, Lech stands out as a beacon of luxury amid the majestic Alps. Catering to a diverse array of winter sports enthusiasts, from families to freeriders, Lech offers a fulfilling experience for every visitor. As one of the top Austrian ski resorts, Lech promises both elegance and adventure.

We've put this practical guide together to make planning your Lech ski holiday a breeze. You'll learn everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best places to grab a bite or relax after skiing. At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.

Ready to jump in? Let's get started!

Lech, Austria - overview

  1. Where is Lech?
  2. Lech the resort
  3. Lech and Zürs ski area
  4. Skiing in Lech
  5. Lech ski season dates
  6. Lech snow history
  7. Restaurants in Lech
  8. Things to do in Lech
  9. Lech après-ski, and nightlife
  10. Lech resort map
  11. Lech tourist information

Where is Lech?

Lech is located in the Vorarlberg province in the far west of Austria.


Nearest airport

  • Innsbruck: 116 km (72 mi)

Transfer time

  • Innsbruck: 1hr 34m

Lech the resort

  • Resort altitude: 1,444 m (4,737 ft)
  • Resort permanent residents: ~1,600
Lech is a symbol of exclusivity and luxury. Recognized globally for its impeccable standards, this resort isn't just about pristine ski slopes but is equally famed for its upscale accommodations, gourmet dining, and sophisticated après-ski experiences. Walking through the village, one is greeted by a blend of modernity and tradition, with its fashionable boutiques standing alongside age old wooden chalets and a historic church. Celebrities and royalty, including the Dutch royal family and the late Princess Diana, have been drawn to its charm and elegance, further solidifying its elite status. Yet, despite its international acclaim, Lech retains its authentic alpine essence. Notably, the car-free satellite village of Oberlech, perched above the main resort, offers a tranquil haven especially suited for families, underscored by its dedicated ski kindergarten and cluster of luxurious hotels.
                                                                                                           
ProsCons
Austria's largest ski areaExpensive accommodation
High annual average snowfallNot the easiest place to travel to in bad weather
Great restaurants & après ski activitiesGets busy during sunny days
One lift pass for the whole ski regionLess lively après ski scene compared to St Anton

Here is how Lech looks like

This short video provides a glimpse of everything Lech has to offer.


(Ref: Ski Resort Videos)

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Lech and Zürs ski area

  • Summit elevation: 2,806 m (9,206 ft)
  • Kilometres of pistes: 302 km (187 mi)
  • Vertical drop: 1,506 m (4,940 ft)
  • Ski lifts: 87
Part of the expansive Ski Arlberg area, Lech and Zürs contribute to the region's impressive 302 km (187 mi) of ski runs, comprising 43% blue, 40% red, and 17% black pistes. All these runs are seamlessly connected by 87 lifts and spread across various key areas, including:
  1. Lech: known for its wide, welcoming pistes, Lech is especially popular with intermediates and families. One of its highlights is the challenging Langer Zug run, known for its steep incline.
  2. Zürs: this sector caters primarily to advanced skiers, offering steep and demanding black pistes.
  3. Oberlech: wonderful for families, this sector offers a mix of runs for different skill levels.
  4. Warth-Schröcken: particularly suitable for beginners and families, the slopes here are gentler, perfect for those new to skiing or preferring a more laid-back skiing experience.
  5. St. Christoph & Stuben: a haven for off-piste enthusiasts, the areas here are quieter and offer a chance to explore fresh snow and rugged terrain.

Skiing in Lech

Beginners

Beginners will find gentle blue slopes particularly around Oberlech. The ski school congregates at the base of the Schlegelkopfbahn, ensuring beginners get their first lessons on the right note. As confidence builds, the tranquil blues around Oberlech beckon, allowing a seamless transition to slightly more challenging terrains.

Intermediates

Intermediate skiers will find within the vast expanse of the Ski Arlberg area a plethora of well-groomed blue and red runs. In addition, the Weisse Ring, a stunning 50 km circuit connecting Lech and Zürs, presents a delightful challenge for those seeking it.

Advanced

For those seeking adrenaline, Lech offers challenging terrains, including steep black runs that test even the most experienced. Skiers seeking steep pistes might find Saloberkopf above Warth particularly thrilling.

Off-piste

Lech is an off-piste paradise. With an abundance of deep powder snow, the Madloch descent, spanning a lengthy 5.5 km, is the region's crown jewel. Advanced skiers will revel in the opportunity to navigate this longest powder snow run, complemented by breathtaking alpine views. Moreover, heli-skiing on the Mehlsack and Schneetäli-Orgelscharte summits provides an added dimension of thrill for those willing to experience it.

Lech ski season dates

The ski season in Lech typically runs from early December to late April. While the official 2025/26 opening and closing dates have not yet been confirmed, we’ll update this page as soon as they are announced. Please note that these dates can vary depending on snow conditions and other operational factors. Planning ahead? Don’t forget to check out our Lech Zürs ski deals for the best ski offers available.

Lech snow history

Lech offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 38 cm (14.9 in) and 47 cm (18.5 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.4 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 36 cm (14.1 in), but still averaging 3.4 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the second week of January, traditionally the snowiest week in Lech, with an impressive 65 cm (25.5 in) of snow over 3.3 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 28 cm (11 in) of snow over 2.9 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.


                                                                                                                                                                   
MonthSnow amount (week)Snow days (week)
December38 cm3.4 days
January47 cm3.4 days
February36 cm3.4 days
March37 cm3.6 days
April28 cm2.9 days

(Ref: snow-forecast.com)

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Restaurants in Lech

  • Rud-Alpe: perched up on the mountain, this is a traditional alpine hut, offering hearty Tyrolean dishes.
  • Schlegelkopf: with an extensive menu ranging from local Austrian specialties to international dishes, it's a popular spot to refuel before heading back to the slopes.
  • Haus Nr 8: located in the heart of Lech, it exudes rustic charm with its wooden interiors and a menu full of Austrian classics.
  • Lechtaler Stube: a culinary gem known for its gourmet dishes that combine traditional recipes with a modern twist.
  • Alter Goldener Berg: a historic establishment, offering a rich menu with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
  • Griggeler Stuba: with a menu that boasts both traditional and innovative dishes, it's a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking for a luxurious culinary treat.

Things to do in Lech

  • Curling
  • Horse-drawn carriage rides
  • Indoor ice skating
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Tobogganing
  • Sleigh rides
  • Snowshoe walking
  • Winter walking paths
  • Climbing wall
  • Tennis
  • Gym

Lech après-ski and nightlife

  • Eisbar: an iconic après ski spot pulsating with energy.
  • Schneggarei: a modern alpine lounge, this is a hotspot for both locals and tourists, featuring a spacious terrace and live music.
  • Krone: situated within the Hotel Krone, here you can indulge in a curated selection of wines and spirits, accompanied by gentle live music, and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Tannbergerhof: a historic venue renowned for its vibrant parties and live DJ sets.
  • Archiv: a chic cocktail bar with a vast menu of finely crafted drinks and a plush interior.
  • K.Club: As one of Lech's premier nightclubs, K.Club features top DJs and a state-of-the-art sound system.

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Lech resort map

Lech resort map

Download Lech resort map here

Lech tourist information

  • Tourist office website: Lech Zurs
  • Tourist office phone: +0043.55832161-0
  • For visa & passport travel advice, visit here

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