Lech-Zürs 
Austria
In the beautiful region of Arlberg, in the middle of the Austrian Alps, two villages share one ski resort: Lech and Zürs, separated by about five kilometers. The main one is Lech, where the typical small mountain town has been given a touch of sophistication. Founded by Swiss immigrants in the 14th century, it has a picture-postcard medieval church and is sliced by a tributary of the River Danube. Despite its small size, this village is home to the best hotels, restaurants and après-ski bars. Zürs, on the other hand, provides an even quieter experience, which makes it perfect for families. Filled with white buildings with wooden balconies, this charming village is even smaller. The ski area, on the other hand, is by no means small. Largest in Austria, it connects with the nearby St. Anton, adding a total of 303 kilometers of slopes. These are divided into just three levels of difficulty, starting with intermediate. There are still more than 200 kilometers for freeriding, with light and plentiful snow. It is not uncommon for Olympic champions and celebrities to make an appearance on its descents, such as Tom Cruise and members of the European nobility: Princess Diana, Princess Caroline of Monaco and Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands have all skied there. While it it is frequented by the international jet set, the region still maintains a pleasant low-profile climate. These factors, together with the limited number of visitors per day, make the resort one of the most exclusive in Europe.
SEASON
Northern Hemisphere December to April
MONTAIN
Base - 2,465 feet
Top - 9,222 feet
141 SKI RUNS
Lift
88
SERVICES
GASTRONOMY
In the village: A kind of Austrian trattoria, the Almohof Schneider restaurant serves sophisticated dishes with contemporary touches. In the center of Lech, Hagen’s Dorfmetzgerei is one of the city’s best kept secrets. The specialty here is tasty meats, which can be served with corn, chips or vegetables. On the mountain: Owner of a beautiful outdoor terrace, Balmalp is famous mainly for its giant pizza, great for sharing with a group of friends. Much awarded, the Zur Kanne restaurant couldn't have a more varied menu: the options range from risottos and pastas to local dishes and fondues.
WHAT TO DO BEYOND SKIING
Winter activities are really the strong point of Lech Zürs: there are tracks for sledding, skating rinks and snowshoe walks that still bring surprises like deer and deer. In addition, other program options are the museums that tell the history of the region, such as the Huber-Hus Museum and the Walser Musuem. To admire nature, the Valluga Viewing Platform is an observation point at 2,743 meters above sea level and the Skyspace Lech is an art installation that embraces the light of sunrise and sunset.
ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS
The Oberlech Children’s Club and Little Zürs organize games and care for children between 3 and 5 years old. At the Lech Children’s Club, children in the same age group learn to ski or snowboard in a playful way. Families can also enjoy sledging on the track between Oberlech and Lech or on the hill in Zürs.
SHOPPING
In this season, local stores predominate, which are concentrated between Rüfiplatz and the church of Lech. Strolz is unbeatable when it comes to ski equipment. Sagmeister brings together brands such as Prada, Chloè, Valentino and Dolce & Gabbana. At charming Lenai & Linai, you'll find modern reinterpretations of typical Austrian clothing: from wool coats to multicolored purses and fanny packs.
NIGHT LIFE
In Lech, the Fux Lounge and the Schlegelkopf are good options for a drink after a day in the mountains. The village also has the K-Club, the best club in the region. In Zürs, Trittalpe Berghaus has DJs and live bands during après-ski.
HOW TO GET HERE
MAP
Lodging Options
Hotel & Chalet Aurelio
The Aurelio offers contemporary décor and spacious accommodations from 452 sq.ft in this boutique-style hotel. In addition to the rooms, it is possible to rent a complete chalet for up to 16 people! The hotel includes ski-in/ski-out access, a luxurious spa with pool, beauty services, a fitness center, award-winning restaurants,…
Hotel Gasthof Post Lech
The traditional Gasthof Post, with its 46 rooms and suites, is located in the heart of the famous Lech ski resort. The Moosbrugger Family has owned the hotel since 1937. The five-star hotel has also been a member of the select group of Relais & Châteaux hotels for more than…
Kristiania Lech Hotel
A chocolate-box Chalet with stunning views over the village of Lech in Austria’s famous Arlberg ski area, the Kristiania Lech strives to be more a private residence than a hotel, specializing in understated luxury and customized service with an unbeatable attention to detail. Contemporary works of art change with the…
Thurnher’s Alpenhof
Thurnher’s Alpenhof – an alpine chalet hotel – extravagant, luxurious and of incomparable charm. Thurnher’s Alpenhof, a pearl of hospitality hidden in the Austrian Alps, combines cosmopolitan chic with cozy charm. The warmth of the owning family is reflected in the personal care extended to each guest. Rooms and suites…
