Lech Zürs am Arlberg

Lech and Zürs are exclusive ski resorts that will satisfy even the most demanding guests. Excellent snow conditions, extensive slopes and top-class accommodation attract mainly well-heeled visitors who value the high standards and prestige of the ski resorts in this corner of the Alps. Lech and Zürs are part of the large and well-known Arlberg ski region, which also includes St. Anton, St. Christof and Stuben, on the other side of the Valluga massif in Tyrol. Although all these ski areas are covered by a joint ski pass, Lech and Zürs have no ski link with the resorts in Tyrol. The only way to reach the other side of the Valluga massif is by ski bus. The ski areas here offer a wide variety of pistes, perfectly groomed slopes and a modern lift network. Advanced skiers have plenty of demanding pistes to choose from, including race courses with timing. Freeriders can also explore extensive off-piste terrain. Intermediates have numerous runs above Lech, both lower down among the trees and above the tree line. Beginners will also find good conditions for improving their skills. The gentle slopes around Oberlech are ideal for learning, and the Lech, Oberlech and Zürs ski schools each have their own practice areas. Compared with what alpine skiers get here, the offer for cross-country skiers is rather modest: about 20 km of trails, 15 km of which is a scenic intermediate trail from Lech through the Zug valley to the hamlet of Älpele. The range of other sports, on the other hand, is wide: paragliding, balloon flights, toboggan runs, ice rinks, horse-drawn sleigh rides and a whole range of indoor sports, among others. For most visitors to the Arlberg, a winter holiday here is not complete without a taste of the snobbish atmosphere of the local bars, clubs and restaurants. The places people go mainly to be seen are the bars of the exclusive Krone and Burg hotels in Oberlech. Well-heeled visitors can tour the fashionable and expensive shops in Lech.