Discover Lech: The Ultimate Alpine Getaway
Diana famously skied here with the Princes, the Dutch royal family religiously jet here for their annual winter break, and there’s generally more Fusalp than Fendi dotting the wide, cruisey slopes. Even as the most upmarket of the Arlberg ski area villages, the resort of Lech remains gloriously understated or, as loyalists whisper, old money. The Austrian-Alpine village has successfully kept the bling at bay with low-key cafés, quietly sophisticated restaurants, and gnarled timber chalets – their windows decorated with those Heidi-country pastels swirls.
The boozier, less sophisticated St Anton is linked to Lech’s generously snowy ski area, as is nearby Zurs. However, adrenaline-seekers must take the gondola to Warth-Schröcken’s black runs. It’s wise to embark on off-piste adventures with a guide, as avalanches aren’t uncommon here, and beginners may struggle on the mogul-carpeted, slushy lower slopes after a gluhwein-fueled lunch.
The resort caters to those who can ski, but who’d rather whoosh down pistes while savoring hot chocolates and cold beers than seek out that thigh-busting high. And while you won’t find the same mountain madcappery here as in St Moritz or Verbier, you can expect plenty of Schnitzel lunches on sunny terraces and warm apfelstrudel back at base. Lunch is taken seriously – Rud-Alpe’s Schnitzel and warm apple strudels lure in punters as soon as the mid-morning hot chocolates wear off, while comforting meats and cheese fondues await back in town at the cozy tavern, Hus Nr 8, and The Stube, the Alberg Hotel’s classic, much-loved restaurant.
The Best Hotels and Ski Chalets in Lech
Pepper Collection, Hotel Aurelio
Considered one of Lech’s finest stays, the Pepper Collection perches over Lech Am Alberg. Comprising a large hotel (Aurelio), a chalet connected by a futuristic underground tunnel, and separate chalets that are booked out in their entirety, the layout accommodates most types of travelers. The heart of the contemporary-classic ski hotel is its roaring fireplace, topped by enormous antlers, and an impressive restaurant, where chefs showcase the region’s bounty with culinary gusto. Expect knockout dishes such as local Wagyu beef with pepper ravioli, Black Cod with fennel and rösti pralines, and Wiener Schnitzel of local veal with lingonberries. Evenings can begin with Veuve Clicquot before exploring various European wines, from French classics such as Bourgogne Chardonnay to Austrian reds.
Rooms differ from chalet to chalet, offering a blend of traditional rustic woods transformed into a cozy atmosphere, with impossibly deep baths providing comfort between the slopes and supper. However, it’s the spa that truly sets Aurelio apart. A vast, brutalist-styled pool takes advantage of natural light, lined with cushioned loungers, and complemented by a sauna, steam room, cold water plunge pool, and jacuzzi. It’s the perfect place for skiers to unwind after a thigh-busting day on the slopes. Round off your experience with a full body massage or a facial to alleviate any gluhwein and cheese-induced puff.
Arula Chalets
Arula Chalets offer a unique blend of luxury and comfort, providing an exceptional ski experience in Lech. Each chalet is designed with an emphasis on traditional alpine aesthetics while incorporating modern amenities for a cozy yet elegant stay. Guests can retreat to their private spaces after a long day on the slopes, finding comfort in exquisite interiors and stunning mountain views. The chalets are also conveniently located, allowing easy access to the ski lifts and local dining options.
