Lech am Arlberg is a beautiful mountain village and an exclusive ski resort situated on the banks of the river Lech. In recent years Lech has grown to become one of the world's premier luxury ski destinations and the home to a number of world and Olympic ski champions and is a popular destination for royals and the Hollywood set. Lech boasts some of the Alps best ski conditions.
This old farming village developed into a ski resort in the early years of the 20th century and its amazing snow record means that it is always a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The village is very pretty and the centre is quite compact, with the main lifts to Zurs and to Oberlech easily accessible.
Lech and the neighbouring village of Zurs are found at the top of the high Flexen Valley and until the roads were built in the late 19th century, were cut off from the rest of the world. Lech is the larger village and is built along the banks of the river Lech, and it was originally known as Tannberg am Lech. Walser migrants who came over the mountains from Wallis in Switzerland founded the village in the 14th century.
Lech is perfect for the fair-weather skier who enjoys the après ski and the chic feel of the resort as much as the time actually spent on the snow. It is a firm favourite with the wealthy and celebrities, and for that reason prices may be higher than in other resorts.
The lift infrastructure and network of slopes on offer is of the highest order though, and most skiers and boarders will find something to suit. Whilst it is difficult to fault the skiing, the car traffic in the centre of resort seems out of place and does slightly detract from the otherwise picture-postcard appeal. Make no mistake though, Lech is beautiful and rightfully takes its place in the elite ‘Best of the Alps’ club of ski resorts. The chocolate box architecture and stunning views will take your breath away.