The season usually starts at the beginning of December and ends in mid/late April, depending on snow conditions.
Unforgettable highlights in the snow
Winter magic in Lech in the Arlberg region
When the first snowflakes cover the peaks of the Arlberg, Lech transforms into a world of tranquillity, elegance and alpine energy. This traditional mountain village combines authenticity, luxury and warmth in a unique way.
Winter sports meets enjoyment in Lech
In winter, Lech becomes synonymous with joie de vivre: whether on over 300 kilometres of slopes, winter hiking or relaxing in the spa with panoramic views. Sporting moments and culinary delights go hand in hand here. International music festivals and gourmet events provide additional cultural highlights.
And right in the middle of it all: the Lech Lodge – stylish, private, personal. Your retreat for a winter to remember.
Highlights
in Winter
'The White Ring'
the race
The Weiße Ring is not only one of the most legendary ski circuits in the Alps, but also the venue for a unique ski race. Professionals and amateur athletes compete on over 22 kilometres of slopes in this traditional race, which takes place every January. The route connects the villages of Lech, Zürs, Zug and Oberlech – and demands not only stamina but also technique from the participants. Up to 1,000 starters take part every year. The event is particularly appealing due to its mixture of sporting competition and alpine folk festival.
Spectators enjoy the atmosphere along the route or at the finish line in the centre of Lech. After the race, there are numerous side events, parties and award ceremonies. The backdrop of the winter mountains adds a magical touch to the whole event. Anyone wishing to take part must register early – starting places are in high demand. The spectacle is also a real highlight in January for visitors.
Fantastic Gondolas
Art & music above the clouds
An event like no other: Fantastic Gondolas transforms the Rüfikopf gondolas into floating art and music spaces. International DJs, VJs and light artists fill the gondolas and mountain station with audiovisual installations, light art and electronic music. The event combines modern nightlife with an alpine atmosphere – futuristic and fascinating at the same time.
Guests glide through the winter sky at night while the mountains are bathed in coloured light. Inside, beats and creative visuals pulsate. In addition to the gondolas, there are also performances at the mountain station, the Skyspace Lech and on the slopes. The audience is young, style-conscious and international. Fantastic Gondolas is a real insider tip for art and music lovers. Anyone who wants to experience Lech from its experimental, creative side should make a note of this event.
Christmas in the mountains
Advent in Lech
In the run-up to Christmas, Lech is transformed into a winter wonderland. The scent of cinnamon, pine resin and mulled wine fills the air, while the Advent market glows atmospherically. Regional craftsmanship, culinary specialities and music create a contemplative atmosphere. The highlight is the festive opening of the market with choirs and a torchlight procession.
Children enjoy pony rides, craft stations and a visit from St. Nicholas. Lech also has a lot to offer culturally during Advent – from Advent concerts to readings in the old schoolhouse. The combination of alpine winter scenery and traditional customs makes this event unique. Away from the hustle and bustle, romantic winter hiking trails, horse-drawn sleigh rides and evenings by the fireplace invite you to slow down. For many of our regular guests, the Advent season in Lech is the real insider tip among the winter months.
Arlberg vineyard
gourmet & wine
At Arlberg Weinberg, everything revolves around fine dining: wine, culinary delights and top-class cuisine come together in Lech to create an exclusive event. Winemakers from all over Europe present their finest wines – from natural wines to Burgundy and champagne. Top chefs from Austria and beyond cook up a storm – often in creative pairings or as part of themed evenings.
Workshops, tastings and gala dinners round off the programme. A special highlight is Wine & Dine in small, personal groups directly at the winemakers' premises. The stylish locations – from luxury hotels to ski huts – provide the perfect ambience. This event is a must for gourmets and wine lovers. It is not just a tasting, but a cultural experience of the highest standard. Those who want to combine enjoyment with alpine flair will be spoiled here.
Arlberg Dance-Café
music festival
The Tanzcafé Arlberg Music Festival is the lively finale to the winter season. Musicians from a wide variety of genres perform at various locations, from ski huts to open-air stages. Swing, jazz, electro, funk and soul create a relaxed festival atmosphere in the snow.
The afternoon concerts on the sun terraces of the mountain huts are particularly popular. Here, skiers dance in their ski boots while the last rays of sunshine bathe the slopes in golden light. The atmosphere is exuberant, stylish and warm. The festival attracts a young, international audience – and is also family-friendly. With free concerts, DJ sets and culinary specials, every visit is an experience. The perfect mix of music, spring and alpine lifestyle. Simply legendary.
Culinary highlights
Lech in Winter
Winter in Lech leaves you wanting more – more sophistication, more regionality and more genuine passion. Gourmets will find a culinary richness here that is unrivalled in the Alps. From rustic huts serving traditional classics such as Käsknöpfle and Tiroler Gröstl to internationally acclaimed fine dining in over 20 gourmet restaurants, there is something for every palate here.
Lech is particularly well known for its Michelin-starred gastronomy: restaurants such as the ‘Post Lech’ offer regional ingredients at a world-class level. The hotels' wine cellars are well stocked with top Austrian and international wines – no wonder that events such as the Arlberg Weinberg
take place here. Those who take a break on the slopes at lunchtime can enjoy classics such as Wiener Schnitzel, truffle pasta or Kaiserschmarrn on the sun terraces – often accompanied by chilled music and a glass of champagne. Culinary delights in Lech are not just a necessity – they are an experience.
Spa, wellness & alpine tranquillity
relaxation
In addition to sporting activities, our Lech lodges also offer the perfect setting for deep relaxation. The clear mountain air, the tranquillity of nature and our in-house, first-class wellness facilities make this place a refuge for body and soul. Our lodges therefore feature exclusive spa areas with saunas and steam baths overlooking the winter landscape.
Massages with alpine oils, herbal treatments and cosmetic treatments of the highest standard invite you to escape everyday life. Particularly soothing: a bath in warm water while the snow falls softly outside – an experience you will never forget.
Family winter in Lech
unforgettable together
Lech is a paradise for families: safe slopes, excellent ski schools and experienced instructors ensure that children learn to ski in a playful way. Away from the slopes, toboggan runs, horse-drawn sleighs and ice rinks await – perfect conditions for shared experiences and relaxed parents.
Your retreat: the Lech Lodge
If you are looking for privacy, style and personal service, the Lech Lodge is the ideal winter home. This modern Alpine hideaway is in a quiet location with direct access to the slopes and can accommodate up to 25 people – ideal for families, friends or small teams. High-quality materials, a fireplace, kitchen and private wellness areas create a cosy atmosphere. The concierge service takes care of everything else: from ski instructors to private dinners.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ
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When does the ski season start in Lech?
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Are there ski passes for multiple ski areas?
Yes, the Ski Arlberg pass covers all lifts in Lech, Zürs, St. Anton, St. Christoph and Warth-Schröcken.
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Is Lech suitable for beginners?
Absolutely – there are many wide, easy slopes as well as professional ski schools for adults and children.
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Can I hire ski equipment on site?
Yes, numerous sports shops offer modern equipment for hire – delivered directly to Lech Lodge on request.
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Are there also activities for non-skiers?
Yes, winter hiking, cross-country skiing, wellness, shopping, cultural events and culinary delights are also enjoyable without skiing.