This Delightful Austrian Village Is Popular with Skiers, Royals, and Culinary Enthusiasts

The Alps boast countless mountain towns, but selecting the perfect one can feel like a Goldilocks dilemma — some are too small, others too large, some lack top-notch hotels, while others fall short on the best slopes. Yet, Austria’s tranquil village of Lech truly shines in every aspect. It's hard to find a visitor who hasn’t been captivated by its allure.

Lech is just a quick 20-minute bus or taxi journey across the mountains from the more famous St. Anton am Arlberg, known as the birthplace of modern skiing. Upon arrival, the village's fairy-tale charm reveals itself instantly: snow softly blanketing wooden chalets; pedestrian-friendly streets and paths meandering through town, crossing rivers and forests; and age-old traditions seamlessly blending with contemporary life.

The village was established by the Walser people from the Swiss canton of Valais around 1300, living peacefully until the advent of ski tourism in the early 20th century. The first lift in Lech was introduced in 1939, and today there are 87 lifts, including gondolas, cable cars, and chairlifts, providing access to the surrounding mountains for adventure seekers of all abilities. Naturally, the skiing is superb, and the town's refined, laid-back atmosphere has turned it into a top destination for discerning travelers. For decades, celebrities and royals have sought its tranquility and privacy: The Dutch royal family has enjoyed ski vacations here every February for over 60 years; Monaco’s Princess Caroline of Hanover, daughter of the late Grace Kelly, is a frequent visitor; and even Princess Diana was known to spend time in the area. 

Beyond those hoping to spot royalty on the slopes, Lech stands out as one of the Alps’ premier culinary destinations. It boasts the highest concentration of award-winning restaurants per capita, far surpassing other ski towns in Austria — Michelin stars and sought-after Gault-Millau points are abundant. Traditional Austrian dishes (like schnitzel and fondue) are available, but Lech’s elevated and remote setting also emphasizes local produce, seasonal ingredients, and foraged delights, making it a unique culinary hotspot among ski towns.

You won’t find a bad meal here. In fact, it’s nearly impossible to have a disappointing experience. Here’s our recommended approach to enjoying your time here. 

Where to Stay in Lech

Hotel Arlberg

In a place like Lech, owner-operated hotels are the heart of the experience, and the luxurious Hotel Arlberg has been part of the Schneider family legacy for generations. It offers all the charm of a traditional Alpine establishment — a cozy Stube restaurant serving fondue and raclette, a half-board option that includes breakfast and dinner, and a wonderful spa and wellness area. Additionally, it features an outdoor pool with stunning mountain views, suites equipped with large soaking tubs, and members of the Schneider family interacting with guests.

Boutique-Hotel Schmelzhof

Establishments like the Schmelzhof are rare in American ski towns, which is unfortunate. Every detail here embodies the essence of Austria, refined through generations of experience. The lobby feels warm and welcoming, resembling a cozy home rather than a cold, impersonal space. A highlight of your stay will be when the owner, Anna, makes her rounds at breakfast, ensuring that each guest feels at home. Each room boasts unique decor, there's a lovely in-house spa, and the hotel bar becomes a vibrant gathering spot for both locals and visitors at night. 

Things to See and Do in Lech

Embrace the local culture.

Though Lech is renowned primarily as a ski destination today, it’s easy to overlook its rich history and cultural heritage that have thrived for centuries. Explore the Old Church of St. Nicholas, constructed in 1390 in Gothic style with an exquisite Rococo interior from the 18th century, or visit the Huber House, built in 1590, which now serves as a museum showcasing life in 16th-century Lech. 

For a more contemporary experience, admirers of James Turrell will be excited to discover that Lech features one of his renowned Skyspaces, an indoor-outdoor immersive light installation with a large opening that reveals the sky. Visit at just the right moment, and you might see delicate snowflakes drifting down from the ceiling — it's a captivating, Instagram-worthy experience that merges nature with modern art.

Hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding.

There’s no wrong way to enjoy skiing in Lech — just hop on the lifts and start exploring — but the renowned White Ring is a straightforward route that winds through the surrounding mountains, providing a panoramic view while connecting the villages of Lech, Zürs, Zug, and Oberlech. This region of Austria is famous for its ‘ski up from one village, ski down into another’ concept, and it boasts one of the largest interconnected ski areas globally. If you need guidance before hitting the slopes, stop by the town's information office, where you can grab a lift map and receive helpful local tips on tackling the mountains. 

Discover activities beyond the slopes.

Even if skiing isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to discover in Lech. Lace up your favorite winter snow boots and explore over 20 miles of trails that connect Lech to the nearby village of Zürs, meandering along gentle streams and through pristine, snow-draped meadows. For those seeking adventure, a thrilling 1.2-kilometer toboggan run between Oberlech and Lech features sharp turns and excitement, along with options for ice skating, curling, and enchanting horse-drawn sleigh rides through the snowy landscape. For more information, check out the Lech Zürs tourism site, and you'll be enjoying your winter wonderland in no time. 

Dining and Drinking in Lech

The Wolf

While great food is essential for any restaurant, it certainly helps when a place has a cool vibe. Enter The Wolf, one of Lech’s charming "huts," conveniently located on the slopes for a coffee break, a snack, or a hearty lunch. The stylish, wood-paneled interior blends local materials with contemporary design, but it’s the beloved classics like the Der Wolf Burger that keep skiers coming back year after year. 

Café Gotthard

While fondue and schnitzel often steal the spotlight in Austrian cuisine, don’t overlook the delightful pastries, especially at Café Gotthard in Lech. Indulge in a variety of cakes, strudels, and pralines, but be sure not to miss the unforgettable krapfen, a doughnut filled with apricot marmalade that's perfect for breakfast or a sweet après-ski treat.

Chef’s Table at Rote Wand

Located in the nearby village of Zug, just minutes from Lech, the Chef’s Table at Rote Wand exemplifies exceptional, chef-inspired cuisine. Set in a historic schoolhouse dating back to 1780, this venue is the creation of acclaimed chef Julian Stieger, whose impressive background includes stints at Eleven Madison Park in New York City and Geranium in Copenhagen. The culinary journey begins with a welcome cocktail and small bites on the ground floor, before guests ascend to the chef’s table, where local, hand-foraged Alpine ingredients are artfully reimagined. For food enthusiasts, this experience is essential — just remember to secure your spot using the online reservation system well ahead of time.

Restaurant at Almhof Schneider 

For nearly a century, the Schneider family has been hosting guests at its Restaurant, renowned for offering one of the finest dining experiences in the area. The spruce-paneled dining room is celebrated as one of the most stunning in the Alps, and the elevated Austrian cuisine consistently impresses. While the food and wine are superb, it's the region’s rich tradition of hospitality that truly enhances the seamless service and makes this destination a standout for memorable dining.