The twin villages of Lech & Zurs in the Austrian Alps are a favourite winter destination for luxury travellers – and we love it too! Well who doesn’t like some of the best slopes in Europe, and then after a day’s skiing, rubbing shoulders with the beautiful people, A-Listers, (and those quirky Euro Royals) during après ski? writes Andrew Forbes
Yet, it’s not all just about snow, ski and schnapps – Lech-Zurs is also emerging as the go-to summer destination to escape the crowds, be surrounded by idyllic nature, whilst still having access to some of Europe’s best hotels, stylish restaurants and quaint alpine bars.
So here’s our short break guide to this beautiful Austrian alpine village.
Where to Sleep
Hotel Gotthard
For a warm, friendly alpine welcome we think you can’t get better than this stylish hotel – with private gardens, a wellness area, an onsite bakery, restaurants and a tempting café selling the best baked goods in town! Accommodation is in generously-sized rooms, many with balconies.
Read our spotlight review here.
Lech Chalet
For that movie star experience, take one of Lech’s private chalets for the ultimate exclusive stay. Lech Lodge offers a selection of picture-perfect alpine chalets with exceptional attention to detail.
Hotel Almhof Schneider
With direct access to the Schlegelkopf Mountain, and close to the village this 5 star hotel was a favourite of Princess Diana.
What to Do
Golf Club Lech
The Luxury Editor was amongst the first international visitors to experience this new course, the highest golf course in Austria. Clemens Walch is co-Founder and the President of the 9 hole Lech Golf Club, so Hotel Gotthard offers special golf packages for summer guests together with a comprehensive Golf Butler Service. The hotel also partners with golf pro Michael Coventon, PGA AA, and his colleague Heiner Neubaur at Iconic Golf, who operate the Golf Academy and offer tuition.
Hiking
During summer Lech-Zurs’ ‘White Ring’ of ski pistes is transformed into a verdant ‘Green Ring’ of interconnected alpine hiking routes. Bjorn is the Hotel Gotthard’s professional mountain guide who is available to take guests on stunning walks. More details of hiking routes, focusing on themes of history, culture, cuisine etc. can be found on the official tourist website.
Mountain Bikes
No need to take your bike – the latest models, and equipment are available from ‘Strolz on Rüfiplatz’ is a chic store in the village centre
Cultural Festivals
Throughout the summer and early autumn one can enjoy a series of cultural events. Details on the local tourism websites.
www.vorarlberg.travel
Spa Wellness
Enjoy an authentic Austrian sauna or a relaxing swim at the wellness centre at the Hotel Gotthard. Outside is a beautiful alpine garden for sunbathing.
Where to Eat & Drink
Schualhus
Uber-stylish yet informal bar, cafe and restaurant in Zug, the hamlet next to Lech – found in an historic former school house.
Hüs Nr. 8
Eat within a historic alpine cottage. Low ceilings and honey-coloured timber walls give each space a cosy feel. Enjoy here hearty Austrian country cuisine like ‘Gröstl’ (delicious potatoes with black pudding served in a large iron pan), or ‘Käsespätzle’ (soft egg noodles served with cheese and fried onions – like a very tasty version of Mac ‘n’ Cheese).
The bar is a friendly and lively place to share a late night drink.
Lecher Stube Restaurant
Here your hosts will be husband and wife team Werner & Sara Müllner, offering classic Austrian dishes like ‘Wiener Schnitzel’, as well as contemporary-style plates.
Fischteich Restaurant
Visit this quaint log cabin beside fresh water fish lakes in Zug for the freshest mountain fish. Owner Andy Mittermayer and his team make you feel welcome and will help you with the menu.
Baristro Café Bar
Trendy coffee shop and bar on the village square by the cable car. Order the hot chocolate – it’s so good!
Cocktails and Beers
Enjoy the last of the day’s warm rays on the alfresco terraces of Hotel Tannbergerhof or Hotel Krone.
