Special Feature
Lech itself is an attractive village occupying a high, sunny valley in a quiet corner of the mighty Arlberg ski region. Accessed via the precarious Flexen Pass from Zurs, this old farming village is characterised by traditional chalet-style hotels and has a pollution free river running through it that also continues to flow during the winter. Its excellent snow record and high sunny slopes are particularly good for intermediate and beginner skiers. The “Arlberg Pass” also covers the neighbouring resorts of St. Christoph, Stuben and the “party” resort of St. Anton. For the “powder hounds” there is extensive off-piste skiing to explore, as well as over 20km of cross country skiing trails in Lech alone. Adventure seekers can try skiing the famous ‘White Ring’ route — a 22km on-piste circuit of red and blue runs that takes in stunning scenery as you traverse the slopes around Lech, Oberlech, Zug and Zurs — highly recommended on a late-season sunny afternoon, although go easy on the alcohol on the way back to the village! Heated chairlifts and smart hotels make Lech a comfortable, upmarket choice, perfect for couples, and there is a lively après-ski scene too, centred around a number of hotels in the heart of the village. It’s fair to say that if you are looking for a cheap, alcohol-soaked ski break, then Lech is not for you; stick to Andorra and some of the other Austrian resorts like Soll. Lech and its sister resort Zurs — which is just up the road and at a little higher elevation, really are for the ski connoisseur — those who appreciate sumptuous hotels, fine wine and Michelin star quality food in a stunning setting. One particular hotel that we would personally recommend in Lech is the 4* Superior Hotel Der Berghof which is the first hotel in Austria to be included in the exclusive “Châteaux & Hôtels Collection” whose members characterise particular charm, character and exclusivity; a certain “’je ne sais quoi’ that leaves an unforgettable impression”, remarks Isabelle Burger — proprietor of the Berghof.
The hotel is located right at the heart of the village and just a stone’s throw from both main ski lifts, the boutique shops in the small shopping centre and some cosy bars like the hip Fux bar where you can enjoy a well earned glass of Champagne after an evening walk in the crisp mountain air. The hotel boasts an elegant Spa & Beauty centre for a sensual pampering experience and facilities which include; a steam bath, a Finnish sauna and bio-sauna, infrared treatment, cold water and kneipp-basins, warm beds, a relaxation area, sauna drinks and tea bar, a fitness area and gym room. With only 57 rooms, it is not too large and impersonal. A particular stand out feature of the hotel is the cuisine and after a hard day working the old leg muscles on the slopes, it is particularly enjoyable to indulge in the Berghof’s six course gourmet menu complemented by a selection of fine wines. When the day comes to an end and your appetite is suitably sated, a fire is already crackling in the Berghof bar. In this cosy atmosphere a rich selection of whiskeys, cognacs and wines are offered — no doubt helping you regale your friends with tales of the day’s ski adventures! For visitors old and new to Lech, we cannot recommend highly enough that the Der Berghof hotel be allowed to indulge you during your ski holiday.
Visit www.derberghof.at to learn more about the hotel and www.lechzuers.com for more info about Lech & Zurs.
84 | www.financial-spread-betting.com | December 2012