Ski Arlberg is the snow mecca of the Alps
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Ski Arlberg is among the most extensive and snow-sure ski resorts in Austria. The area features challenging slopes, bustling après-ski, and a combination of sporty and traditional villages. Each year, many winter sports enthusiasts from all over the world celebrate their holidays in Ski Arlberg, and this year it was our turn.
With almost 310 kilometers (192 miles) of slopes, it is by far the largest continuous ski area in Austria. The area is also super snow-reliable, due to its location in a so-called "Schneeloch," where much more snow falls than in surrounding areas. The condition of the slopes is usually excellent, and valley runs are possible in every season. The villages themselves are almost all located at 1300 meters (4265 ft) or higher.
The region includes the famous villages of Lech, Oberlech, Zürs, Stuben, St. Christoph, St. Anton, and Flirsch. If you are a novice skier or snowboarder, Lech and Zürs are the places to go, while St. Anton am Arlberg offers exciting challenges for the experienced skier. In Flirsch am Arlberg, you will find a ski lift for beginners and intermediates, which is especially suitable for children. With the ski bus service, you can easily discover the other parts of this ski area.
At the foot of the Arlberg Pass lies St. Anton am Arlberg, a lively village with international allure. The European jet-set likes to show themselves here, and the many exclusive hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars in the partially car-free center form a buzzy whole. In the center of the village, you will also have many après-ski options where there are regular live performances, and for the late evening, there are several nightclubs.
We decided to stay in Lech, which is a lot quieter. This town is very popular with more sophisticated families, like the Dutch royal family and famous world stars. Despite the large number of very luxurious hotels, Lech has certainly retained its traditional Austrian charm. But Lech's greatest attraction is, of course, the wonderful ski area. The views you have from the descents in Lech are very spectacular.
Where to stay
We always try to look for a sustainable travel option when picking a place to stay. This time we came across Hotel Arlberg in Lech., which has taken steps to provide more sustainable and eco-friendly travel. It ended up being an excellent pick. The location is in the middle of Lech but still with a bit of distance from the street.
It's a beautiful house in alpine style with amazing mountain views. The staff was exceptionally friendly, and we enjoyed the restaurant a lot.
Ski tours in Ski Arlberg
The size of the area makes it ideal for long tours. The most famous is the "Run of Fame." Officially, it starts and finishes in the town of Warth in the north of the area, but you can start this tour at various places. The route is indicated with clear information boards.
In total, you will cover 85 kilometers (53 miles) during the “Run of Fame” without having to take a track twice. As an average skier, count on a full day of intensive skiing to finish this tour. Due to a few difficult connecting lifts with little capacity, you can have long waiting times at some points. It is, therefore, advisable to start early.
How to get there
Of course you can fly and drive to Ski Alberg, but then you have to cross the busy Fernpass. Certainly on weekends in high season and in case of snowfall, it can take you hours due to traffic jams.
If you really want to arrive relaxed in Sankt Anton, you can consider taking the train. Asides that its the more sustainable option, it is also super convenient. The underground train station is situated in the middle of the village, close to the hotels and the ski lifts.