So if you don’t fancy speeding down a slope on skis, re-enacting the scene from Bridget Jone’s diary in Lech. Perhaps summer is the best time to visit Lech. Although renowned for it’s winter ski season, summer has to be one of the most beautiful times of year to explore the alternate activities Lech, has on offer. In full bloom, it’s a idyllic for mountain hikes, and bike rides, swimming in mountain lakes, visiting local festivals and markets. There is something for everyone, from golf to fishing, rock climbing and even white water rafting and zip-lining.
Staying at a hotel in Lech, entitles one to a complementary Lech card, that conveniently doubles as a hotel room key for the duration of your stay. It allows free, unlimited use of local public transport and ski lifts and gondolas. Hotel Gotthard makes a great base to explore Lech, which is a short walk to the gondola.
The snowy mountainous views from the Rufikopf Bergstation, whilst basking in the in the sun, are rather surreal. The dramatic views of the “White Ring” are unprecedented, and one can begin to imagine how absolutely spectacular ski season would be.
Every glimpse of the snow capped Alps, hiking through to Burstegg is truly awe inspiring. The hiking trail is supposedly a relatively easy hike. Perhaps for the seasoned hiker anyway.
With the distant sound of cowbells, and glorious fields of wildflowers, it is definitely worth the walk. However slipping and sliding through muddy tracks, up and down the endless windy trails, at times can become testing. Especially when the guide disappears in the distance over a mountain. Shuffling past cows grazing, as their bells tinkle in the wind, and realisation strikes, that you have no mobile reception, you’re ten miles into climbing a mountain, and there is no turning back. At which point, one can see how frantically trying to flag down a distant tractor for a ride or, contemplating hiding out in a cow-shed might come to mind. Sipping fresh spring water from a stream, a close encounters with a goat, and braving the elements, are all part of the phenomenal journey. The journey to the old house and church, perched in the middle of the mountains.
The quaint house is home to an elderly couple, who welcome hikers into their dining room for an unforgettably unique experience. Nibbling on the sharing boards of cheese, cured ham, chorizo and the dense, aniseed infused bread. There’s an overwhelming sense of nostalgia in the Alpine house.
The victory of hiking through the mountains must be celebrated in true Austrian style; clinking shot glasses, of home brewed earthy, Enzian schnapps.
If you are looking for more of a scenic stroll, there are far less challenging walks to Lech’s waterfall.
A sedentary afternoon may rather be spent at the prestigious Arlberg Hotel, which was once Princess Diana’s preferred ski resort.
Mingle with locals at Lech’s Music Festivals. The traditional local brass band start their on stage performance in a reserved fashion, but as the night progresses they somehow end up mounting tables, and blowing their trumpets into the unsuspecting crowds.
A visit to Tannberg Food market is a great opportunity to purchase local array of artisan cheese, breads, cured meat, flowers and wood carvings.
Be beguiled by the beauty of Lech. Absorb the fresh air and be at one with nature, whilst embracing Austrian culture. For more ideas on what to do whilst in Lech visit www.lech-zuers.at or www.vorarlberg.at
*Disclaimer: Concierge Angel were complimentary guests. However, all opinions and photos belong to Concierge Angel, unless otherwise stated and remain a trademark of Concierge Angel.