The Austrian Alps are blessed with a long and bountiful snow season and it was in these conditions that downhill skiing was born. Winter sports are to the Austrian culture what baseball is to Americans and football is to the English – a way of life. The Arlberg is a world famous ski region frequented by pro skiers and the Jet Set alike the modest, but precise implementation of technologies have allowed the region to accommodate large numbers of skiers every season on hundreds of kilometres of tracks, without sacrificing the intimate and traditional feel of the towns and village resorts that nestle in the mountains. At an altitude of 2200m, snow is almost guaranteed between December and April.
Two of the main districts within Arlberg, Lech and Zürs are renowned for their luxury hotels and ski chalets. The area is also famed generous snowfalls. With 168 miles of prepared slopes and 112 miles of deep snow off-piste runs, a certified mountain guide will take you though the best snow, the most romantic huts and the most beautiful scenery that the region has to offer.
Heliskiing is also popular in Arlberg, offering access to the very best deep powder snow. Flights leave from Lechs and take up to three skiers plus a guide to the Schneetäli or the Mehlsack peaks and the most spectacular mountain views.
90 years ago Ambrose Strolz set up shop in Lech manufacturing custom made ski boots. Today the brand is now world famous and still makes orthopedically precise, 100% handcrafted custom ski boots in Lech.
While Lech and Zürs specialise in high end accommodation that would please the British Royal Family, St. Anton is the heart of the party scene with several bars and clubs for those looking for plenty of Apres in their Skiing.
Bobos on Dorfstrasse is a Mexican restaurant and nightclub. The food is excellent and as the evening progresses, the atmosphere becomes a full-on party.
Kandahar begins the evening as an Indian/Thai restaurant. At around 9pm it becomes a music venue, hosting the best acts in the village. Then, at 2am, it becomes a nightclub, pumping uplifting house from an excellent resident DJ and guest DJ’s from around the world.
Mosserweg and Dorfstrasse are St Anton’s main haunts for those seeking a late night party on their Austria ski chalet breaks.
Other activities in the Arlberg Region
Skiing and partying are not the only activities available in the Arlberg. Hire a pair of snow shoes and unwind with a walk on one of the snow trails; a perfect antidote to a hectic day on the slopes.
St. Anton and Lech both offer fantastic toboggan runs. Both runs are 4.2km long and illuminated at night, offering fun for both young and old.
If you enjoy climbing, head to Tyrol for some of the best ice climbing in Austria. If you prefer an indoor climb, spend a day at Arl.Rock in St. Anton.
Spas are extremely popular in Europe and the most luxurious in the region is the Aurelio Spa. Part of the Aurelio Hotel in Lech, the day spa offers guests several pools, a fitness centre with personal trainers, a thermal suite and meditation centre complete with open fire.
Author: Marie-Paule Graham