Oberlech – Ski holidays between the White Ring and family trails

Oberlech combines impressive ski runs with activities for families and excursions away from the slopes. The White Ring ski circuit leads through Lech, Zürs, Zug and Oberlech and is signposted throughout.

Winter sports in Oberlech

The White Ring comprises around 22 kilometres of ski runs and 5,500 metres of vertical descent. Distinctive White Ring symbols along the route help with orientation. The ski circuit connects several villages via impressive descents, making it something different from a single practice area. For their first days of skiing or to practise basic movements, children can use the children's area in Oberlech: The sunny, quiet and car-free practice area has three conveyor belts. The Oberlech practice area is designed for children as well as returning and beginner skiers who want to improve their technique and safety; this also includes the Oberlech practice lift. Another clearly defined winter activity is the toboggan run. It starts at the top station of the Oberlech cable car and leads through the winter forest down to Lech. The route is 1.2 kilometres long, family-friendly and suitable for children. This means that, in addition to its ski runs, Oberlech offers a documented alternative for a shared winter day, even when not all travellers have the same sporting preferences.

Trails for families and days away from the ski runs

Oberlech has children's clubs that look after small children. The Green Riddle Ring is a family attraction leading to the Rud-Alpe. There, children can enjoy a water playground, a tree house, a petting zoo, a trampoline and slacklines. Gipsi's Riddle Trail is also designed as a family riddle trail through the mountain landscape of Oberlech and comprises six stations in the middle and upper Gipslöcher. The lower Gipslöcher are easily accessible to hikers and are suitable for a varied family hike. The Gipslöcher consist of more than 1,000 sinkholes of different sizes. The largest sinkhole is around 35 metres deep and has a diameter of 100 metres. Those looking for a guided nature and adventure trail will find more than 20 stations on the Arlenzauber Trail, covering special characteristics of animals and plants. The trail is around 2 kilometres long, starts at the top station of the Lech-Oberlech cable car and leads gently and easily downhill via Lake Libellensee and the flower meadows on the Schlegelkopf to the Rud-Alpe. Austrian and regional specialities are served on its sun terrace.

Orientation and seasonal access

Oberlech lies at an altitude of 1,750 metres above Lech am Arlberg and is car-free in winter. In summer, Oberlech is best reached on foot or from Lech by cable car. A circular trail from Lech reaches Oberlech around 20 minutes after starting at Rüfiplatz. For a hike with historical connections, the “In the Footsteps of the Walser” route leads from Oberlech to the historic Walser village of Bürstegg. Bürstegg is considered the highest Walser settlement in Vorarlberg. Further destinations that are not exclusively winter attractions round out the selection: Oberlech has a 3D archery course for children and adults. The trail from the top station of the Lech-Oberlech cable car to Skyspace-Lech begins at this top station; Skyspace Lech is a work of art created by US artist James Turrell. For comparison with another village, you can also view Zürs.

For the higher-level travel overview: Lech.