There’s a moment we look forward to every single year. When the first snowflakes begin to fall, the mountains slowly turn white and that unmistakable winter feeling returns to Zug. That’s when we know: winter is on its way.
Winter in Lech am Arlberg. And Rote Wand right in the middle of it.
Winter has always held a special place in our hearts here at the Arlberg. After all, there’s a reason why the Arlberg is known as the birthplace of alpine skiing. But for us, winter is about so much more than that.
Perhaps it’s because we grew up here. Perhaps it’s because there’s hardly anything better than looking out of the window in the morning and discovering that fresh snow has fallen overnight. Or simply because we know how many wonderful moments this season has in store.
When Lech and Zürs slowly disappear beneath a blanket of snow, the first skiers make their turns and the sunny mountain terraces come back to life, one of our favourite times of the year begins.
And the best part? Every winter is a little different. But the excitement never changes.
From Breakfast Straight to the Slopes
If you’re coming to Lech for skiing, our little village of Zug is just the place to be. The Zuger Bergbahn cable car is right on our doorstep, taking you straight into the Ski Arlberg ski area.
And there’s plenty to discover. Wide-open slopes, breathtaking mountain views, cosy mountain huts and endless opportunities to enjoy a day on skis. Whether it’s catching the first lift in the morning, exploring the slopes all day or settling in for a long lunch in the sunshine, skiing at the Arlberg is something special.
We personally love those days when you head up the mountain first thing in the morning, stop somewhere for a leisurely lunch and only return when your legs are starting to feel a little tired.
And then? Straight into the pool, of course.
There’s More to Winter Than Skiing
As much as we love skiing, there’s so much to enjoy in Lech beyond the slopes.
A walk through the snow-covered landscape, fresh mountain air, the crunch of snow beneath your boots and nothing but mountains all around. The Zugertal valley is particularly beautiful at this time of year.
And if you feel like getting a little more active, why not put on some cross-country skis and explore the trails around Lech and Zug?
For something a little more adventurous, grab a sledge and head for the toboggan run. It’s just as much fun for grown-ups as it is for kids.
But sometimes, you don’t need a plan at all. A slow morning, a good book, a few hours at the spa or simply taking some time to enjoy the view.
For us, that’s just as much a part of a winter holiday at Rote Wand as a day on the slopes. After all, our spa, with its pools, saunas and cosy relaxation areas, isn’t just for tired skiers.
And if you feel like moving a little, our yoga and Pilates programme offers just the right balance.
A Good Winter Day Deserves a Good Dinner
And what would a winter holiday at the Arlberg be without good food?
For us, food is just as much a part of winter as snow and skiing. A long breakfast, something delicious in the afternoon and evenings spent around the table, sharing stories, laughing and enjoying great food together.
At Rote Wand, there are plenty of ways to do just that.
In our hotel restaurant, we serve a different menu every evening, reflecting everything we love about good food. Sometimes rooted in Alpine traditions, sometimes inspired by flavours from around the world. Always with a love for great ingredients and really good food.
In our Rote Wand Stuben, Alpine classics meet a wonderfully cosy atmosphere. Our fondue, in particular, has a long tradition here and has been part of many guests’ winter holidays in Lech for years.
For a truly special evening, take a seat at our Chef’s Table, awarded two MICHELIN stars. Here, Julian Stieger and his team show just how exciting, creative and surprising Alpine cuisine can be. An experience that goes far beyond an ordinary dinner.
And at our Friends & Fools Lounge, things get a little more international. Inspiring chefs and winemakers from around the world, fresh ideas and plenty of good company make winter at Rote Wand a culinary adventure, too.
Because we believe some of the best holiday memories are made around a table.
It’s the Little Things
It’s not always the big adventures that make a winter holiday special.
Sometimes it’s that first coffee in the morning, looking out at the snow-covered mountains. The feeling of slipping into warm water after a long day of skiing. A glass of wine before dinner. Or an evening that was only supposed to be a quick one but somehow turns into a much longer night.
These are the moments we love most about winter at Rote Wand.
And perhaps that’s why we look forward to it every single year. When the temperatures drop, the first ski lifts start running and our guests slowly begin to return to Zug.
Some have been coming to stay with us for years. Others are visiting for the very first time. And it’s exactly this mix that makes every winter season special.