At an altitude of 1,750 metres above Lech am Arlberg, Oberlech is a destination for different seasons: in winter, the village is car-free; in summer, the best way to reach it is on foot or by cable car from Lech. Check the cable car timetable before travelling. The Oberlech circular trail leads from Rüfiplatz in Lech to Oberlech in about 20 minutes.
Gipslöcher and Trails Through the Mountain Landscape
The Gipslöcher consist of more than 1,000 sinkholes of various sizes. The largest is about 35 metres deep and 100 metres in diameter. The Gipslöcher area in Lech Zürs is made up of striking, funnel-shaped sinkholes and has been specially protected as a nature reserve since 1988. The lower Gipslöcher are easily accessible to hikers and are ideal for a varied family hike.
Several trails offer different highlights. More than 20 stations along the Arlenzauberweg introduce visitors to the special characteristics of animals and plants. The trail, about 2 kilometres long, starts at the mountain station of the Lech-Oberlech cable car and descends gently and easily via Libellensee and the flower meadows on Schlegelkopf to Rud-Alpe. Enjoy Austrian and regional specialities on its sun terrace.
Gipsis Rätselweg is a family puzzle trail through Oberlech’s mountain landscape, with six stations in the middle and upper Gipslöcher. Another family trail, “Spielend wandern,” runs between Oberlech and Petersboden and features eight nature-based games along the route. Those interested in Walser history can take a different kind of walk on “Auf den Spuren der Walser,” from Oberlech to the historic Walser village of Bürstegg. Bürstegg is considered Vorarlberg’s highest Walser settlement.
Winter Activities: Ski Circuit, Toboggan Run and Practice Area
The White Ring connects Lech, Zürs, Zug and Oberlech via ski runs. The circuit covers about 22 kilometres of ski runs and 5,500 metres of elevation gain. Continuous signposting and distinctive White Ring symbols along the runs help you find your way. The places it connects and the circuit’s dimensions help you understand the ski day as one interconnected offering.
Another winter activity is a 1.2-kilometre toboggan run from the mountain station of the Oberlech cable car down through the winter forest to Lech. It is family-friendly and suitable for children; it operates seasonally. For their first days on skis, children can visit the sunny, quiet and car-free Kinderland Oberlech, which has three magic carpets. The seasonal Oberlech practice area is for children and for returning skiers and beginners who want to improve their technique and confidence; it includes the Oberlech practice lift. Children’s clubs in Oberlech also look after young children, although seasonal availability may vary.
For a winter walk, the Oberlech–Tannegg–Kriegeralpe route starts at the mountain station of the Oberlech cable car. It first leads to the Tannegg viewpoint and then continues to Kriegeralpe. When planning, bear in mind that winter conditions on routes can vary.
Find Hotels and Plan Your Trip
Travelling to Oberlech on foot or by cable car from Lech is another practical point to consider when planning a summer visit. Check the timetable and seasonal services before your visit if they are important to your plans.
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