4 Best winter family activities in Lech and St Anton, Austria

4 Best winter family activities in Lech and St Anton, Austria

Lech and St Anton are two of the best ski resorts in Austria, and even Europe, for families. With excellent snow, beautiful chalets, and an abundance of quality restaurants, what’s not to like? Our expert concierge team shares with you some of their favourite winter family activities – on and off the mountain.

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1. Family skiing in Austria

“Let’s start with the skiing” says our concierge. “Austria’s Arlberg region is renowned for a vast expanse of slopes beloved by both skiers and boarders. With modern and speedy lift systems, you can easily access the incredible runs.”

“There are over 300km of pistes to explore offering something for all ability levels” she continues. “For children and beginners, we work with some of the most trusted and respected ski schools in Austria, and can pair you with the perfect instructor to get your confidence up on the slopes.”

For families in St Anton, our concierge recommends the Kinderwelt located next to the Gampen chairlift. “The park is designed for children to learn in a safe and enjoyable space” she explains. “If you have kids who are already avid skiers, or want to learn some new tricks yourself –  try the St Anton fun park with 45 different elements to test your skills.”

A popular option is to leave the children in the hands of an experienced instructor or ski school, and explore to your heart’s content. “Hire a guide for the whole day so that they can show you all the best powder spots” she says. “The area is known for its thrilling range of off-piste itineraries”.

“Lech on the other hand is a fantastic area for beginners to intermediates” our concierge advises. “There are 255km of blue and red runs offering plenty of smooth, meandering skiing! Plus, while the kids are at ski school, why not indulge in a leisurely lunch on the mountain?”

2. Dive into the Austrian gastronomic scene

This brings us to the next point, the area is renowned for its plethora of sun-drenched, on-mountain terraces. With a range of options, you can enjoy them with or without the little ones in tow. 

“The Gampen restaurant located at the top of the Gampen lift in St Anton is a reliably great spot for a low-key, self-service family lunch. It offers excellent Austrian hospitality, good food, and fun après ski. Soak up the rays on the vast terrace and tuck into regional delicacies as well as the mountain’s best homemade strudels.” (according to our knowledgeable concierge!). “On Tuesday and Thursday evenings, there is live music. Venture up for a drink, and then enjoy the long toboggan run down to Nasserein!”

For an up-market, sophisticated lunch in the sun, you are spoilt for choice in Lech. From crowd-pleasing local specialties at Mohnenfluh, to a fresh, seasonal tasting menu at Oberlech’s exceptional Griggler Stuba – you will struggle to fit all of the amazing eateries in during your ski holiday!

“Balmalp is a great choice for both skiers and pedestrians – so if you have a group with varying abilities, everyone can meet to share a delicious meal.” Advises our concierge. “Or, head to the Goldner Berg in Oberlech – with no less than five restaurants to tickle your tastebuds, spanning everything from traditional fare to barbecued delights to award-winning fine dining.”

Back in the heart of St Anton village, “if you would like to try something local, the Sonnegg restaurant specialising in Tyrolean dishes and drinks would be the perfect spot for a hearty family dinner.” 

Meanwhile, if you have a special celebration or simply for a memorable date night with your other half – “you can’t beat a candlelit supper at The Krone in Lech.” Expect exceptional service and an even better wine list to accompany the mouth-watering a la carte menu. 

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3. Enjoy non-skiing activities in Lech & St Anton

There’s more to this Alpine paradise than just skiing. Our concierge recommends “Sleigh rides in Lech, sledding down from Oberlech, snowshoeing in the beautiful forests, or ice skating – to name just a few!”

“If you want to stretch those legs and make the most of the gorgeous mountain landscape, try one of the winter walking paths,” she says, “the St Anton loop is a calm walk that showcases the town from a different perspective. For a longer walk, try the Stanzertaler loop which is an 18 km trail following the river. We can arrange snowshoe and poles rental from our helpful supplier in the town.”

She suggests – “For a unique experience, take the traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride around the villages, relax and enjoy the scenery and tour the town whilst listening to the sleigh bells as you go.” Kids are bound to absolutely love this enchanting experience!

As part of our concierge service, we would gladly assist and advise you with booking the perfect activities for you and your family.

4. Don’t forget some ‘you time’!

Take time to relax. Our team can arrange childcare whenever you need it from our trusted suppliers, and book you a well-earned massage at a luxurious spa, or even in the comfort of your own chalet.

We know that although family holidays are for creating lifelong memories together, sometimes you just need a little ‘you time’. “Let us take the hassle out of hunting for good childcare (and good a masseuse!) – we can arrange it all for you with a single call to your in-resort concierge.”

Where to stay? 

Chalech 4, Lech

This ultra-sophisticated yet cosy home oozes alpine charm, and enjoys access to luxurious spa facilities and a swimming pool shared with 3 other high-end chalets in the development. Sleeping 12+2, it is located just a 3-minute stroll from the Schlosskopf chairlift. From a plush master suite to the quad bunk room perfect for kids, this is a fantastic option for a large, multigenerational family to enjoy some quality time together. It is available for Christmas, New Year, and throughout the season.

The Nidus Apartments, Lech.

With luxurious apartments in a great location accommodating parties between 6-10 guests, these are a great option for families who want to be based centrally and enjoy hassle-free, stylish and modern accommodation. The apartments can be booked individually or in combination, offering excellent flexibility, and have a range of availability including all the most sought-after dates throughout the winter.

Chalet Maria Schnee, St Anton.

Available this season for the festive period and beyond, this enchanting chalet has a fascinating history and is bursting with Tyrolean charm, without compromising on luxury. Sleeping 15 guests and featuring wellness facilities, a cosy playroom/TV room, plus a lovely triple bedroom ideal for children, it really is the perfect Austrian family chalet.

Villa Villekula, St Anton.

This is a wonderful example of modern chalet design. A striking ski-in chalet that welcomes the outside landscape in through vast glass windows and a paired-back alpine interior, it sleeps12, and is a great option for a family who loves the outdoors. Still available for a Christmas escape and for several other weeks throughout the season, book now to avoid disappointment!

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28^th July 2023