The villages of the Arlberg in Western Austria, particularly the ski resorts of Lech and Oberlech, have been doing alot recently to encourage summer visitors to balance their crowded but short ski seasons. The walking here is superb - and hotels like the Goldener Berg in Oberlech provide top quality service, spas, pools and spectacular scenery at a fraction of the winter rates. You can literally step out of the door here and walk up into the fields and alpine meadows, and take your pick form a short half hour stroll to three hour or full day hikes.

There are regular stops along the well marked paths - benches to get your breath, admire the spectacular scenery, or have a picnic - or small panoramic restaurants. There are also farmhouse kitchens dispensing mountain salamis and cheeses, and a refreshing cider like drink, to hungry and thirsty walkers.

The only difficulty - though also a blessing - is the complications of getting here in the summer - no ski shuttles to ferry you from the airport. Hire a car from Friedrichshafen or Innsbruck for a short stay, though you won't need to step into it again until you leave.

Written by  James Dunford Wood.

Add comment

Comments, reviews and questions

There are no posts. Why not be the first to have your say?

Add a comment, review or question

Make a comment Ask a question Write a review

Review title

Your comment

Your rating

Choose rating... Don't go Go Must go

Your name

Your email address