The Complete Lech River Trail

The Lech River Trail begins in the middle of the Arlberg mountain range in Eastern Austria. Fly into Innsbruck or Zurich and then take a train to Langen am Arlberg (1hr 20 or 2hr 15), then a bus to Lech (25 mins). We can also organize direct transfers from Innsbruck airport to Lech (1 hr 40mins) upon request.

A well-known ski resort in winter, picturesque Lech is wonderfully peaceful in the summer months. Take the Rufikopf cable car to 2,350m for sweeping views of the surrounding alpine landscapes that you will soon be exploring by foot.

Take a local bus to Formarinsee and the source of the Lech river at 1789m (1 hour) High in the mountains here you will find one of the biggest ibex colonies in Europe, so keep your eyes peeled! Follow the river along narrow paths as it gently meanders through the valley. Arrive at the hamlet of Zug where you can sample some freshly caught and smoked mountain trout before continuing through alpine meadows to reach Lech.

Ascent 68m / Descent 431m

Start your hike with an ascent taking you to the right of the river. The river soon disappears into the Lech gorge and out of sight; only the sound of the roaring water remains. Cross wooden footbridges as the trail crosses the gorge.

Descend to the village of Warth and finish your day with a visit to the local Käserei (cheese factory) for a tasting.

Ascent 352m / Descent 315m

Walk high above the Lech through meadows and forest. Views of the valley open up and from time to time you will see flashes of the river’s turquoise waters. Descend to the valley floor and come to Steeg where another cheese factory is waiting for hungry hikers. From here, walk directly alongside the fast-flowing river to the village of Holzgau and admire the painted facades of the beautifully preserved buildings.

Ascent 342m / Descent 739m

The spectacular Holzgauer bridge; Austria’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge; awaits you today. At 200m in length, 110m above the ground and crossing the dramatic Höhenbach gorge, it’s a real highlight of the day. If you prefer to avoid the bridge, don’t worry as there is also an adrenaline-free option to get back to the Lech valley.

Continue over alpine pastures to Bach, from where it’s a leisurely walk along the banks of the river to Elbigenalp; the heart of the Lech valley.

Ascent 579m / Descent 627m

There is a lot to discover today; for example, the mysterious Doser waterfall, whose water inexplicably dries up every year between November and April. Enjoy magnificent views of the milky-turquoise river and the lush green valley as you continue on the trail. Stop off in the hamlet of Vorderhornbach for a refreshment before wandering the last couple of kilometers along the riverbank into Stanzach.

Ascent 508m / Descent 631m

From Stanzach the river begins to widen. Follow the river banks while walking in the shadow of the mountainous Tyroler-Lech Nature Park. Walking alongside the smooth flowing water has a truly meditative effect.

Fans of suspension bridges have an opportunity to explore the Forchacher hanging bridge before continuing on the trail. Come to the Reuttener basin, and look up for glimpses of the perched ruins of the Ehrenberg castle; a first peek at the region’s noble history.

Ascent 122m / Descent 119m

An exciting day of walking awaits as you cross the border into Bavaria and finish your hike along the Lech River Trail.

Shortly after the town of Pflach, cross the unmarked border from Austria into Germany. The crossing is without fanfare; however, the scenery is reward enough! Take in views to the shimmering blue-green waters of Alpsee as you descend and keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of the famous Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangu castles perched high in the distance.

Finally, on the outskirts of Füssen, the thundering water of the Lechfalls signals the end of the Lech River Trail—congratulations!

Today is a long day with a few strenuous climbs. For the weary, the day can be shortened to 15km by taking a bus from Pflach to Füssen.

Ascent 760m / Descent 872m

Visit the famous castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau, both of which are just a short bus journey from Füssen. Neuschwanstein is one of Germany’s most popular tourist attractions and it’s easy to see why. Built in the late 19th century by the eccentric King Ludwig II of Bavaria, its Romantic, fairytale style and stunning Alpine backdrop has inspired many. Tours are by guide only and it is strongly recommended to reserve tickets online well in advance.

Prefer to stay away from the hustle and bustle? Why not relax your muscles in the Kristall-Therme thermal baths while appreciating the views of the castles in the distance

Check out of your hotel for your onward travel. Still have time and energy to spare? Füssen is also the endpoint of the famous King Ludwig Way long-distance trail and the tours can easily be combined. For more information about this tour please ask your Destination specialist or refer to our website.