Lech, at the centre of the Arlberg ski area, is one of the most exclusive ski venues in Austria. Along with its neighbour, Zürs, this is where high society goes for a winter break in beautiful surroundings on well groomed slopes.

Both Lech (1,450m) and Zürs (1,720m) are host to a collection of extremely expensive hotels, shops and top-rated eateries. Tourists far outnumber the year round population of Lech, which is only 1,000, and Zürs, just 100. There are over 8,000 beds in all, ranging from five-star to two-star as well as private accommodation.

Lech/Zürs has a total of 55 runs encompassing 180kms of pistes with a longest section of five kilometres. Beginners have 27 per cent of the slopes; 49 per cent for intermediate; and 24 per cent for advanced. Eighty-three lifts and four gondolas transport over 44,600 skiers per hour. There are 120kms of off-piste runs, and two cross-country trails - one 15kms and the other 4kms. In addition, there is a Fun Park for snowboarders.

After-hours and away from the slopes, activities and facilities include: 15kms of winter hiking trails; a natural toboggan run, floodlit in the evenings; horse-drawn sleigh rides; curling; helicopter skiing; ice-skating (natural); indoor tennis; paragliding; winter golf (indoor driving range); squash; and a sports centre. Nightly entertainment boasts 36 bars, including 20 ice bars and five discos.

The Lech/Zürs ski season starts at the end of November (possibly later) and runs until late April, with the best conditions towards the end of February and the cheapest rates the week before December 19 and late March onwards.

You can fly, drive or take the train, or use a combination of these methods to reach the resort. There are four airports with connections to the resorts, with Zürich being the most convenient. The Skibus runs from Zürich Airport to Lech/Zürs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday; on other days, trains go to Langen where buses and taxis await.