What makes the Lechweg so attractive that every year countless hikers cover the route between Lech am Arlberg and Füssen? It attracts hikers with 125 kilometres of easy long-distance hiking and numerous highlights in breathtaking mountain scenery.

 

Where does the Lechweg run?

The Lechweg is named after the Lech, one of the last wild rivers in Europe. It stretches from the Arlberg via the Lechtal-Reutte Nature Park region to the Allgäu, where it flows into the Danube not far from Donauwörth. In all these regions, it has had a lasting impact on nature and people. The trail takes you along its course from its source near Lake Formarin near Lech am Arlberg to the Lech Falls in Füssen.

The short history of the Lechweg

The idea for the Lechweg was born in the late 1990s, but it took until 2012 for it to be realised. Today it is one of the ‘Leading Quality Trails - Best of Europe’ and has developed into a flagship project.

This certification guarantees hikers maximum hiking enjoyment. The route is close to nature and typical of the landscape, it does not require any artificial fortifications and is easy to walk on. A clear marking system guides you through the varied landscape.

 

The recommended route

Whether you walk the Lechweg in a challenging 6 days, a pleasant 7 days or an enjoyable 8 days depends entirely on your fitness level and time. Details of the stages can be found on the Lechweg website.

We recommend the leisurely 8-day option, as stage 5 ends virtually on the doorstep of LechZeit in Elmen:

Stage: Formarinsee to Lech am Arlberg: 14 km
Stage: Lech am Arlberg to Warth: 10.7 km
Stage: Warth to Steeg: 14.5 km
Stage: Steeg to Bach: 14.8 km
Stage: Bach to Elmen: 15.2 km
Stage: Elmen to Weißenbach: 21.5 km
Stage: Weißenbach to Pflach / Reutte: 18.7 km
Stage: Pflach / Reutte to Füssen (Lechfall): 15.1 km

The entire Lechweg is accessible from mid-June to mid-October, from mid-May the start is possible from  Warth a. Arlberg.

 

What awaits you on the Lechweg

You walk through unspoilt nature, whose main protagonists are the water and the breathtaking mountain scenery.

The Lech has shaped the landscape and carves out a new riverbed every year. Lake Formarin with its emerald green colour is an impressive start. Almost at the end of your hike, another natural lake awaits you, the Alpsee, before you reach the Lech Falls in Füssen at the end.

You frequently cross the Lech over bridges and footbridges. The suspension bridges at Holzgau and Forchach are spectacular.

You hike through a species-rich habitat in the Lechtal Alps with unique flora and fauna, which has many surprises in store for you if you look closely.

 

Hiking without luggage

The LechZeit in Elmen is located roughly in the middle of the Lechweg and is ideal as accommodation for your entire hike. You don't have to pack and unpack every day, as a bus takes you to the start of each stage and picks you up again at your destination.

The hiking bus is free of charge for LechZeit guests. The bus stop is in the centre of the village and is a 10-minute walk away. The bus runs every hour from Elmen up and down the valley. You can find more details ⇒ here.

 

Info & Maps

Recommendations for suitable maps can be found on the Lechweg website.

Of course, we will also provide you with maps during your stay and give you our tips along the way.

 

Conclusion:

The Lechweg is ideal for anyone who wants to get into long-distance hiking. The stages are manageable and easy to complete. If you like a more challenging hike, you can complete the trail in less than six days.

But the Lechweg is also ideal for families if you choose individual stages. There is always something to see and experience to keep the little ones entertained.

You can find experience reports at Raus in die Natur, Gehlebt and Bergwelten.