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Just imagine: a clear mountain stream gushes from alpine springs, winding its way through gorges, past riparian forests and gravel banks, across gentle alpine meadows and through quaint villages – and the journey ends at a spectacular waterfall. This is exactly what awaits you on the Lechweg, one of the most beautiful long-distance hiking trails in the Alps.
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Embark on an extraordinary journey along one of Europe’s last wild rivers. The Lechweg takes you through breathtaking Alpine landscapes in seven to eight stages – from the source of the Lech at Lake Formarin to the Lechfall in Füssen. Joining us this year: Alexander Tauscher from Radioreise, who has captured the stories, people and special features along the trail in an exciting podcast. Discover it now, have a listen – and set off on your own hike!
- The route & key details
- Length: approx. 125 kilometres – from the source of the Lech (Lake Formarin near Lech am Arlberg) to the Lech Falls in Füssen in the Allgäu.
- Stages & Variations: You can walk the trail in 7 classic or 8 leisurely stages – depending on how much time and stamina you have. More information is available on our website.
- Difficulty: Mostly easy to moderately difficult. A long-distance hiking trail that is also suitable for people who are not used to high-alpine tours. Elevation profile: Starting high, the route mostly descends gently towards the finish.
- Highlights along the way
- Nature experience: One of Europe’s last wild river landscapes, floodplain forests, rare plants, ibex colonies – the trail is brimming with biodiversity.
Sights and detours:
• The spectacular suspension bridge near Holzgau is a highlight in its own right.
• The ‘Lechschleifen’ – circular walks that make for lovely additions if you want to see even more of the surrounding area.
• Culture & regional specialities: local history, local produce, small craft workshops
In conversation: Podcast with Alexander Tauscher
This year, we had a special visitor at the Talhof: Alexander Tauscher, known for his radio programme ‘Radioreise – macht Reiselust!’, was out and about on the Lechweg. In his episode ‘The Lechweg from Source to Falls’, he takes listeners on a journey through the individual stages, sharing the stories along the way – featuring people, places, local producers and nature-related topics.
You can hear interviews, for example with Daniela Pfefferkorn from the Lechweg team, who talks about planning and product management; with a herb expert on wild herbs along the trail; with distillers on regional specialities; and much more. These voices make it clear: hiking here isn’t just about racking up steps, but immersing yourself in the landscape and culture.
Planning & Tips
Best time of year: Spring (late May/mid-June depending on the stage) to autumn – depending on snow conditions.
Equipment: Good footwear, weatherproof clothing, possibly walking poles – even though the trail is considered moderate, there are sections with changes in altitude and rougher terrain.
Accommodation & Infrastructure: There are numerous partner establishments, cosy huts, inns and hotels along the route. Detours to local producers and restaurants are particularly worthwhile.
Mobility: Many places are accessible by public transport, which allows for flexibility (e.g. when starting the route or taking a break).
Why the Lechweg is so special
Because it connects: two countries, three regions, nature and culture, adventure and enjoyment. Because it offers accessibility without compromising on stunning scenery. Because every step along the Lechweg tells a story – stories of geology, history, people, herbs, wildlife and the regional way of life. And last but not least: the river itself – the Lech – remains a constant companion, sometimes gentle, sometimes wild, always life-giving and inspiring.