The Lechweg – From Füssen to Formarinsee
From rushing waterfalls to the bubbling source 🌊🏔️🌿
Experience the Lechweg differently – in reverse, from its powerful finale to its silent beginning. This unique perspective takes you approximately 125 kilometers from the Lech Waterfall in Füssen, Germany 🇩🇪, back to the turquoise Formarinsee in Vorarlberg, Austria 🇦🇹. Instead of following the river’s flow, you hike toward it—into its history, its tranquility, and the alpine wildness of its headwaters.
Your journey begins at the impressive Lech Waterfall in Füssen, where the wild river plunges through a narrow gorge one last time with full force 🌊. From here, the trail leads through the wide Lech Valley, passing open floodplains, quiet forest sections, and charming villages. With every step, the landscape becomes calmer, more pristine, and more expansive – a perfect invitation to slow down and consciously perceive your surroundings 🌿🕊️.
Along the way, you will discover places like Pflach, Höfen, Weißenbach, Stanzach, Elmen, Elbigenalp, and Holzgau 🏘️. Here, you will encounter living traditions, warm hospitality, and the culinary delights of the Alpine region 🧀🥨. Benches along the path frequently invite you to pause for a moment, listen to the rushing water, or simply let your gaze wander over the mountains ⛰️✨.
The further you hike against the current, the wilder and more original the river's character becomes. The broad river gradually narrows, the water becomes clearer, and the landscape more alpine. Wooden boardwalks, narrow paths, and small bridges accompany you through lush alpine meadows 🌾, past waterfalls 💧, and through silent high valleys. The mountains draw closer, the air grows fresher, and nature reveals its purest side.
Finally, you reach Formarinsee, where the Lech has its origin. The shimmering turquoise lake lies nestled between the rugged peaks of the Lechtal Alps – a place of silent beauty and special power 💙🏔️. Here, your journey ends where everything begins. A moment to breathe deeply, to look back, and to arrive with intention.
Whether in spring with blooming meadows 🌼, in summer with clear mountain streams 💦, or in the golden autumn 🍂 – the Lechweg in reverse offers you a new perspective on one of Europe's most beautiful long-distance hiking trails. Step by step, from the thundering waterfall back to the silent source – and with every breath, a little more peace, freedom, and connection with nature 🥾🕊️.
Arrival in Füssen
Arrival by Train
Füssen is easily accessible by train and well connected to the German rail network. The train station is just a few minutes’ walk from the Old Town, where most hotels are located. This means you can usually reach your accommodation relaxed on foot. Restaurants, cafés, the Lech Waterfall, and numerous walking paths are also within easy reach of the center.
Arrival by Car
If you are arriving with your own vehicle, various public parking options are available in Füssen. Near the Old Town, there are open-air parking lots as well as multi-story car parks and underground garages that are ideal for a stay of several days.
A particularly comfortable option is using guarded parking facilities with video surveillance and on-site staff. Attractive rates are available for longer stays; for example, a 10-day ticket in the underground garage costs approx. 56 Euros, or a monthly ticket in an outdoor car park costs approx. 40 Euros. This way, you can park your vehicle securely and start or end your hiking trip completely relaxed.
After checking in, it is recommended to leave the car parked, as the center of Füssen, the Old Town, and many sights can be excellently explored on foot.
Arrive in Füssen and Enjoy
Füssen is the ideal place to start your trip calmly or end it in style. The historic Old Town with its colorful facades, small cafés, and traditional inns invites you for an initial stroll. The Hohes Schloss (High Castle) and St. Mang Monastery provide insight into the city's long history and are easily accessible on foot.
Just a few minutes outside the center, the famous royal castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau await, as well as the Alpsee lake and numerous panoramic paths around the Schwansee and Forggensee lakes. For those who prefer it quieter, there are lovely spots along the banks of the Lech river to linger, dip your feet in the water, or enjoy a relaxed walk.
Whether culture, nature, or indulgence – Füssen offers the perfect setting to begin your hiking trip in a relaxed manner or end it in peace.
Hotel (example): Hotel Sonne
From Füssen to Pflach
Your hike begins in Füssen at the Lech Waterfall, where the wild river rushes thunderously through the narrow gorge. After just the first few steps, you leave the river and follow quiet forest and dirt tracks uphill towards the Kniepass. Via the historic Sternschanze (star-shaped redoubt), part of the Ehrenberg Castle World, beautiful views open up back into the valley and the surrounding landscape ⛰️✨.
Near Unterpinswang, you have the option of following a historic detour in the footsteps of King Ludwig II. Via the Schluxen and the Fürstenstraße (Princes' Road), you later rejoin the official path. The route then continues through quiet forests towards the Alpsee lake, past the distinctive Israelit rock formation 🌲.
Soon, the first views of the Alpsee open up between the trees, and a little later, the world-famous castles of Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein become visible 🏰💙. The path continues above the Schwansee lake on quiet forest trails and finally leads you back towards Tyrol.
After the descent, you continue your hike through open landscapes and light forests until you reach Pflach at the end of the day – a quiet place on the edge of the Lech Valley and a pleasant spot to end the day in a relaxed manner 💚.
Hotel (example): Hotel Gasthof Zum Schwanen
distance
climb
descent
duration
From Pflach to Weißenbach am Lech
Your hike begins in Pflach and first leads you through the tranquil Pflacher Au, a natural area with extensive gravel banks and diverse birdlife. You cross the Lech via a pedestrian bridge and continue hiking towards Hinterbichl, accompanied by peaceful river landscapes and open floodplain forests 🌊🕊️.
The trail then climbs slightly and passes the idyllic Frauensee lake, whose quiet atmosphere invites you to take a break. If you wish, you can take a short detour from here to the Costaries Chapel. The ascent is noticeable, but you are rewarded with an impressive view over the Reutte valley basin ⛰️✨.
The journey continues along the sunny high trail to Wängle and across the Lech bridge to Höfen, picturesquely situated at the foot of the Hahnenkamm mountain. Afterwards, the path leads back to the Lech, passing the Hornberg bedload trap and continuing towards Rieden, where the tranquil Riedener See lake offers a perfect spot for a relaxed rest 🌿💧.
Finally, the Lech accompanies you to the impressive exit of the Rotlech Gorge, where steep rock faces and rushing water create a particularly striking backdrop. Shortly after, you reach Weißenbach, your destination for the day, peacefully nestled in the Lech Valley 💚.
Hotel (example): Naturparkhotel Florence
distance
climb
descent
duration
From Weißenbach am Lech to Elmen
Your hike begins in Weißenbach am Lech and first leads you along the foot of the Moosberg mountain into a particularly quiet and natural landscape. Shortly after leaving the village, a Kneipp facility invites you to revitalize your feet and start the day feeling refreshed 💧🌿.
The path continues past the Forchach quarry pond and then towards the Johannesbrücke bridge, which serves as a reminder of the early history of Lech crossings. Along the banks, you hike through open wild river landscapes with wide gravel banks and driftwood, which give the valley its original character 🌊🕊️.
Near Forchach, you will pass the well-known Forchach Suspension Bridge. Although the Lechweg does not lead across the bridge, a short detour is worth it for the impressive view into the wide riverbed 🌉✨. Afterward, you continue your hike further upstream and reach the vast gravel areas near Stanzach.
Just before the village, a detour to the Baichlstein is recommended—a viewpoint offering a magnificent view of the braided river system of the Lech. The path then leads through the village of Stanzach and on to the Lech bridge, where you cross the river and hike towards Vorderhornbach.
In Vorderhornbach, the "sunny village" of the Lech Valley, the Badino natural adventure pool invites you for a refreshing break 💦. A short climb to the former mountain station of the ski lift rewards you with a grand panoramic view over the valley and the silvery shimmering loops of the Lech river ⛰️✨.
In the final section, the Lech accompanies you through colorful meadows, gravel banks, and quiet floodplain forests further to Elmen, where this diverse stage ends in the midst of alpine scenery and living tradition 💚.
Hotel (example): Landgasthof Kaiserkrone
distance
climb
descent
duration
From Elmen to Elbigenalp
Your hike begins in Elmen and first leads you along the Panorama Trail towards Luxnach, offering magnificent views over the upper Lech Valley. Via the Burweg, you reach one of the most mysterious places on the Lechweg: the Doser Waterfall. This legendary waterfall, which disappears every autumn and returns in the spring, provides a special moment to pause and marvel 💧✨.
The journey continues toward Häselgehr, where you hike along the Lech through peaceful meadows, small floodplain forests, and over wide field paths. The gravel banks by the river offer beautiful vistas time and again, and with a little luck, you might spot some local waterfowl 🌊🕊️. In the village, it is worth visiting the impressive Parish Church of St. Martin, whose artistic design is one of the cultural highlights of the Lech Valley.
Beyond Häselgehr, you continue to follow the Lech, passing the outdoor swimming pool with its small stream, which offers a welcome refreshment on warm days 💦. You cross to the other side of the river via a bridge and reach the meadows and floodplain forests near Grießau.
The final section leads you through an open, friendly valley landscape back to Elbigenalp, the cultural center of the Lech Valley. This varied stage ends here, having harmoniously combined nature, history, and tranquil waterscapes 💚.
Hotel (example): Hotel Stern
distance
climb
descent
duration
From Elbigenalp to Holzgau
Your hike begins in Elbigenalp and initially leads you along pleasant paths along the banks of the Lech towards Bach. The sound of rushing water accompanies you for several kilometers through an open, peaceful valley landscape 🌊🕊️. You then ascend gently via a forest path and reach a small chapel before the trail continues toward Seesumpf.
From here, the route leads further uphill through the Benglerwald forest to the valley station of the Jöchelspitzbahn cable car. Those who wish can comfortably gain some altitude by taking the cable car. At the top, the summit cross at Lachenkopf and the Lechtal Mountain Hay Museum invite you to take a short break and enjoy the beautiful views ⛰️✨. A brief detour to the Modertal Waterfall offers a special nature experience within a narrow rock gorge 💧.
The trail continues through the quiet landscapes near Schigge and across wooden boardwalks through untouched nature toward Stockach. After the descent, you reach the Höhenbach Valley, where the Simms Waterfall and Café Uta invite you for a rest. From here, you make your way back to Holzgau.
Just before reaching the village, you arrive at the famous Holzgau Suspension Bridge, which hovers high above the Höhenbach Gorge. Those who are brave enough can cross it and dare a look into the depths – an impressive conclusion to this stage 🌉✨. The path then leads comfortably into the village center of Holzgau, where this diverse hiking day ends in a peaceful atmosphere 💚.
Hotel (example): Posthotel Lechtal
distance
climb
descent
duration
From Holzgau to Lechleiten (Warth)
Your hike begins in the picturesque village of Holzgau, famous for its artistically painted house facades. After just the first few steps, you leave the village and follow the Lechweg through a diverse landscape towards Hägerau. Along field paths and quiet riverside trails, the shimmering turquoise Lech accompanies you, having already impressively shaped its valley here 🌊🕊️.
At the waterfall near Hägerau, a small Kneipp facility invites you to take a refreshing break. You continue on the Jochweg, which gradually leads you higher into the valley, repeatedly offering beautiful views of the Lech Valley ⛰️✨.
In Steeg, you reach a vibrant heart of the valley. A break at the Sojer natural dairy or a short stop at the Aqua Nova adventure pool provides welcome opportunities for relaxation. Afterward, you leave the valley floor and follow the Panorama Trail, which runs high above the Lech. Deep below you, the river's characteristic turquoise flashes repeatedly between trees and rocks 🌿💧.
Via the former federal highway—which today winds quietly and naturally in gentle curves up the valley—you finally reach the high-altitude Walser villages. With sweeping views over the Lech Valley, you conclude this impressive stage in Lechleiten near Warth, amidst alpine expanse and silent mountain landscapes 💚.
Hotel (example): Berggasthaus Alpenrose
distance
climb
descent
duration
From Lechleiten (Warth) to Lech am Arlberg
Your hike begins in Lechleiten above Warth, where expansive views over the upper Lech Valley and the Allgäu Alps unfold. From here, you follow the Lechweg back towards Warth. After a short time, you reach the idyllic Seebachsee lake, which forms a beautiful start to this stage with its calm waters 💧🌄.
In the center of Warth, you pass historical buildings such as the "Walserhus" and the Church of St. Sebastian, which bear witness to the traditional history of the Walser people. If you wish, you can take a short break at the "Wälder Metzge" and enjoy regional specialties 🧀🥨.
The trail then leads slightly downhill through fragrant mountain forests and continues further down the valley high above the Lech Gorge. A wooden bridge spans the young Lech at a particularly impressive point where the river flows powerfully through the narrow valley 🌊✨. On forest tracks and narrow paths, you continue hiking towards Grenztobel, crossing several small mountain streams that find their glittering way into the valley.
Passing the hamlet of Stubenbach, beautiful views of the Lech Valley and the surrounding peaks open up again and again. The path finally leads back into the center of Lech am Arlberg, where this diverse stage ends in a vibrant alpine atmosphere 💚.
Hotel (example): Hotel Lärchenhof
distance
climb
descent
duration
From Lech am Arlberg to Formarinsee
Your hike begins in Lech am Arlberg and first leads you along the banks of the Lech through meadows and quiet valley sections towards Zug. The gentle murmur of the young river accompanies you for the first few kilometers, setting the tone for the alpine landscape 🌊🕊️.
Passing the idyllic Älpele, you continue hiking into the headwaters of the Lech. Across wooden boardwalks and small bridges, you follow the crystal-clear mountain water that emerges here from the ground in numerous springs. Soon, you will reach the point where the Formarinbach and Spullerbach streams unite – this is where the Lech officially begins its journey through the Alps 💧✨.
The trail now leads across wide alpine meadows towards Alpe Formarin. It is worth taking a short break at the Ibex Monument, as with a little luck, you might spot ibexes in the wild 🦌. You continue climbing via a meadow path, accompanied by impressive views of the surrounding peaks.
Finally, you reach Formarinsee, which lies shimmering in turquoise between the rugged mountains of the Lechtal Alps. A short detour to the lakeshore is the perfect moment to pause and consciously experience the origin of the Lech 🌄💙.
A special stage that leads you step by step from the valley back to the source of the wild river.
Hotel (example): Hotel Lärchenhof
distance
climb
descent
duration
Departure or extension
After eventful hiking days along the Lech, it is time today to say goodbye or to consciously extend your trip a little longer. Lech am Arlberg offers ideal opportunities to quietly enjoy your last hours in the mountains.
If you want to start the day in a relaxed manner, you can use the Lech Card one last time and take the Rüfikopf cable car up the panoramic Rüfikopf mountain 🚡. Wide views over the mountain world, a panorama platform, small walking paths, and cozy places for refreshments await you at the top. A perfect spot to take a deep breath and let the impressions of the past days sink in 🌄🕊️.
Alternatively, a leisurely stroll through Lech am Arlberg is worthwhile. The village combines alpine elegance with warm hospitality. Cafés, small shops, and walking paths along the young Lech invite you to quietly experience the special atmosphere of the place ☕🌿.
If you are not ready to go home yet, you can extend the trip by a day and treat yourself to a very special conclusion:
A hike to the Freiburger Hütte or an excursion to the Formarinsee, the source of the Lech. Once at the top, a small loop around the turquoise lake is a perfect option – a quiet, powerful place that rounds off your hike in a special way 💙🏔️. Lingering here one last time, sitting on a bench, and watching the water is a wonderful moment of arrival.
Should you start your journey home, there is the option to conveniently travel back to Füssen by bus 🚌. This way, you reach your starting point or continue your journey home in a relaxed manner, taking all the impressions of this special hike with you.
No matter what you decide: The Lech, its landscapes, and its stories will accompany you for a long time – as a memory of a journey full of nature, tranquility, and time for yourself 🌿🕊️.
Day 1
Arrival in Füssen
Arrival by Train
Füssen is easily accessible by train and well connected to the German rail network. The train station is just a few minutes’ walk from the Old Town, where most hotels are located. This means you can usually reach your accommodation relaxed on foot. Restaurants, cafés, the Lech Waterfall, and numerous walking paths are also within easy reach of the center.
Arrival by Car
If you are arriving with your own vehicle, various public parking options are available in Füssen. Near the Old Town, there are open-air parking lots as well as multi-story car parks and underground garages that are ideal for a stay of several days.
A particularly comfortable option is using guarded parking facilities with video surveillance and on-site staff. Attractive rates are available for longer stays; for example, a 10-day ticket in the underground garage costs approx. 56 Euros, or a monthly ticket in an outdoor car park costs approx. 40 Euros. This way, you can park your vehicle securely and start or end your hiking trip completely relaxed.
After checking in, it is recommended to leave the car parked, as the center of Füssen, the Old Town, and many sights can be excellently explored on foot.
Arrive in Füssen and Enjoy
Füssen is the ideal place to start your trip calmly or end it in style. The historic Old Town with its colorful facades, small cafés, and traditional inns invites you for an initial stroll. The Hohes Schloss (High Castle) and St. Mang Monastery provide insight into the city's long history and are easily accessible on foot.
Just a few minutes outside the center, the famous royal castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau await, as well as the Alpsee lake and numerous panoramic paths around the Schwansee and Forggensee lakes. For those who prefer it quieter, there are lovely spots along the banks of the Lech river to linger, dip your feet in the water, or enjoy a relaxed walk.
Whether culture, nature, or indulgence – Füssen offers the perfect setting to begin your hiking trip in a relaxed manner or end it in peace.
Hotel (example): Hotel Sonne
Day 2
From Füssen to Pflach
Your hike begins in Füssen at the Lech Waterfall, where the wild river rushes thunderously through the narrow gorge. After just the first few steps, you leave the river and follow quiet forest and dirt tracks uphill towards the Kniepass. Via the historic Sternschanze (star-shaped redoubt), part of the Ehrenberg Castle World, beautiful views open up back into the valley and the surrounding landscape ⛰️✨.
Near Unterpinswang, you have the option of following a historic detour in the footsteps of King Ludwig II. Via the Schluxen and the Fürstenstraße (Princes' Road), you later rejoin the official path. The route then continues through quiet forests towards the Alpsee lake, past the distinctive Israelit rock formation 🌲.
Soon, the first views of the Alpsee open up between the trees, and a little later, the world-famous castles of Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein become visible 🏰💙. The path continues above the Schwansee lake on quiet forest trails and finally leads you back towards Tyrol.
After the descent, you continue your hike through open landscapes and light forests until you reach Pflach at the end of the day – a quiet place on the edge of the Lech Valley and a pleasant spot to end the day in a relaxed manner 💚.
Hotel (example): Hotel Gasthof Zum Schwanen
distance
climb
descent
duration
Day 3
From Pflach to Weißenbach am Lech
Your hike begins in Pflach and first leads you through the tranquil Pflacher Au, a natural area with extensive gravel banks and diverse birdlife. You cross the Lech via a pedestrian bridge and continue hiking towards Hinterbichl, accompanied by peaceful river landscapes and open floodplain forests 🌊🕊️.
The trail then climbs slightly and passes the idyllic Frauensee lake, whose quiet atmosphere invites you to take a break. If you wish, you can take a short detour from here to the Costaries Chapel. The ascent is noticeable, but you are rewarded with an impressive view over the Reutte valley basin ⛰️✨.
The journey continues along the sunny high trail to Wängle and across the Lech bridge to Höfen, picturesquely situated at the foot of the Hahnenkamm mountain. Afterwards, the path leads back to the Lech, passing the Hornberg bedload trap and continuing towards Rieden, where the tranquil Riedener See lake offers a perfect spot for a relaxed rest 🌿💧.
Finally, the Lech accompanies you to the impressive exit of the Rotlech Gorge, where steep rock faces and rushing water create a particularly striking backdrop. Shortly after, you reach Weißenbach, your destination for the day, peacefully nestled in the Lech Valley 💚.
Hotel (example): Naturparkhotel Florence
distance
climb
descent
duration
Day 4
From Weißenbach am Lech to Elmen
Your hike begins in Weißenbach am Lech and first leads you along the foot of the Moosberg mountain into a particularly quiet and natural landscape. Shortly after leaving the village, a Kneipp facility invites you to revitalize your feet and start the day feeling refreshed 💧🌿.
The path continues past the Forchach quarry pond and then towards the Johannesbrücke bridge, which serves as a reminder of the early history of Lech crossings. Along the banks, you hike through open wild river landscapes with wide gravel banks and driftwood, which give the valley its original character 🌊🕊️.
Near Forchach, you will pass the well-known Forchach Suspension Bridge. Although the Lechweg does not lead across the bridge, a short detour is worth it for the impressive view into the wide riverbed 🌉✨. Afterward, you continue your hike further upstream and reach the vast gravel areas near Stanzach.
Just before the village, a detour to the Baichlstein is recommended—a viewpoint offering a magnificent view of the braided river system of the Lech. The path then leads through the village of Stanzach and on to the Lech bridge, where you cross the river and hike towards Vorderhornbach.
In Vorderhornbach, the "sunny village" of the Lech Valley, the Badino natural adventure pool invites you for a refreshing break 💦. A short climb to the former mountain station of the ski lift rewards you with a grand panoramic view over the valley and the silvery shimmering loops of the Lech river ⛰️✨.
In the final section, the Lech accompanies you through colorful meadows, gravel banks, and quiet floodplain forests further to Elmen, where this diverse stage ends in the midst of alpine scenery and living tradition 💚.
Hotel (example): Landgasthof Kaiserkrone
distance
climb
descent
duration
Day 5
From Elmen to Elbigenalp
Your hike begins in Elmen and first leads you along the Panorama Trail towards Luxnach, offering magnificent views over the upper Lech Valley. Via the Burweg, you reach one of the most mysterious places on the Lechweg: the Doser Waterfall. This legendary waterfall, which disappears every autumn and returns in the spring, provides a special moment to pause and marvel 💧✨.
The journey continues toward Häselgehr, where you hike along the Lech through peaceful meadows, small floodplain forests, and over wide field paths. The gravel banks by the river offer beautiful vistas time and again, and with a little luck, you might spot some local waterfowl 🌊🕊️. In the village, it is worth visiting the impressive Parish Church of St. Martin, whose artistic design is one of the cultural highlights of the Lech Valley.
Beyond Häselgehr, you continue to follow the Lech, passing the outdoor swimming pool with its small stream, which offers a welcome refreshment on warm days 💦. You cross to the other side of the river via a bridge and reach the meadows and floodplain forests near Grießau.
The final section leads you through an open, friendly valley landscape back to Elbigenalp, the cultural center of the Lech Valley. This varied stage ends here, having harmoniously combined nature, history, and tranquil waterscapes 💚.
Hotel (example): Hotel Stern
distance
climb
descent
duration
Day 6
From Elbigenalp to Holzgau
Your hike begins in Elbigenalp and initially leads you along pleasant paths along the banks of the Lech towards Bach. The sound of rushing water accompanies you for several kilometers through an open, peaceful valley landscape 🌊🕊️. You then ascend gently via a forest path and reach a small chapel before the trail continues toward Seesumpf.
From here, the route leads further uphill through the Benglerwald forest to the valley station of the Jöchelspitzbahn cable car. Those who wish can comfortably gain some altitude by taking the cable car. At the top, the summit cross at Lachenkopf and the Lechtal Mountain Hay Museum invite you to take a short break and enjoy the beautiful views ⛰️✨. A brief detour to the Modertal Waterfall offers a special nature experience within a narrow rock gorge 💧.
The trail continues through the quiet landscapes near Schigge and across wooden boardwalks through untouched nature toward Stockach. After the descent, you reach the Höhenbach Valley, where the Simms Waterfall and Café Uta invite you for a rest. From here, you make your way back to Holzgau.
Just before reaching the village, you arrive at the famous Holzgau Suspension Bridge, which hovers high above the Höhenbach Gorge. Those who are brave enough can cross it and dare a look into the depths – an impressive conclusion to this stage 🌉✨. The path then leads comfortably into the village center of Holzgau, where this diverse hiking day ends in a peaceful atmosphere 💚.
Hotel (example): Posthotel Lechtal
distance
climb
descent
duration
Day 7
From Holzgau to Lechleiten (Warth)
Your hike begins in the picturesque village of Holzgau, famous for its artistically painted house facades. After just the first few steps, you leave the village and follow the Lechweg through a diverse landscape towards Hägerau. Along field paths and quiet riverside trails, the shimmering turquoise Lech accompanies you, having already impressively shaped its valley here 🌊🕊️.
At the waterfall near Hägerau, a small Kneipp facility invites you to take a refreshing break. You continue on the Jochweg, which gradually leads you higher into the valley, repeatedly offering beautiful views of the Lech Valley ⛰️✨.
In Steeg, you reach a vibrant heart of the valley. A break at the Sojer natural dairy or a short stop at the Aqua Nova adventure pool provides welcome opportunities for relaxation. Afterward, you leave the valley floor and follow the Panorama Trail, which runs high above the Lech. Deep below you, the river's characteristic turquoise flashes repeatedly between trees and rocks 🌿💧.
Via the former federal highway—which today winds quietly and naturally in gentle curves up the valley—you finally reach the high-altitude Walser villages. With sweeping views over the Lech Valley, you conclude this impressive stage in Lechleiten near Warth, amidst alpine expanse and silent mountain landscapes 💚.
Hotel (example): Berggasthaus Alpenrose
distance
climb
descent
duration
Day 8
From Lechleiten (Warth) to Lech am Arlberg
Your hike begins in Lechleiten above Warth, where expansive views over the upper Lech Valley and the Allgäu Alps unfold. From here, you follow the Lechweg back towards Warth. After a short time, you reach the idyllic Seebachsee lake, which forms a beautiful start to this stage with its calm waters 💧🌄.
In the center of Warth, you pass historical buildings such as the "Walserhus" and the Church of St. Sebastian, which bear witness to the traditional history of the Walser people. If you wish, you can take a short break at the "Wälder Metzge" and enjoy regional specialties 🧀🥨.
The trail then leads slightly downhill through fragrant mountain forests and continues further down the valley high above the Lech Gorge. A wooden bridge spans the young Lech at a particularly impressive point where the river flows powerfully through the narrow valley 🌊✨. On forest tracks and narrow paths, you continue hiking towards Grenztobel, crossing several small mountain streams that find their glittering way into the valley.
Passing the hamlet of Stubenbach, beautiful views of the Lech Valley and the surrounding peaks open up again and again. The path finally leads back into the center of Lech am Arlberg, where this diverse stage ends in a vibrant alpine atmosphere 💚.
Hotel (example): Hotel Lärchenhof
distance
climb
descent
duration
Day 9
From Lech am Arlberg to Formarinsee
Your hike begins in Lech am Arlberg and first leads you along the banks of the Lech through meadows and quiet valley sections towards Zug. The gentle murmur of the young river accompanies you for the first few kilometers, setting the tone for the alpine landscape 🌊🕊️.
Passing the idyllic Älpele, you continue hiking into the headwaters of the Lech. Across wooden boardwalks and small bridges, you follow the crystal-clear mountain water that emerges here from the ground in numerous springs. Soon, you will reach the point where the Formarinbach and Spullerbach streams unite – this is where the Lech officially begins its journey through the Alps 💧✨.
The trail now leads across wide alpine meadows towards Alpe Formarin. It is worth taking a short break at the Ibex Monument, as with a little luck, you might spot ibexes in the wild 🦌. You continue climbing via a meadow path, accompanied by impressive views of the surrounding peaks.
Finally, you reach Formarinsee, which lies shimmering in turquoise between the rugged mountains of the Lechtal Alps. A short detour to the lakeshore is the perfect moment to pause and consciously experience the origin of the Lech 🌄💙.
A special stage that leads you step by step from the valley back to the source of the wild river.
Hotel (example): Hotel Lärchenhof
distance
climb
descent
duration
Day 10
Departure or extension
After eventful hiking days along the Lech, it is time today to say goodbye or to consciously extend your trip a little longer. Lech am Arlberg offers ideal opportunities to quietly enjoy your last hours in the mountains.
If you want to start the day in a relaxed manner, you can use the Lech Card one last time and take the Rüfikopf cable car up the panoramic Rüfikopf mountain 🚡. Wide views over the mountain world, a panorama platform, small walking paths, and cozy places for refreshments await you at the top. A perfect spot to take a deep breath and let the impressions of the past days sink in 🌄🕊️.
Alternatively, a leisurely stroll through Lech am Arlberg is worthwhile. The village combines alpine elegance with warm hospitality. Cafés, small shops, and walking paths along the young Lech invite you to quietly experience the special atmosphere of the place ☕🌿.
If you are not ready to go home yet, you can extend the trip by a day and treat yourself to a very special conclusion:
A hike to the Freiburger Hütte or an excursion to the Formarinsee, the source of the Lech. Once at the top, a small loop around the turquoise lake is a perfect option – a quiet, powerful place that rounds off your hike in a special way 💙🏔️. Lingering here one last time, sitting on a bench, and watching the water is a wonderful moment of arrival.
Should you start your journey home, there is the option to conveniently travel back to Füssen by bus 🚌. This way, you reach your starting point or continue your journey home in a relaxed manner, taking all the impressions of this special hike with you.
No matter what you decide: The Lech, its landscapes, and its stories will accompany you for a long time – as a memory of a journey full of nature, tranquility, and time for yourself 🌿🕊️.
Requirements for hikers
The Lechweg follows various hiking trails, forest paths, and roads, and mostly runs through forests along the Lech river. On individual sections, particularly on the first stage from Lake Formarin, narrow paths lead over rocky passages and ledges, where some sure-footedness is required. It can be slippery in places when it rains. Overall, the Lechweg is technically easy and can be managed well with a good basic level of fitness. Along the way, there are always opportunities to continue by bus if your stamina starts to wane. You can also find a bench at every opportunity to linger and rest.
Summary
- Total approx. 125 km over 8 hiking days
- 9 nights including local charges/fees
- Breakfast
- Half board in Lechleiten
- Luggage transfer
- Lech Card for 2 days
- Bus ride to Lake Formarin
- Rüfikopf cable car ride
- Travel documents and GPS data
- Service hotline
- €1,090 per person in a double room
- €1,380 single room









Facts about the Lech
- The Lech is one of the last largely untouched wild rivers of the Alps
- The total length is approx. 256 kilometres
- Source at Lake Formarin (Vorarlberg) at 1,793 metres above sea level
- Empties into the Danube near Marxheim (Bavaria)
- The Tyrolean Lechtal has a population of about 5,000 inhabitants between Steeg and Forchach
- Over 70 larger and smaller tributaries
- The Lechweg is a long-distance hiking trail awarded the 'Leading Quality Trails - Best of Europe' certification
- The average discharge is around 114 cubic meters per second
Climate in the Lech Valley
The climate along the Lechweg ranges from alpine to subalpine and varies significantly depending on the altitude. At the source near Lake Formarin at almost 1,800 m, it is noticeably cooler and fresher, while the lower Lech Valley and Füssen already have milder, pre-alpine conditions. Summers are mostly pleasantly warm, with average temperatures between 15°C and 25°C in the valley. At higher altitudes, it can be cool and windy even in summer. Rain occurs regularly throughout the year, especially in July and August when short afternoon thunderstorms often form. After rain, paths can become slippery in places. The best time for a hike is from June to early October, when the trails are largely snow-free and temperatures are pleasant.
Cuisine along the Lechweg
Along the Lechweg, Tyrolean-Alpine cuisine and traditional Allgäu home cooking combine to create a real delight for hikers. In the inns (Gasthöfe) and alpine huts (Almen), regional products are highly valued: cheese from the Lech Valley, fresh trout from the Lech river, game specialties, as well as homemade dumplings (Knödel), Kasspatz'n (cheese noodles), or Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake dessert) are on the menu almost everywhere. In the Allgäu region, traditional cheese dairies, sweet apple fritters (Apfelküchle), or a cool wheat beer await you at the end of a stage. Whether a rustic mountain hut or a cozy inn in the valley, the Lechweg can not only be hiked but also tasted.