The “Schmelzhof’s Fabulous Four”– four fantastic ski tours starting from the Schmelzhof

The Schmelzhof is located right next to the cross-country ski track that leads to Zug and to the Lech winter hiking trail. The bottom stations of the Schlegelkopf and Rüfikopf mountain lifts are within close proximity and the nearest ski bus stop is a mere two minutes away. Whatever your preference –with alpine skis, touring skis, cross-country skis or on foot – the Schmelzhof offers the ideal starting point for numerous activities – not only for ski touring and cross-country aficionados, but also for those who prefer leisurely walking and hiking. We’ve selected four tours that we highly recommend you try. Read on and discover the “Schmelzhof’s Fabulous Four”…

1. The Madloch experience – one of the world’s most famous downhill runs

Starting from the Hotel Schmelzhof, the day begins with a bus ride to Zürs. The bus stop is only two minutes from the hotel. Alternatively, we can call you a taxi for the five-minute trip to Zürs. Upon your arrival in Zürs, you have two choices for your ascent up to the Madloch: you can already don your touring skis and make your way up the edge of the piste, or you can take the Seekopfbahn chairlift. From the top station, simply follow the signs for the famous Madloch ski route, one of the world’s longest and most scenic downhill runs, all the way down to Lech and back to the Schmelzhof. We recommend that only experienced skiers undertake this tour which is about 10 kilometres long. As an alternative, you can ascend with the Rüfikopf cable-car and ski the White Ring circuit to Zürs.

Detailed tour information

2. The Kriegerhorn tour – with breathtaking views as your reward

This ski tour up to the Kriegerhorn peak above Lech at an altitude of 2,123 metres (you can see it from the Schmelzhof terrace if you look in a westerly direction), is suitable for all ski tourers, including beginners, since the downhill run is on the secured piste. The tour starts right from Hotel Schmelzhof in the direction of Zug, taking you past the Hinterwies lift to the Rudalpe and on to Oberlech. Even here, the view is really beautiful. Continue on towards the Weibermahd lift, past the Kriegeralpe and up to the Kriegerhorn summit where you’ll be rewarded for all your efforts with views that are nothing short of breathtaking. As previously mentioned, the descent takes you down the piste back to Lech.

Detailed tour information

3. The Bärenkopf tour – perfect if time is limited

Comparatively short, but scenic and very enjoyable, this tour, which also starts from the Schmelzhof, takes you up to the Bärenkopf summit at an elevation of 1,706 metres. You can even start this tour in the afternoon and take in the sunset from the peak. Starting from Hotel Schmelzhof, cut over the field passing the Hotel Bergheim on the left. Next, take a left turn and head towards the Madloch. After passing the mountain shelter, keep to your right and continue up to the Bärenkopf summit. To go back down to the valley, you can either retrace your tracks and return via the same route or you can ski down the piste to Zug. From there you can walk along the winter hiking trail to Lech and the Schmelzhof. Or you can take the bus back to Lech.

Detailed tour information

4. The cross-country ski trail into the Zügertäli valley – superbly scenic

Step into your cross-country skis and savour the delight of setting off along the immaculately groomed trail right on the Schmelzhof’s doorstep. With no real uphill or downhill sections, the flat trail takes you to Zug and follows the course of the river Lech into the idyllic Zugertal valley. The trail ranks as one of the most beautiful of its kind and is groomed for both classic and skating style cross-country skiing. We recommend you stop at the Älpele – a warm and welcoming hut, perfect for a rest and a tasty bite to eat – located right next to the trail. The total distance you want to cover is entirely up to you – from the Schmelzhof to Zug and back, to the Älpele and back or even further if you wish. And you don’t necessarily need cross-country skis either. You can walk this tour following the winter hiking trail. Our tip: From mid-February onwards, the Zugertal valley is bathed in glorious spring sunshine.

Detailed tour information

So, these are the “Schmelzhof’s Fabulous Four”. Of course, there are countless other beautiful tours you can undertake from the hotel. Simply ask us and we’ll be delighted to offer you further suggestions and tips for unforgettable days in the mountains.

Photo: Lech Zürs Tourism, Sepp Malaun