FAQ Weinberg Arlberg 2026

First things first, what is Weinberg Arlberg exactly?

Weinberg Arlberg is multi-faceted but it fundamentally serves as a meeting point – a place for the exchange of ideas and personal interaction. Some of the greatest minds in the wine world share their knowledge and vision for the future in panel discussions covering everything from engaging Gen Z with wine to anti-alcohol sentiment and health. Wonderful tastings and masterclasses are presented by expert critics, international journalists and Masters of Wine who delve the evolution and potential of varietals from Riesling to Furmint and renowned regions such as Bordeaux take centre stage. But above all, it is about having fun – enjoying and discovering wines and exceptional cuisine, themed dinners and tastings, personally meeting and hearing from your favourite (or new favourite) winemakers and chefs. And all of this takes place in the renowned alpine village of Lech, right at the start of winter, so naturally it is complemented by a first-class programme of winter sports and art.  There is something for everyone to enjoy!

Who is it for? 

What makes Weinberg Arlberg special is that it isn’t a trade fair or a festival or a standard premium getaway. It is for anyone – professionals and consumers – with an interest or affinity for excellent wines, gourmet food, winter sports or who is simply looking for an exclusive holiday and food for thought – literally! There are no queues or crowds at Weinberg Arlberg even though it is attended by some of the world’s most renowned wine personalities, producers and chefs. Guests can join just for a day or two or stay for the entire duration from 4-13 December. They have the freedom to take part in numerous events or just pick one favourite topic or variety – it is entirely up to them.

Why is it held in Lech?

Lech might be a small village perched around 1,450 metres above sea level on the Arlberg mountain but it punches well above its weight when it comes to fine wine and cuisine. That’s because its stunning natural environment and first-class winter sports offerings in central Europe, equidistant to most European wine regions, have long made it a mecca for discerning guests. As a result, Lech has earnt the moniker of ‘World Gourmet Village’ and has the most starred restaurants and cellars per capita of anywhere in the world. But what makes it unique is that this world-class indulgence is all available in a cosy village where the hotels, Lechwelten conference centre, restaurants and nightlife are readily accessible by foot or gondola in central Europe, we could also add that Lech is situated at the heart of most European wine regions. You can’t help but meet new friends and rekindle old acquaintances in such an intimate atmosphere. 

How do I take part?

That’s the easy part – whittling down which of the 40 or so events to attend might be more difficult! You can see the details of all the events and download the full programme online. Weinberg Arlberg has been designed to offer the ultimate flexibility. Individual tickets can be purchased for every event. For those who fancy making a day of it, day passes giving access to three events plus lunch are available for Sunday 6 December,  Monday 7 December, Tuesday 8 December, Wednesday 9 December as well as a special combined Grand Opening ticket for both the Bordeaux and Riesling tastings. For the ultimate immersive experience (or early Christmas present), a Week Pass provides access to all 14 lectures, discussions and tastings from Saturday 5 to Wednesday 9 December, including the famous Best Bottle Award which this year will feature Riesling.

How much does it cost?

That depends on how many events you want to enjoy but the flexible nature of the ticket system means you can select just the events of most interest. The prices range from free for some parties and tastings to €95 for talks and panel discussions hosted by international experts (including lunch). Wine dinners start at €175. Accommodation in Lech is also available for under €100 per night at the start of the winter season – just in case you needed an added incentive to attend!

Where should I stay?

Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation, with some of the area’s most renowned family-run four- and five-star hotels partnering with Weinberg Arlberg. Many of these partner properties also offer special arrangements and exclusive packages for Weinberg Arlberg guests. The short distances between all the hotels, the event locations and ski area mean guests are guaranteed a relaxed and seamless stay.

How do I get to Lech?

Lech is surprisingly easy to get to even from outside Europe and is readily accessible by public transport. The closest international airports are Zurich and Innsbruck, which offers short-haul flights. Munich is the next best option rather than Vienna, which is located on the other side of Austria! Upon arrival there are taxis and shuttles (click here to book online) to Lech as well as regular train connections from Zurich Airport station, Innsbruck main station and Munich main station to Langen am Arlberg station or St. Anton am Arlberg. During the winter season, it is then a short bus journey from Langen am Arlberg to Lech Dorfhus (timetables available here). Alternatively, Lech Zürs can be reached by car from the west via Bregenz and Klostertal, or from the east via Innsbruck and Stanzertal.

Do I need to be a wine expert?

Absolutely not! Although with so many intriguing discoveries on offer, you might feel like an expert by the end! Art and architecture enthusiasts can’t miss a guided visit to Skyspace-Lech created by acclaimed American artist James Turrell before hitting the ski slopes during the day. There are also many relaxed live music events such as Hiphop & Bubbles and Pop & Pour not to mention the Köstlicher Ring which offers a culinary journey through Lech, featuring a different courses paired with wines at four hotels under the banner of ‘how time shapes flavour’.

So, I can ski in Lech at the start of December?

Yes, the ski season begins on Wednesday 2 December 2026. Lech Zürs is part of Ski Arlberg, one of the most extensive ski areas in the world, with an average of nine metres of natural snowfall each winter. Its reliable early-season skiing and snowboarding conditions make early December the perfect time to enjoy the pristine snow before the main holiday season kicks off. There are also plenty of other winter activities to experience from winter hiking and tobogganing to horse-drawn sleigh rides.