Skihütte Schneggarei
Ski lodges need not be stodgy. The Schneggarei, a few steps away from the Almhof and sitting at the base of the lift from Lech town, is a marvelous example of modern Alpine architecture and atmosphere. Ski-boot clad guests gather for beers and oven-baked pizzas, or sit a little longer over delicious steaks, schnitzel, and fondue (order Raclette in advance if you’re so inclined). The hut’s woodwork is a sight to behold: high design meets local materials. Note the cool nailless benches and soaring atrium. The airy yet rustic design comes from Gerold and Katia Schneider and has won its share of architecture prizes (including the Tourismus Innovationspreis in 2003, the Vorarlberger Holzbaupreis in 2003, the Österreichischer Bauherrenpreis, in 2004, and “Best of Winter” in 2005). The Schneggarei is also a family affair: brother and manager Andreas Schneider has been bringing people together here for daytime and aprés-ski fun since 2003.