The Lech

The 264 km long river rises in Vorarlberg, flows through the Lech Valley in Tyrol and then past the Bavarian towns of Füssen, Schongau, Augsburg and Landsberg until it flows into the Danube at Rain.

The Lech and its significance

The name of the Lech was already coined by the Celts around 8 BC. The name "Licca" or "Lecha" meant "the stony one". If you take a look at the river bed with its characteristic gravel banks, which appear at low water, you can easily understand the name. Incidentally, in addition to stones, gold was also washed out of the river's sediments in the past. However, the river had a much greater economic significance due to its waterpower, which used to drive mills and is now used to generate electricity. In addition, the Lech also served as a natural border between Bavaria and Swabia, a fact that can still be traced today in the dialects of the two regions.

Hiking along the Lech

Along the Lech there is a lot to discover for vacationers and locals. For hikers, there is the "LechErlebnisWeg", a long-distance hiking trail on which you follow the course of the river from Landsberg to Füssen. On a distance of about 85 km, the idyllic river landscape alternates with breathtaking mountain panoramas. The Lechpark Pössinger Au is an excellent destination for a day trip. Here the route goes upstream past game reserves and Kneipp pools to Pitzling, where the dammed river invites you to swim. The reservoirs in Kaufering and Landsberg are also ideal for swimming.

Historical treasure on the banks of the Lech

The town of Landsberg on the banks of the Lech is well worth a visit. With its numerous historic buildings, lovely shops and boutiques and rich cultural offerings, the town is still an insider's tip. A special feature is the Karolinenwehr near Landsberg's old town. This four-tiered weir was built as early as the 14th century and was extended in the following centuries and used to drive the mills. The Lech is spanned by a wide bridge, which is a wonderful place for pedestrians to stroll along.

For more information about the Ammersee, visit the website of the the Ammersee-Lech Tourism Association.