An exhilarating challenge awaits skiers of all abilities each January in some of Austria’s most sensational racing slopes. From the moment the race signal is sounded, thousands of refined speed skiers enter a swirling loop of pristine pistes that link to form the longest circular route in the world. Within the astonishing alpine region of Vorarlberg, the resorts of Lech, Zürs, Zug and Oberlech form a perfect circle of luxury along the legendary White Ring of Arlberg.

The White Ring attracts winter sports enthusiasts from all over the world to prove themselves. Arlberg is Austria’s answer to Klosters in Switzerland, or Courchevel in France and the track has international cult status, attracting the best skiers each year, as well as Dutch royalty and Russian oligarchs.

Lech is dubbed the cradle of Alpine skiing and this designer resort is the start and finish of the White Ring. The ravishing route ascends to 5,500 metres for incredible viewing opportunities at the Rüfikopf and Madloch, taking in Zug and Oberlech, before swooping back down into the thunderous applause at the finale back in Lech.

The first White Ring of Arlberg race took place in 2006 to coincide with the 50^th anniversary of the circuit first opening. Since then, 1,000 skiers each year have joined the frenetic stampede to post the fastest time for the circuit. The current course record of 44.10 was set by Marcus Weiskopf in 2010, beating the previous mark set by 2006 Olympic downhill champion – and local hotelier – Patrick Ortlieb. As well as Olympians, the challenge also attracts skiers of all abilities, from novices to serious alpine enthusiasts.

A speed test takes place two days before the event to determine who goes pole position. Then the main race begins on Rüfikopf mountain where, every 100 seconds, groups of 20 people hurtle down the slopes. Obstacles include five downhill runs and ropeways, an intensive ascent, and a tricky backcountry sprint ahead of a booming ovation at the finish.  Highlights include the Omeshorn mountain to Zug via the Schüttbodenlift, Trittalpbahn and Madloch ski runs all the way up the Balmengrat down to Lech. Competitors can also begin the White Ring in Lech am Alberg and enjoy smooth skiing amid stunning scenery, all the way down to Zurs before the thrill of the Madloch descent Zug and then Oberlech. At the top of the Kriegerhorn, explore Zug Hochlicht before skiing down from Oberlech into Lech and toasting your best time with gluhwein in the Krone bar.

Lech overall has over 172 miles of intermediate cruising slopes in stunning alpine scenery which featured in Bridget Jones Diary 2, featuring Renee Zellweger. Lech is for fur-clad visitors dripping in diamonds and there are horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowshoe walks, a climbing wall and a toboggan run from Oberlech to Lech. There is plenty to do off the slopes to entertain the elegant skier with exclusive bars and restaurants.

The Oberlech catacombs form an underground network of tunnels linking various hotels with the cable station. Lech is luxurious for sure but the most exclusive resort in the entire Arlberg region and possibly the whole of Austria is St Christoph. Here the Arlberg Hospiz is an exclusive haven dating back to 1386, as refuge for travellers. It is also the birthplace of the Arlberg Ski Club founded in 1901.  The cellars of St Christolph are over 620 years old housing 18,000 fine vintages as well as an exclusive 1865 Chateau Yquem. The Hospiz Alm has hosted the Austrian Royal Family and Jon Bon Jovi. Stay in such opulent luxury but for fun venture out to sample St Anton’s legendary après scene.

The White Ring Lech am Arlberg is one of the best competitive races for amateurs making for a most spectacular race. With so much energy it is only natural that there would be a legendary after party afterwards. People flock from all over the globe to take part in this exhilarating circular race, feeling the wind in their hair as they race towards the end. Find out more here.