Stefan Thonhofer

Skischule Tannberg Lech – Exclusive Mountain Guiding Arlberg GmbH (EMG) is a renowned ski and snowboard school based in the picturesque Austrian Alps, operating primarily in the esteemed winter tourism destination of Lech am Arlberg. Founded in 2009 by a collective of seasoned skiers and snowboarders, the company has become synonymous with personalised mountain guiding, high-quality instruction, and an unwavering focus on guest experience. Committed to fostering a welcoming and international environment, EMG provides an expansive array of winter sports, from private coaching and children's lessons to ski tours and heli-skiing, attracting families, luxury travellers, and adventure enthusiasts from around the world.

Skischule Tannberg Lech – Exclusive Mountain Guiding Arlberg GmbH was founded in 2009 in the Arlberg region of Austria by a group of passionate, long-time mountain sports enthusiasts. These founders were united by their deep love of the mountains and a shared vision for providing a more personal, guest-oriented approach to ski and snowboard instruction. The early years of EMG’s existence were characterised by its dedication to private and small-group lessons, aiming to ensure that each client received customised coaching based on their individual abilities and aspirations. This close-knit team sowed the seeds for the distinctive philosophy and reputation for service that the school enjoys today.

EMG’s approach to education and instruction is at the heart of its distinctiveness in the Arlberg region. Emphasising individual attention, the school was an early adopter of small-group models for children, limiting classes to six students in order to maximise personal guidance and learning gains. Foxies Kinderland, a dedicated facility for beginners, further demonstrates EMG's commitment to accessible, high-quality snowsports education. Their instructors are not only certified professionals proficient in multiple languages—including German, English, Dutch, and Swedish—but are recognised for their patient, friendly, and engaging teaching style. Through partnerships with local hotels and cooperation with luxury travel agencies, the school has cultivated a rich culture of ski and snowboard instruction for a diverse, international clientele.

Throughout its development, Skischule Tannberg Lech – Exclusive Mountain Guiding Arlberg GmbH has achieved several significant milestones:

• 2009 – Foundation: EMG was established to provide private coaching and small-party instruction tailored to the abilities and goals of each guest.
• 2019 – Expansion into Lech: The opening of Skischule Tannberg in Lech am Arlberg and a local office at the Fux restaurant marked a new era of growth.
• 2019 – Launch of Foxies Kinderland: Creating a purpose-built children’s ski area with private magic carpets and a heated igloo, the school established itself as a leader in children’s snowsports education.
• Diverse offerings: EMG now provides guiding and instruction for skiing and snowboarding, off-piste adventures, heli-skiing, splitboard tours, cross-country skiing, and snowshoe hikes.
• International reach: Lessons are offered in several languages, catering to families and guests from around the globe while maintaining strong relationships with local hotels and high-end travel agents.

The school is deeply embedded in the Lech winter tourism community, known for its guest-focused ethos, flexible lesson formats, and commitment to making every mountain experience memorable and rewarding.

As a company biography, EMG’s love life is best reflected in its passion for the mountains, winter sports, and the special connections it forges with guests. Parents praise the friendly atmosphere and delight in seeing their children thrive, while returning families and international guests frequently express their affection for the school’s warm, hospitable team. Children’s progress is celebrated through events like ski races and award ceremonies, and EMG’s fox mascot and playful educational traditions have won the hearts of young learners and their families alike.

EMG’s core ambition is to continually refine its personalised, high-quality approach to snowsports instruction and mountain experiences. The school aspires to further develop Foxies Kinderland, broaden its educational programs for children, and expand its suite of alpine activities. EMG is committed to nurturing its reputation as a friendly, accessible, and internationally-minded institution, serving families, luxury vacationers, and mountain enthusiasts. While growing its international relationships and footprint, the school remains focused on preserving its fundamental values: individual attention, exceptional service, and a deep-rooted passion for sharing the wonders of the Austrian Alps with each guest.