Lech or Murren - in January

I wasn't that impressed with the skiing around Mürren. It may have been because the temperatures were a little too warm the day I visited, but I also found most of the pistes too short for my liking. There probably is some winter walking there, but I didn't see any. The skiing on the other side of the valley, however, is fantastic. If you're considering the Berner Oberland for winter sports, stay in Wengen or Grindelwald. You'll have much easier access to both the First and Männlichen/Kleine Scheideg ski areas, each of which have plenty of winter walking and sledging opportunities. I had some of my best ever Alpine ski experiences on the First pistes. I think the skiing in Lech is even better, although I'm not sure if they offer winter walking. And Lech's pretty isolated. If you're not there for winter sports, there isn't much to do.

All right, I'll start by admitting I've never been to Lech (love to though). I have heard that it is very upscale remote resort town in the Arlberg region of Austria. Everything there is at the top price level as it is somewhat exclusive. Lots of German skiers. It is high above the tree line and pictures of the town make it look rather bleak. I think it appeals to top level skiers for whom price is no object.
OK, I have been to Muerren, and I love it. It will still be a bit pricey because of the strength of the Swiss Franc. But there are a ton of activities for nonskiers, and lots of easier slopes for beginners (and great ski instructors too.) There is sledding, your lift pass will also include all the local railways, so you can down to Interlaken for a day, or over to Wengen and Kleine Scheidegg to go up to the Jungfraujoch. You will still have to pay for the ride up the Jungfrau, but you only have to pay the fare for above Kleine Scheidegg. Lots of British people here, and the town is carfree and drop dead cute. Excellent cheese I might add.

"It is high above the tree line and pictures of the town make it look rather bleak." You might be seeing pictures of Oberlech or Zürs, but I would not describe either, or Lech, as "bleak". It's one of the most beautiful corners of the Alps I've yet seen, although it is pricey.

I stand corrected. I'm probably thinking Zurs.

I am curious - why are you considering just these two areas? Out of so many choices in either country, these seem odd picks for beginner skiers, with 0% beginner terrain at both areas. websites with useful info include onthesnow.com and http://www.j2ski.com/ Think snow!
Beth

I've been to both at various times of the year. Lech fits your description, although finding something this late may be difficult, Europeans plan well in advance. There are loads of other places to go as well, Kitzbuhel, Hinterglemm-Saalbach, Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis, Gstaad (still in Berner Oberland), Verbier, Davos, etc. are all good resort areas with plenty to do for skier and non-skier. the j2ski website is excellent for your needs.

Dear All, thank you very much for all the replies!
If someone has more information, please write it down! Thanks!