travel guide
bregenzerwald
su mm er 2010 Ideas and Addresses. Your guide through the Bregenzerwald.
Editor: Bregenzerwald Tourismus GmbH,
Photographs:
Impulszentrum 1135, 6863 Egg
Adolf Bereuter (Cover, p. 79/88/94/98), Andreas Riedmiller (p. 2/23/38/47/63/66/70/73/90/96),
Design by:
Franz Oberhauser (p. 8), Christoph Lingg (p. 10/11/12/13/17/
broger grafik, Andelsbuch
19/20/24/25/26/27/28/29/36/40/41/50/53/56/74/76/92), Sulzberg Tourismus (p. 14), Hittisau Tourismus
Printed by:
(p. 15/58), Bregenzerwald Tourismus (p. 16),
Druckhaus Gössler, Bezau
Christa Branz (p. 18/55), Kevin Artho (p. 21), Monika Albrecht (p. 22), Archiv LexLupo (p. 30),
Text by:
Frank Broger (p. 44), Dietmar Walser (p. 46/64),
Kinz Kommunikation
Armin Bischofberger (p. 48), SFG (p. 51), Stefan Bischof
Florian Aicher (p. 6–7, 66–67, 68–69, 70–71, 74–75)
(p. 52), Peter Mathis (p. 54), Robert Kalb (p. 59), Lingenau
Kurt Bracharz (p. 88–89)
Tourismus (p. 62), Roswitha Natter (p. 68), „Die Vorarlberger Barockbaumeister“, Franz Dieth
Cartography:
(p. 71), VKW (p. 72), Bregenzer Festspiele (p. 77),
Aries Werbegrafik-Design
Archiv Symphonieorchester Vorarlberg (p. 78),
Text and planning of hiking routes: Dr. Rudolf Berchtel
Archiv Bezau Beatz (p. 80), Ludwig Berchtold (p. 81/91/93),
© Land Vorarlberg für Geodaten
Photographer: Robert Fessler. Copyright: Angelika Kauffmann Museum, Schwarzenberg (p. 82),
Data and prices subject to change. Typographical
Hanno Metzler (p. 83), Riefensberg Tourismus (p. 84),
errors cannot be excluded.
Bruno Klomfar (p. 85), Maria-Anna Moosbrugger
© Bregenzerwald Tourismus Februar 2010
(p. 100), Krumbach Tourismus (p. 101), Foto Felder (p. 102), Peter Rigaud (p. 103)
contents
land & lives................................... 2 The Bregenzerwald 2 For your orientation 4 Living space 6 Bregenzerwald Guest Card 8 hiking.............................................. 9 Things to know 10 Panoramic routes 12 Alp paths 17 Summit tours 20 Water routes 22 Cultural tours 25 Nordic walking paths 28 Hiking with dogs 30 active summer............................. 31 Mountain biking & cycling 32 Mountain biking 33 Cycling 36 Climbing 38 Outdoor specialists 40 Fishing grounds 42 Paragliding 46 Bregenzerwald Golf Park 47 Indoor & outdoor tennis courts 48 family tips.................................... 49 Rambling with the pram 50 Kids’ programme 55 Day trip tips – Bregenzerwald 59 Day trip tips – Around Lake Constance 60
barrier free................................ 61 Barrier-free rambling 62 Barrier-free viewing experience 64 culture.......................................... 65 Architecture 66 Bregenzerwald werkraum 68 Au Guild 70 Journeys to architecture and the culture of wood 72 Everyday culture 74 Schubertiade Schwarzenberg 76 Bregenz Festival 77 Vorarlberg Symphony Orchestra 78 Cabaret & village culture 79 Exhibitions & museums 82 Cultural trips 86 dining out.................................... 87 Bregenzerwald culinary delights region 88 KäseStrasse 90 BERGGUT – good things from the Bregenzerwald 91 Exceptional specialties 92 well-being ................................... 95 Health hotels 96 Wellness hotels 97 Wellness days 98 Water and Moor 100 Natural cosmetics 102 Vorarlberg How to reach Vorarlberg
103 104
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the bregenzerwald
To start with, let us introduce you to the Bregenzerwald. Around 30,000 people live here, in 22 villages in total. The Bregenzerwald locals – “Wälder” as they are known – are confident, independent people, proud of their roots yet receptive to new things too. You will notice the successful, courageous blend of the traditional and the modern when you look at the architecture and experience the craftsmanship. Both disciplines are closely interwoven, and are a symbol of that which the locals of the Bregenzerwald are experts in: appreciation of art, of beauty, the creation of pleasure, both well thought-out and practical. This interplay is both visible and perceptible in many places.
Sensitive Many of the hotels, guest houses and farms combine the old with the new, or have been completely rebuilt with sensitivity in recent years. Wood plays an essential part in all this. In the well-tended inns and restaurants, the chefs are masters of pepping up regional specialities, making them into magnificent creations. Most of the produce used comes from local farms. They are all small farms, and are managed carefully and imaginatively by families. The bestknown Bregenzerwald speciality is cheese, especially the tasty alpine cheese. The informative stations and delightful events of the KäseStrasse Bregenzerwald impart impressions of cheese culture.
the bregenzerwald
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Soothing The Bregenzerwald landscapes are balsam for the eye – and the soul. A shapely combination of gently undulating hills, expansive plateaux, romantic river valleys and impressive peaks – ideal for active people and lovers of nature. The farmers are largely responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the cultivated landscape. Typical of the Bregenzerwald is the three-layer cultivation of the fields: (valley – mountain pasture – high mountain pasture).
Informative This brochure is your companion on your journey of discovery through the Bregenzerwald. It contains numerous addresses – from sights and day-trip destinations – and a multitude of tips for stimulating leisure activities: from selected thematic hiking paths through to outdoor and family-orientated programmes, right through to pampering wellness days offered by some of the hotels. We also inform you about the highlights awaiting you in our cultural calendar, the special features of our architecture and craftsmanship, and share with you interesting facts about culinary delights and the Bregenzerwald cheese culture.
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Inspired For a rural region, the cultural calendar in the Bregenzerwald is anything but provincial! The major festival in the region is the Schubertiade Schwarzenberg. Many guests combine visits to the Bregenz Festival – known for its spectacular opera performances on the lake stage – with holidays in the Bregenzerwald.
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View from the Diedamskopf towards Sibratsgfäll
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for your orientation
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for your orientation
land & lives
hiking
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family tips
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culture
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living space
Travelling the Bregenzerwald always means having to overcome dizzy heights to start with: from Bregenz you take the Pfänder, from the Rhine Valley the valley side which ascends 500 m, from the north you take the Sulzbergstock, from the east the Riedberg or Hochtannberg pass, from the south the Furkajoch or Faschinajoch.
spectrum which, right at the start of tourism, had travellers extolling the “charming landscape” as an “enclosed park” whilst at the same time shuddering at the “Siberian exile” on the wild, upper course of the Ache. A valley area of contrasts, borders, crossings.
Crossings Cross-border experiences also leave Up and over is the way to go – the most their mark on the locals – they know how to set themselves apart from impressive views are from the north outside. Yet the scarce rural areas and the west – and a space is revealed which, in all its diversity, is completely have never been sufficient to feed the population. The locals had to get different to all that surrounds it, with moving, cross borders, leave behind the Bregenzerache uniting it all. Your their homes and families. This took route takes you through gorges and on many different forms: the nomadic flat hollows – wide between the hills existence of alpine animal husbandry of the foothills of the Alps around Alberschwende and Lingenau, narrow (home, mountain pasture, alp → between the mountains of the foothills page 88), or in the form of seasonal migrant work (baroque master of the Alps around Andelsbuch and Bezau, squeezed in between the alpine builders, Au Guild → page 70), outbound commuting or even emigration peaks of the Kanisfluh, Diedams (to America in the 19th century in parkopf, Zitterklapfen and Widderstein ticular). Flexibility, ideas and self-help around Schnepfau, Au, Schoppernau, were essential to stave off poverty. Warth and Schröcken. This correlates The area was only sparsely populated with the division into the Vorderfor a long time: only plot names give wald, Mittelwald and Hinterwald rise to assumptions about the border (front, central and rear regions of the between Celtic and Rhaeto-Romanic Bregenzerwald) – a topographical
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This culture has succeeded in maintaining its vitality. Innovation and flexibility based on the acquired continue today in initiatives such as the werkraum (→ page 68) and have turned the Bregenzerwald into a model European region.
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Hard cheese and lace It was during this time that the region developed in the form you see today. Rational, mercantile methods gained importance in agriculture, desertedness became characteristic of the Vorderwald to the Mittelwald, production of hard cheese grew (alpine dairy → page 74) to such
a sustainable extent that the first dairy farm school in the Habsburg Empire was established. The new rulers were the cheese barons who amassed staggering wealth with the products of the new form of agriculture, and textile manufacturers who supplied material produced by the textiles home industry (decoration and taste → page 75) before the railway provided factories in the Rhine valley with workers after 1902. Such changes were also accompanied by resistance – Franz Michael Felder, author and spokesman of the revolt, is still considered an exceptional character (Franz Michael Felder Museum → page 85) in the valley today, and which is why one’s own house and home are tenaciously clung to. New sources of income have to be continuously developed – the multitude of manual skills is proof of this.
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Damüls’ Mittagsspitze
cultures. It was not until the High Middle Ages that Mehrerau Monastery in Bregenz encouraged the population of the area upwards of the Bregenzerache. From above, coming the opposite direction, you come across a second wave of population with the Walsers. The particle “Wald” (forest, wood) found in many of the names of places makes it clear how undeveloped this settlement area was for a long time. Naturally, the locals gladly take advantage of this remoteness: interesting as a hunting ground at best for the feudal rulers, extensive autonomy was allowed to develop which went down in literature as a “peasants’ republic”. It ended with the brief Bavarian occupation (1806 – 1814) as a result of the realignment of Europe by Napoleon.
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bregenzerwald guest card
View of the Biberkopf, close to Warth
There is lots to discover in the Bregenzerwald mountains. Rambling and hiking paths take you to the loveliest spots, and tell stories. Events are held. The Bregenzerwald Guest Card is your “ticket” to these mountain experiences. The Bregenzerwald Guest Card is available to all visitors who spend at least three nights in the Bregenzerwald, and is included in the accommodation price. validity 1 May to 31 October 2010 partner municipalities Alberschwende, Andelsbuch, Au, Bezau, Bizau, Damüls, Doren, Egg, Hittisau, Krumbach, Langenegg, Lingenau, Mellau, Riefensberg, Schnepfau, Schoppernau, Schröcken, Schwarzenberg, Sibratsgfäll, Sulzberg, Fontanella and Sonntag in the Große Walsertal issuing offices Bregenzerwald Tourismus (Opening times → see reverse), from all cable car operators and tourist offices in the partner municipalities.
Includes the following public buses “The Bregenzerwald rural bus” as far as Bregenz and Dornbirn (except the town bus), Lech, Raggal and Fontanella/Sonntag cable cars • Brüggelekopf chair lift, Alberschwende • Andelsbuch cable cars • Bezau cable cars • Mellau cable cars • Diedamskopf cable cars, Au-Schoppernau • Uga Express, Damüls • Steffisalp Express, Warth • Großwalsertal cable cars, Sonntag • Faschina cable cars swimming pools Au, Bezau, Egg, Hittisau, Mellau, Schoppernau, Schwarzenberg You are also entitled to numerous reductions from our partners.
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Hiking and rambling are the best ways to discover the beauties and mysteries of the Bregenzerwald. Miles of clearly and uniformly sign-posted paths take you to alpine 足pastures where cheese is made, across 足historical wooden bridges, to magnificent vantage points, to herb gardens.
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things to know
Hikers above the mountain pasture settlement of Schönenbach
Uniformly signposted paths and hiking maps make it easier to find your way around the mountains. Practical: the ramble and hiking packages offered by Bregenzerwald Tourismus. Bregenzerwald hiking map All hiking routes and important information to do with cable cars, huts and alpine inns are enclosed in the hiking map. The hiking map is available from Bregenzerwald Tourismus, in tourist offices and in hotels. Hiking paths on the Internet Numerous hiking tips and routes can be found at: www.vorarlberg.at/wanderwege
Recommended reading: “Wanderbuch Bregenzerwald“ by R. Berchtel, published by Tyrolia Verlag (in German only)
Hiking deals You can book selected hiking deals directly from Bregenzerwald Tourismus. For further information, please see www.bregenzerwald.at/uk Signposting of the hiking paths All hiking paths are clearly and uniformly signposted according to the Vorarlberg hiking path concept. The hiking paths are divided into three degrees of difficulty:
Walking or rambling paths: Easy
Mountain hiking paths: Non-slip footwear suitable for wearing in the mountains is recommended
Steep alpine trail: Suitable only for those with mountain experience, who are sure-footed and have no fear of heights
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Respect your boundaries Forests, fields, rivers and lakes offer precious space for leisure and relaxation activities. Forests in particular have an important protective function. The Vorarlberg state government’s “Wohngemeinschaft Natur” initiative to encourage living in harmony with nature offers locals and visitors information about how to deal respectfully with nature. It is in with this in mind that we also appeal to you to respect preservation and conservation areas. The most important recommendations are that you stay on signposted paths and keep the countryside clean.
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Action in the event of an emergency 1. Move the injured person from the source of danger (rockfall, further fall) 2. Check the vital functions 3. Use your mobile to call the emergency services: • 144 alpine emergencies, Vorarlberg • 112 European emergency number, from all networks: switch off your mobile phone, switch back on. Instead of your PIN, dial »112« 4. Administer First Aid
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For your safety • The correct equipment is a central safety factor: mountain or hiking boots, good outdoor clothing worn in l ayers, a functional top to change in to, sunglasses and sun cream. • Don’t embark upon a tour on your own. Always inform others about your tour. • Only set off into the mountains if you are in good physical condition. • Take (hot) drinks and a snack with you. • Set off in good time so that you are back when it is still light. It gets dark relatively early in the autumn, for example. • Check the weather forecast before you set off. Stay in the valley if it is misty. Should the weather deteriorate, return to the valley. • Take orientation aids with you: a hiking map, perhaps an altimeter. • Stick to signposted paths. • Applies particularly to tours in the high mountains: take with you a bivouac sack, a head light, mobile phone and First Aid kit.
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Out and about in the area of Mellau and Damüls
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panoramic routes
The Niedere with a view of the Vorderwald
Andelsbuch – float like a butterfly Andelsbuch’s very own mountain – the “Niedere” – is known not only for its magnificent view from Lake Constance as far as the Swiss mountains: paragliders also appreciate its fantastic thermal currents. When the weather is good, you can see them floating like bright butterflies around the mountain and across the valley.
starting point Andelsbuch mountain station cable car destination Andelsbuch mountain station cable car itinerary mountain station cable car (1,530 m) – panoramic circular route (Baumgartnerhöhe – Niedere Höhe, 1,711 m – Niedere mountain inn) – mountain station cable car chances to stop off for a drink/food Niedere mountain inn
Difference in altitude: 180 m Trail category: white-red-white Total hiking time: 1½ hours Opening times of the cable cars T +43 (0)5512 2540
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starting point Mellau mountain station cable car destination Mellau mountain station cable car itinerary mountain station cable car (Roß stelle, 1,395 m) – Kanisalpe – Kanisfluh (2,044 m) – Wurzachalpe – Kanisalpe – Roßstelle cable car chances to stop off for a drink/food Wurzachalpe (during the alp season from mid/late June through to midSeptember), inns at the mountain station
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Mellau – in the land of the ibex The Kanisfluh is one of the most striking mountains in the Bregenzer wald. The rocky north side is visible from the valley, the southern slopes are green and sunlit. It offers the ideal habitat for ibex as well as for 930 different species of butterfly. The first part of the hike is easygoing, and follows an agricultural path. After you have passed the Kanis alp, the ascent begins on a narrow path which takes you to the top of the Kanisfluh. To descend, take the Wurzachalpe option back down to the mountain station.
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Kanis alp, close to Mellau
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Opening times of the cable cars T +43 (0)5518 2222-0
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Difference in altitude: 650 m Trail category: white-red-white Total hiking time: 3½ hours
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panoramic routes
Sulzberg with its Empire-style church
Sulzberg – protected by St Lawrence The gentle panoramic hike at an altitude of over 1,000 m takes you along the nature trail into the gently undulating hills of the Upper Bregenzerwald. The return journey is taken in good, pleasantly cool forest air. The church on the village square, renovated in 1828/29 by Alois Negrelli, the planner of the Suez Canal, is worth a visit. The church, constructed in Empire style, is dedicated to St Lawrence, the patron saint of shepherds, flocks and chefs.
starting point Sulzberg centre of town destination Sulzberg centre of town itinerary Sulzberg centre of town (1,013 m) – Hochsträß (1,025 m) nature trail – Sulzberg forest path chances to stop off for a drink/food Hochsträßstüble ramblers’ café, inns in Sulzberg
Difference in altitude: 15 m Trail category: yellow-white Total hiking time: 1½ hours
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starting point Hittisau-Reute destination Hittisau-Reute itinerary Hochhäderich (via Streichbrunnen alpe and Lochalpe) – Leckenholzalpen – Reute chances to stop off for a drink/food Hochhäderich mountain inn, Gasthof Alpenrose (Reute)
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Hittisau – along the Nagelfluh rock face on Hochhäderich Hochhäderich offers a magnificent view to the north as far as the Allgäu and, to the south, to the Bregenzerwald. You pass large rock faces made up of Nagelfluh rock which are very distinct here. In 2008, 14 towns and villages in the border area of Allgäu and Vorderwald established the “Nagelfluhkette National Park” which covers an area of around 400 km².
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Nagelfluhkette National Park
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Information: www.naturpark-nagelfluhkette.at
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Difference in altitude: 735 m Trail category: white-red-white Total hiking time: approx. 3 ¼ hours
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panoramic routes
View from Hochälpele
Schwarzenberg – poetic ramblings The famous poet Eduard Mörike (1804 – 1875) and his wife spent a summer holiday in Schwarzenberg in 1857. On the occasion of his 200th birthday, the municipality of Schwarzenberg built the “Eduard Mörike rambling path”. The full-day ramble takes you to the Hochälpele, whose magnificent view is a delight for visitors, including the Mörikes in their day. The path has signposts bearing poetic remembrance boards.
starting point Schwarzenberg-centre of town destination Schwarzenberg-centre of town itinerary Schwarzenberg-centre of town (696 m) – Hochälpele (1,463 m, via Gmeind, Hütte) – Gschwendtsattel – Lustenauer hut– Klausbergvorsäß – Schwarzenberg chances to stop off for a drink/food inns in Schwarzenberg, Hochälpele hut, Lustenauer hut
Difference in altitude: 770 m Trail category: white-red-white Total hiking time: 4½ hours Detailed directions are available from the tourist office.
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starting point car park Schönenbach destination car park Schönenbach itinerary car park Schönenbach – Schönenbachvorsäß (1,020 m) – Unterspitzalpe – Almisguntenalpe – Stoggertennalpe (1,500 m) – Osterguntenalpe – direction Kretzbodenalpe to Hänslervorsäß – car park chances to stop off for a drink/food Egender inn and alps (during the alp season from mid/late June through to mid-September),
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Bezau – from the loveliest mountain pasture to the alp Schönebach is only inhabited from June to September, and is one of the loveliest mountain pasture settlements in Vorarlberg. The village is located on a plateau between the Hirschberg and the Diedams kopf, home to a meandering brook. The ramble takes you to the Almisguntenalpe, which lies isolated in a col beneath the Diedamskopf. Just before the newly built Stogger tenn alpine hut, you arrive at the highest point on the ramble. The path along the Osterguntenbach takes you down to the car park.
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Mountain pasture settlement, Schönenbach
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Difference in altitude: 530 m Trail category: white-red-white Total hiking time: 3½ hours
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alp paths
Lecknersee in Lecknertal
Hittisau – the village with most alps The Lecknertal is located in Hittisau, the village with the most alps in Austria. A toll road takes you to the hiking car park. The route takes you along the sunny slope of the Hochhäderich-Hochgrat mountain range up to the Rohnehöhe (at 1,639 m). It is worth taking a short detour to the nearby Lecknersee. Along this mountain hiking path – whose 600 m difference in altitude makes it hard-going – are six alps, four of which are where milk is processed there and then.
starting point car park Lecknertal destination car park Lecknertal itinerary car park Lecknertal (980 m) – Juliansplattealpe – Schwarzenberger Plattealpe – Plattentischalpe – Rohnehöhe (1,639 m) – Rohnealpe – Glockenplattealpe – car park chances to stop off for a drink/food alps (during the alp season from mid/late June through to mid- September), Höfle inn
Difference in altitude: 660 m Trail category: white-red-white Total hiking time: 4½ hours
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Opening times of the cable cars T +43 (0)5510 600
culture
Difference in altitude: 700 m Trail category: white-red-white Total hiking time: 4½ hours
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starting point Damüls-mountain station Uga-Express destination Damüls centre or valley station Uga Express itinerary mountain station Uga-Express (1,800 m) – Ugaalpe – Hochblanken (2,068 m) – Ragazer Blanken (2,051 m) – Sünser Joch – Oberdamülser Alpe – Damüls (1,430 m) chances to stop off for a drink/food mountain inn Elsenalpstube, mountain inn Ugaalpe, Oberdamülseralpe (during the alp season from early July to late September), inns in Damüls
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Damüls – around the Wals settlement At an altitude of over 1,800 m, the Damüls circular tour starts with two peak crossings. After walking for about 1¼ hours, you reach the Hochblanken and then follow the mountain ridge at an altitude of almost 2,000 m for about 45 minutes until you reach the peak of the Ragazer Blanken. From here, the descent commences: via the Sünser pass as far as the Oberdamüls alp and on to Damüls. The mountain church in Damüls, with its exceptional fresco wall-painting depicting the Biblia pauperum dating back to 1484, is well worth a visit.
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Damüls round trip
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summit tours
Ascent to Zitterklapfen
Au – climbing up to the Zitterklapfen The Zitterklapfen is one of the most beautiful mountain peaks in the Bregenzerwald, with an impressive panorama. At the end of the idyllic Dürrenbachtal, the rocky massif arises. The first section takes you along a windy agricultural path in the forest up as far as the Annalperaualpe. It is here that the mountain hiking path commences. The final section in the rock to the peak demands that climbers be surefooted and not afraid of heights. The length and the difference in altitude make this into a very arduous mountain tour!
starting point Au-tourist office destination Au-tourist office itinerary Au-Argenau (tourist office 810 m) – Bodenvorsäß – Annalperaualpe – Zitterklapfen (2,403 m) – return to Au via the same way chances to stop off for a drink/food Inns in Au, Bergkristall hut (at Bodenvorsäß)
Difference in altitude: 1,600 m Trail category: white-blue-white Total hiking time: 9½ hours
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starting point Schröcken-centre of the town destination Schröcken-centre of the town itinerary Schröcken-centre of the town (1,250 m) – Fellealpe – Fürggele – Braunarlspitze (2,649 m) – Butzensee – Jägersteig – Schröcken chances to stop off for a drink/food inns in Schröcken
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Schöcken – up to the highest point The Braunarlspitze is the highest mountain in the Bregenzerwald. An agricultural path leads from Schröcken to the Fellealpe. This is the start of the mountain hiking path to the Fürggele, a pass to the Große Walsertal. From here, the alpine trail (which demands that hikers be sure-footed and not afraid of heights) takes you through the rocky part up to the peak, continues to the idyllic Butzensee and, via the Jägersteig, back to the Fellealpe. From here, you take the same path back to Schröcken.
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Körbersee with Braunarlspitze
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Difference in altitude: 1,400 m Trail category: white-blue-white Total hiking time: approx. 8½ hours
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water routes
Auer Ried with the Kanisfluh in the background
Au – delicate plants and wooden huts The path leads you from the Argen gorge into the Auer Ried nature reserve. The power of water, geology, nature conservation, ancient cultivated landscapes and the mighty Kanisfluh provide the subjects and the stations of the hike for those interested in nature. Over 50 rare species of plant thrive in the Auer Ried. Watercourses, gallery forests and damp biotopes run through the humid rough pastures and upland hay meadows with their numerous characteristic old hay huts.
starting point Au parish church destination Au parish church itinerary Au-Jaghausen (parish church, 791 m) – Auer Ried (1,050 m) nature trail (via Argenbachtal) – Jaghausen parish church chances to stop off for a drink/food inns in Au
Difference in altitude: 260 m Trail category: white-red-white Total hiking time: 2½ hours Detailed directions are available from the tourist office.
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starting point Hittisau-centre of town destination Hittisau-centre of town itinerary Hittisau-centre of town (790 m) – Känzele View (Häleisen, 820 m) – Kommabrücke (760 m) – Engenlochschlucht – Hittisau chances to stop off for a drink/food inns in Hittisau
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Hittisau – across bridges, through the gorge At the end of the Ice Age, a lake emerged at the foot of the Hochhäderich. The Bolgenach carved its path out of the cliffs which formed the “dam wall” of the lake. And so the Komma gorge arose. For almost 300 years, the Komma bridge has been crossing the river and the gorge at a height of 15 m: this bridge is the oldest covered bridge in the province. Along the Bolgenach, the water ramble takes you across a suspension bridge, past the wild yet romantic Engenloch gorge.
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Covered wooden bridge, close to Hittisau
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Detailed directions are available from the tourist office.
dining out
Difference in altitude: 60 m Trail category: yellow-white Total hiking time: 1½ hours
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water routes
Calc-tufa area in Lingenau
Lingenau – when water turns to stones The calc-tufa in Lingenau is one of the most unique calc-tufa formations north of the Alps, making it one of the outstanding geological phenomena in Vorarlberg. The water flows in small flumes over rocks as far as the riverbed of the Subersach, forming canopies and sinter curtains. Five information boards describe the geology and vegetation of this spectacle of nature. The nature trail takes you mainly across a passable gravel path with wooden bridges and steps.
starting point Lingenau swimming pool car park destination Lingenau swimming pool car park itinerary Lingenau swimming pool car park (680 m) – calc-tufa nature trail (610 m) – Rain – St. Anna chapel – car park swimming pool chances to stop off for a drink/food inns in Lingenau
Difference in altitude: 70 m Trail category: white-red-white Total hiking time: 1½ hours Detailed directions are available from the tourist office. The wooden bridges can be slippery when wet.
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starting point Schröcken parish church destination Warth itinerary Schröcken – Alpe Felle – Auenfeld – Körbersee – Hochtannbergpass – the old salt road to Warth chances to stop off for a drink/food Hotel Körbersee, inns in Schröcken and Warth
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Warth-Schröcken – on the trail of the Walsers The villages of Lech, Schröcken and Warth are typical Walser settlements. In the 14th century, the Tannberg area was populated by the Walsers, who came from the West Swiss canton of Valais. A brochure is available which describes the objects that tell the history of the Walsers.
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Having a rest at Kalbelesee
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Opening times of the cable cars T +43 (0)5583 3601-0 A detailed brochure is available from the tourist offices in Lech, Schröcken and Warth.
dining out
Difference in altitude: 450 m Trail category: yellow-white Total hiking time: 4 hours
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cultural tours
Hay landscape in Au
Au-Schoppernau – Au Alpine culture Insights into farming in the Bregenzerwald – and, hence, into a central part of the way of life here – can be gained on the new Au alpine culture trail. For economical reasons and in order to maintain the mountain’s sensitive nature, farmers in the Bregenzerwald have been farming their fields in several stages for hundreds of years: in the early summer, Alpine dairymen and their cows leave the valley and head for the mountain pasture, the so-called “Vorsäß”. They spend the summer on the high mountain pasture, and return to the mountain pasture in the autumn, and finally back to the valley.
starting point Au/Rehmen church destination Au/Rehmen church itinerary Long tour: Au/Rehmen church – Berbigen mountain pasture – Upper Sattelalpe – Liegstein – Alpe Sattelegg – Wika – Holand – Au/Rehmen church Short tour: Au/Rehmen church – Berbigen mountain pasture – Wika – Au/Rehmen church chances to stop off for a drink/food Inns in Au, Alpe Sattelegg (during the season, from mid-June to early September) Difference in altitude: approx. 750 m long tour, approx. 350 m short tour Trail category: white-red-white Total hiking time: Long tour approx. 6 hours, Short tour approx. 2 hours. A detailed brochure is available from the tourist offices in Au and Schoppernau.
cultural tours
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Information: Tourismusbüro Langenegg T +43 (0)5513 4101-14 www.langenegg.at
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Difference in altitude: 230 m Trail category: yellow-white and white-red-white Total hiking time: 3 hours
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Tranquillity Portal with its barefoot spiral made from natural materials. A wooden swing and comfortable wooden loungers invite you to rest and relax a while. The cool hiking path through the forest, which follows the white-red-white signposts through the lovely marshland and flora, offers the chance to hike further downwards towards the mouth of the Weissach. Now the lovely Achtal leads to the art portals created by wood artists along the Bregenzerache. From the old station, the trail takes you back along the road into the centre. chances to stop off for a drink/food Inns in Langenegg
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Langenegg – energy hike For years, the village of Langenegg has been involved in sustainability, and the protection of energy and the climate. The various “energy portal paths” make energy comprehensible, and hands-on. The hike starts at the village hall. Through the red portals, it takes visitors to the sundial, and through the Wind and Water Portal with its energy works. At the Hotel Krone, the trail crosses the country road and, following the portal signs, continues to the Mythical Portal: modelled on a small coliseum, the spot in the forest offers sufficient space for delivering myths and oral traditions. Continue along the forest trail to the
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Barefoot spiral in Langenegg
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nordic walking paths
Bregenzerwald house in Schoppernau
Schoppernau – a day in paradise The circular route takes you past lovely farmhouses in the “Paradies” part of town, which is to the east of Schoppernau. Continue along the Bregenzerache to the Armengemach mountain pasture. The route takes you back to the centre of Schoppenau via a wide road.
starting point Schoppernau-centre of town destination Schoppernau-centre of town itinerary Schoppernau-centre of town (850 m) – Paradies circular route (In the direction of Bergvorsäß as far as the bridge over the Ach) – Armengemach chances to stop off for a drink/food inns in Schoppernau
Difference in altitude: 70 m Trail category: yellow-white Total hiking time: 1½ hours Gentle ramble on mainly flat terrain, paved surfaces.
nordic walking paths
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starting point Sibratsgfäll-car park Krähenberg destination Sibratsgfäll-car park Krähenberg itinerary car park Krähenberg (843 m) – Towards Schönenbach via Iferalpe as far as the crossing over the Subersach – Auenalpe via Hengstig – towards Sibratsgfäll via Nußbaumers Krähenberg – car park Krähenberg chances to stop off for a drink/food inns in Sibratsgfäll, Snack station Bilgeris Krähenberg
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Sibratsgfäll – along the Subersach Sibratsgfäll has six signposted trails of varying degrees of difficulty. This tour takes you through the forests and alps along the Subersach. From the car park, the roadway goes up steeply to Bilgeri’s Krähenberg. An agricultural path goes across the Iferalpe as far as the crossing of the Subersach. The return journey takes you to the Auenalpe, before you cross back over the Subersach (waterfall). Via Nußbaumer’s Krähenberg alp, you take the agricultural path back to where you started.
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Nordic walking in Sibratsgfäll
culture well-being
Arduous stretch with some steep climbs/descents, sometimes across difficult surfaces. For experienced nordic walkers and the very fit.
dining out
Difference in altitude: 355 m Trail category: white-red-white Total hiking time: approx. 3 hours
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hiking with dogs
Out and about with dogs
Man and his best friend can benefit from taking a hike together. Both see, experience and learn new things. Especially when guided by an expert. Trainers Christoph Rüscher and Erwin Kohler have long since “gone to the dogs”, literally! They are also hiking guides, mountain rescuers, agility and companion dog examiners. Together, they offer specific dog training in the heart of the Bregenzerwald mountains, since hiking in the mountains with your own dog can intensify the relationship between man and his dog.
summer hiking day also on offer Date: 22 August 2010 Duration: approx. 4 to 5 hours (takes place in any weather) Price per person: € 45 also on offer Package deals and guided crossing of the Alps information Lexlupo T +43 (0)5515 2311 www.lexlupo.com
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There are only a few regions in the world where you can try out and perfect so many different types of sports. Outdoor specialists accompany you to ensure your safety when you go mountain biking, rafting, paragliding, caving, canyoning and climbing.
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mountain biking & cycling
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Mountain bike tours for beginners 1: Balderschwang tour 2: Schetteregg tour 3: Weissfluh tour 4: Around the Mittagsfluh 5: Mellental tour
Mountain bike tours for the advanced 6: Around the Winterstaude 7: Schetteregg-Schreiberesattel 8: Schönenbach-Schreiberesattel 9: Around the Kanisfluh 10: Damüls tour Mountain bike tour for professionals 11: Diedamskopf-Neuhornbachhaus
Recommended reading: „Bike-Guide“ by W. Sandholzer, www.bike-gui.de (in German only)
Egg – Schoppernau cycle path
Safety advice Mountain bike routes take you through terrain which requires a great deal of responsibility from the biker. Our recommendations for correct conduct in the mountains: • Responsible cycling at controlled speeds and at reduced visibility, especially in bends, since obstacles must be reckoned with at all times! • Hikers and pedestrians have right of way. Considerate overtaking is done at a walking pace. • Agriculture and forestry have right of way on the usable paths. Gates are to be closed after use, and cyclists are to respect temporarily blocked paths. • Do not leave the planned, signposted paths. This helps preserve natural and wild habitats (→ page 11). • Good planning of a tour takes into consideration the degree of difficulty of the route and the cyclist’s ability. This also includes helmet, protective equipment and a technically perfect mountain bike.
hiking active summer family tips barrier free
Mountain bike map You can find all mountain bike routes and important information pertaining to cable cars, huts and mountain inns in the Bregenzerwald mountain bike map. It also includes descriptions of the top routes with altitude profiles, route data and detailed information. The mountain bike map is available from Bregenzerwald Tourismus, the tourist offices and some hotels.
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The Bregenzerwald is still something of an inside tip for mountain bikers: The wide range of easy and highly demanding tours is exceptional. Many of the trails follow the tracks of the locals’ way of life: to mountain pastures and high mountain pastures, the home of the delicious Bregenzerwald alpine cheese. We have selected 11 recommended tours for you. Our tip: book one of our package deals! In the company of expert guides familiar with the region, see the loveliest places the safe way, and pick up valuable tips while you are at it.
mountain biking
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Package deals on offer Make your selection from our package deals for mountain b ikers. See www.bregenzerwald.at/uk for package deals, which you can also book directly from the website.
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mountain biking Mountain bike tours for beginners 1: balderschwang tour Distance: 24 km Difference in altitude: 700 m Highest point: 1,434 m Starting point: Sibratsgfäll
Mountain bike tours for the advanced 6: around the winterstaude Distance: 42 km Difference in altitude: 1,050 m Highest point: 1,080 m Starting point: Egg
2: schetteregg tour Distance: 20 km Difference in altitude: 580 m Highest point: 1,080 m Starting point: Egg
7: schetteregg-schreiberesattel Distance: 37 km Difference in altitude: 1,330 m Highest point: 1,526 m Starting point: Andelsbuch
3: weissfluh tour Distance: 25 km Difference in altitude: 870 m Highest point: 1,367 m Starting point: Schwarzenberg
8: schönenbach-schreiberesattel Distance: 30 km Difference in altitude: 1,200 m Highest point: 1,526 m Starting point: Bezau
4: around the mittagsfluh Distance: 28 km Difference in altitude: 900 m Highest point: 1,440 m Starting point: Bizau
9: around the kanisfluh Distance: 34 km Difference in altitude: 1,200 m Highest point: 1,610 m Starting point: Mellau
5: mellental tour Distance: 18 km Difference in altitude: 700 m Highest point: 1,325 m Starting point: Mellau
10: damüls tour Distance: 31 km Difference in altitude: 1,300 m Highest point: 1,800 m Starting point: Au
Mountain bike events: Diedams Challenge Planned for 8 August 2010 www.rlvb.at Lingenau Outdoor Trophy 14 August 2010 www.outdoortrophy.com 12th Doren 10-hour Bike Event Planned for 4 September 2010 www.svdoren.at
Mountain bike tour for professionals 11: diedamskopf- neuhornbachhaus Distance: 25 km Difference in altitude: 1,370 m Highest point: 2,020 m Starting point: Schoppernau
mountain biking
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Georg Felder T +43 (0)664 5380909 www.egg.at services Guided mountain bike tour “Around the Winterstaude” (medium difficulty, 42 km, approx. 4 to 5 hours, max. 8 people)
Bike & Rucksacktouren Alfons Silgener T +43 (0)664 1335206 www.rucksacktouren.com services 2-day bike tour, spending the night in an original mountain hut, sunrise, half-day and full-day tours.
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Peter Steyrer T +43 (0)650 7811568 www.petersteyrer.at services Cycling technique training, individual tour planning for half and full-day tours (from 3 people), mountain bike rental.
Alpinschule Widderstein & Outdoorpoint Warth Christian Fritz T +43 (0)660 2149207 www.alpinschulewidderstein.com www.outdoorpoint-warth.com services Cycling technique training, obstacle course, individual mountain bike tours
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Outdoor Input for Life Lutz Schmelzinger T +43 (0)676 7837878 www.outdoorinput.com services Half or full-day tours from the gentle “sightseeing” category through to the demanding freeride tour, mountain bike adventure days with individual cycling technique training and realisation, GPS data material and rental of GPS equipment with tracks from the Bregenzerwald.
Werner Geiger T +43 (0)664 1349318 www.au-schoppernau.at services Guided full-day tours, multi-day tours, cycling technique training
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Bike-Parcours Andelsbuch Andelsbuch Tourismus T +43 (0)5512 2565 www.tiscover.at/andelsbuch services On the mountain bike course at Gasthof Ritter, mountain bikers learn how to improve their technique. The course is suitable for both beginners and advanced cyclists. Cycling technique training and guided bike tours with professionals are also available.
Lion Events Michael Breuss T +43 (0)664 4035763 www.lion-events.at services Guided half and full-day tours, freeride and downhill tours, cycling technique training
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Cycling technique training and guided mountain bike tours
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cycling
Mellau‘s Engevorsäß
Most of the villages in the Bregenzerwald are located on expansive valley floors, making them ideal terrain for journeys of discovery by bicycle. New: rental bikes. Tried and tested in several towns – and now also possible in the Bregenzerwald: in Egg, Bezau, Mellau, Bizau, Schnepfau, Au and Schoppernau, there are now rental points where you can easily rent a bike with basket for up to 24 hours. You simply return the bike to any rental point you like.
rental points Egg (Impulszentrum), Bezau (railway station, secondary school), Mellau (village hall), Bizau (church), Schnepfau (school), Au (village hall, Rehmen church), Schoppernau (village hall, Diedamskopf) Price: € 1 per hour € 5 for 24 hours information www.nextbike.at
Rohrmoostal cycle path The scenic cycle tour leaves the church in Sibratsgfäll in the direction of Rindberg. After the Café Alpenrose, you follow an unmade road for about 1 km. You then follow a tarmacked, car-free road, past the impressive Gottesacker faces as far as the nature reserve. The less fit amongst the cyclists can push their bicycles up the 800-metre slope. The next stage of the tour is flat, and takes you to the Aibele alp which is licensed (midJune to mid-September). 2 km later, you pass the watershed between the North Sea and the Black Sea, and one kilometre on you arrive at the Rohrmoos plot. Here, you can visit Germany’s oldest wooden church. The way back takes you along the same route, but with different views. Cycling time is approx. 2 hours. Apart from 1 km of unmade road, all roads are tarmacked. Total distance (one way): 26 km
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Krumbach cycle path From the direction of Langenegg, the cycle path commences from the Wolfbühl plot, and takes you across Salgenreuthe, Au and Halden into the centre of the village. From here, you can continue to Hittisau or Riefensberg. Total distance (one way): 5 km
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Egg – Schoppernau cycle path From Egg, the Bregenzerwald cycle path takes you across the former railway line of the Bregenzerwald railway, as far as Andelsbuch reservoir, and continues through Bersbuch. From here, a cycle path runs parallel to the L 200 as far as the start of the village of ReutheBaien. Quiet side streets take you to Bezau. There, follow the cycle path along the L 200 as far as Mellau. Then you need to cross the L 200. In Mellau, the cycle path takes you through the village, to the Mellau cable cars, as far as Hirschau, where an underpass goes underneath the L 200. In Schnepfau, go over the bridge, arriving once again at the left bank of the Bregenzerache, where the most scenic cycle path section along the Bregenzerache as far as Au commences. The cycle path follows the Bregenzerache from the start of Au as far as Schoppernau. Taking it easy, you need about 4 hours for the return journey. Total distance (one way): approx. 30 km.
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climbing
Aqua rope course, close to Andelsbuch-Bersbuch
Beginner or expert, young or not so young: the Bregenzerwald’s climbing and rope courses offer the perfect training grounds. Au-Schnepfau climbing garden Degree of difficulty: 3 – 8 Lovely sun plateau, charming schrattenkalk ledge with several routes. Schwarzenberg climbing garden Length/height: approx. 30 m Degree of difficulty: 3 – 7 Climbing is free of charge, at your own risk (route topos, equipment rental at Sport Fink T +43 (0)5512 2918) Schrofenwies climbing garden in Warth Length/height: 20 m Degree of difficulty: 4+ – 9, 31 secured routes Starting point: the car park in Lechleiten (a two-minute walk)
Mindelheim via ferrata in Warth Degree of difficulty: medium Walking time: approx. 2½ hours to the start – from Warth-Lechleiten Difference in altitude: approx. 200 m Karhorn Warth via ferrata Length/height: 1000 m Degree of difficulty: medium to difficult (B to D) Walking time: 1½ to 4 hours Difference in altitude: 250 m Starting point/end: ascent with the Steffisalp cable car (walking time to the start, approx. 45 min) – Karhorn peak K1 climbing hall, Dornbirn 2,000 m2 indoor climbing area, 400 m2 boulder area, 600 m2 outdoor climbing area, climbing courses, taster courses, competitions, therapy programmes information www.k1-dornbirn.at
Schröcken adventure park For beginners and experts. Climbing adventure above water, in the forest, on rocks. 30 rope courses, 2 rope slides, training via ferrate and 1 Flying Fox slide (150 m long). information Alpinschule Schröcken Josef Staggl T +43 (0)664 2525200 www.alpinschule-schroecken.at www.abenteuerpark.net
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Flying Fox Warth On the Flying Fox slide (200 m long, 50 m high) which crosses the border between Vorarlberg and Tyrol, you glide down into the valley – wearing of course the correct safety equipment (helmet, harness, sling, pulley). information Alpinschule Widderstein & Outdoorpoint-Warth Christian Fritz T +43 (0)660 2149207 www.alpinschulewidderstein.com
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Damüls forest rope course At a height of between 2 and 10 metres, ropes are stretched out between the trees and various obstacles erected: the idea is to overcome them. The highlight is the Flying Fox slide (approx. 200 m long). The course is suitable for all age groups, from the beginner through to the expert. Programmes can be compiled for small and large groups. information Thomas Schäfer T +43 (0)5510 322 www.das-seil.at
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Rope course The Aqua rope course close to Andelsbuch-Bersbuch is a national park in a picturesque location above the wild and romantic Bregenzer ache, flanked by rock faces. It has various via ferrate and high-rope elements. Five main tours of varying degrees of difficulty, 170 m to 750 m in length, 2 m to 30 m above the ground, 62 sections. Open: June to September Sun, Wed, Fri 12 to 5 p.m., final admission at 3 p.m. no reservations required Car park: Gasthof Ritter AndelsbuchBersbuch Price: from 10 years of age: € 17 From 18 years of age: € 22 Equipment required: trainers Tours for groups (from 8 people): daily from May to October (registration at least 2 days in advance). During the “Canyon Park” tour, participants – dressed in neoprene – can go bathing, swimming and jump into the water from a height of between 2 m and 10 m. information Aktiv Zentrum Bregenzerwald Gerhard Feuerstein T +43 (0)664 5999698 www.aktiv-zentrum.at
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outdoor specialists
Ascent to the Braunarlspitze
The Bregenzerwald outdoor specialists offer both the playful and the adventurous. They offer expert guided tours in the countryside. Aktiv Zentrum Bregenzerwald Gerhard Feuerstein T +43 (0)664 5999698 www.aktiv-zentrum.at services Cave tours, Canyon Park, rope course, Adventure hikes. Alpinschule Schröcken Josef Staggl T +43 (0)664 2525200 www.alpinschule-schroecken.at services • Climbing for children, introduction to via ferrate for the whole family • Adventure days for children, families and groups, wilderness camp for youths • Canyon tours, tours over several days • Guided hikes • Schröcken adventure park
Alpinschule Widderstein & Outdoorpoint-Warth Christian Fritz T +43 (0)660 2149207 www.alpinschulewidderstein.com www.outdoorpoint-warth.com services • Canyoning, rafting in a Canadian canoe • White-water swimming, climbing courses, via ferrata tours • Alpine climbing tours, thematic hikes, adventure week • Flying Fox slide bewegend Christoph Oberhauser T +43 (0)664 7670520 www.bewegend.com services Guided nature rambles, learning by adventure
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Holzschopf.com – Outdoor and more Jürgen Strolz T +43 (0)664 3801540 www.holzschopf.com services Canyoning tours for families, beginners and professionals alike; adventure days for children and youths, group events, weekend deals
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outdoor input for life T +43 (0)5518 20111 T +43 (0)676 7837878 www.outdoorinput.com services Tours of the Bregenzerache by Canadian canoe, fun kayak, canyoning tours, Cave tours, mountain bike tours/courses
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Water sports on the Bregenzerache
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HIGH 5 outdoor GmbH T +43 (0)5513 4140 www.outdoor.at services Bungee – 106 m, rafting, canoeing, canyoning, outdoor course
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Between the start and the finishing line lie 62 km and a difference in altitude of 2,800 m. Supporting programme: “outdoor night” party, family programme, base jumps from the helicopter, etc.
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information www.outdoortrophy.com
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Outdoor-Trophy – 14 August 2010 Olympic champions, world, European and national champions, professionals and amateurs all have one goal: to win the Outdoor Trophy. The Lingenau Outdoor Trophy is an extreme team competition in the disciplines mountain biking, mountain running, para gliding and white-water kayaking.
For your orienatation – fishing grounds: Data subjet to change. Detailed maps and information about fishing groud boundaries are available from issuing offices.
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fishing grounds
fishing grounds
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information Fishing club Mittelbregenzerwald: www.bregenzerach.at Flyfishing Elmenreich: www.elmenreich.com Fishing Association for the State of Vorarlberg: www.fischereiverband-vbg.at
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8: rubach Season: 1 Juni to 15 September Ticket sales: village hall Sibratsgfäll T +43 (0)5513 2112
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7: subersach 2 Season: 1 May to 30 September Fishing club: Mittelbregenzerwald Ticket sales: Flyfisching Elmenreich, Egg, T +43 (0)664 4146482 Special features: exclusively fly-fishing
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3: weissach 2 Season: 1 March to 15 September Fishing club: Bregenz Ticket sales: Tourist offices Alberschwende, Doren, Krumbach, Langenegg, Lingenau, Riefensberg Special features: Ban on live bait, triple hooks
6: subersach 1 Season: 1 May to 30 September Fishing club: Mittelbregenzerwald Ticket sales: Flyfisching Elmenreich, Egg, T +43 (0)664 4146482, village hall Egg, Lingenau, Hittisau and the inn Nussbaumer Sibratsgfäll Special features: fly-fishing: in the Sibratsgfäll section, blinkers with one hook without barb allowed.
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2: rotach Season: 1 June to 30 September Fishing club: Doren T +43 (0)5516 2018 Ticket sales: village hall Doren
5: lecknerbach and lecknersee Season: mid Mai to mid September Managed by: Hotel Das Schiff, Hittisau, T +43 (0)5513 6220 Ticket sales: Hotel Das Schiff Special features: only for hotel guests
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1: bregenzerache from kennelbach to lingenau Season: 1 March to 15 September Fishing club: Bregenz Ticket sales: Tourist offices in Alberschwende, Doren, Krumbach, Langenegg, Lingenau, Riefensberg Special features: ban on live bait, triple hooks
4: bolgenach 2 (with reservoir) Season: 1 April to 30 September Fishing club: Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 620914 Ticket sales: village hall Hittisau Special features: only for guests from Hittisau
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The Bregenzerwald’s rivers, streams and lakes are ideal fishing grounds. Fly-fishermen also discover lovely fishing grounds. The waters in the Bregenzerwald are classified as the trout region. The main fish here is the brown trout, although the odd rainbow trout and grayling can also be found. Day tickets are available for all the listed fishing grounds: prices range between approx. € 15 and € 35. Precise information about fishing limits, minimum fish lengths, fishing ground boundaries, etc. is available from the appropriate issuing offices.
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Fly-fishing in Schönenbach
9: bregenzerache in egg Season: 1 May to 31 August Managed by: fishing club Egg Ticket sales: village hall Egg, T +43 (0)5512 2216 Special features: exclusively fly-fishing 10: bregenzerache from andelsbuch to bezau Season: 1 May to 30 September Fishing club: Mittelbregenzerwald Ticket sales: Flyfisching Elmenreich, Egg, T +43 (0)664 4146482 Special features: exclusively fly-fishing 11: bezegg stausee andelsbuch Season: 1 June to 30 September Managed by: T +43 (0)5512 2565 Ticket sales: tourist office Andelsbuch Special features: ticket sales only with fishing permit, ban on live bait
12: trout pond at the bregenzerache Season: 1 May – 30 September daily from 12 noon, Sundays from 11 a.m. Managed by: Family Felder T +43 (0)664 9551652 At the Felder family in Bersbuch, right next to the Bregenzerache, families can discover a small, idyllic spot with a trout pond, snack bar and bathing facilities. Children and their parents can fish fresh trout straight out of the pond. They are then fried in butter on the spot and served with side dishes! 13: bregenzerache in bezau/reuthe Season: 1 May to 30 September Managed by: fishing club Bezau/ Reuthe Ticket sales: tourist office Bezau Special features: only for guests and locals from Bezau/Reuthe and Mellau
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18: krumbach with bregetzbach and argenbach in damüls Season: 16 Juni to 30 September Managed by: village hall Damüls, Hotel Adler, Damüls, T +43 (0)5510 6210 Ticket sales: village hall Damüls Special features: sold only with guest card/Bregenzerwald Guest Card
21: seebachsee – dorfsee warth Season: mid June to late September Fishing club: village Warth T +43 (0)5583 3515 Ticket sales: tourist office Warth Special features: day ticket, fishing permit
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17: bregenzerache/argenbach in au Season: early May to mid September Fishing club: Au, T +43 (0)5515 2288 Ticket sales: tourist office Au, fish pond Au, Hotel Krone in Au
20: bregenzerache in schröcken Season: May to October Managed by: Fischerei Interessenschaft (fisching club) Ticket sales: tourist office Schröcken, T +43 (0)5519 2670 Special features: day ticket, fishing permit
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16: bregenzerache in schnepfau Season: April to September Fischereiaufseher: Hubert Rüscher T +43 (0)5518 2136 Ticket sales: as agreed with the fishing supervisor
19: bregenzerache in schoppernau Season: 15 June to 15 September Fishing club: Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 2495 Ticket sales: tourist office Schoppernau
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15: bregenzerache in mellau Season: 1 May to 30 September Ticket sales: Bertram Haller T +43 (0)5518 2875 Kartenverkauf: tourist office Mellau
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14: bizauer bach Season: 1 May to 30 September Managed by: fishing club Bezau/ Reuthe Ticket sales: tourist office Bizau, T +43 (0)5514 2129 Special features: only guests in Bizau from 3 nights’accommodation
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paragliding
Pleasant thermal conditions enable great flying experiences
The Bregenzerwald flying area (Niedere close to Bezau-Andelsbuch and Diedamskopf close to Au- Schoppernau) is well-known for its laminar upwind and its pleasant thermal conditions. The special thing about it is that several flight/training areas can be offered within 10 km of each wind direction/direction of the compass at any time. This ideal location enables flexible, fast training. On the Diedamskopf, you can take off from the southerly, south-easterly and easterly directions across steep meadows. From the approx. 10° in the pull-up area, the take-off area continually passes into a steep slope. Two take-off ramps are available for hang-gliders.
services Training, further training, sale, consultancy, checks Tandem passenger flight: € 100 Thermal currents passenger flight: € 125 Sunset passenger flight: € 150 Taster course: from € 90 information Flugschule Bregenzerwald Jodok Moosbrugger T +43 (0)5514 3177 T +43 (0)664 5127765 (tandem flight reservation) www.gleitschirmschule.at
bregenzerwald golf park
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information Golfpark Bregenzerwald and Golfschule Bregenzerwald T +43 (0)5513 8400-0 www.golf-bregenzerwald.com
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Bregenzerwald Golfing School Learn how to play golf with head pro Walter Partel. The motto according to the latest teaching and learning methodology is: “The simple way to learn golf”. Includes important tips on driving, strategy, tactics and mental training.
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The undulating landscape and the numerous little inlets to the Weißach have been perfectly integrated into the game. Artificial lakes and selectively positioned bunkers complement the natural obstacles. Along with the slopes and slants, the corridors and the impressive view, they make golfing in this park into an experience which never fails to leave a lasting impression.
Discount green fee The “Unlimited golfing fun” green fee entitles the holder to a discount of up to 30%, and applies to three 18-hole courses: the Bregenzerwald Golf Park in Riefensberg, the Oberstaufen-Steibis Golf Club and the Oberstaufen Golf Centre. The green fee is available at the founder and partner hotels of the three golf courses. Guests of the golf partner hotels also benefit from discounted green fees at five other golf courses in Vorarlberg.
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The internationally renowned architect Kurt Rossknecht designed the first 18-hole golf course in Vorarlberg in its time between Riefensberg and Sulzberg: not only that – it is one of the loveliest golf courses, nestled as it is in the countryside.
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Bregenzerwald Golf Park in Riefensberg-Sulzberg
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indoor & outdoor tennis courts
Indoor tennis court in Mellau
With its indoor and outdoor tennis courts, Mellau has been THE tennis centre in the Bregenzerwald for years. The Hotel Post in Bezau also houses an indoor tennis court and clay courts. The impressive wooden construction is one of the loveliest indoor tennis courts in Austria.
Tennis-Center Mellau 4 indoor courts with granulated surfaces 3 training channels with automatic ball collection 3 outdoor clay courts Tennis courses information Tennis-Center Mellau Aktivhotel Kanisfluh T +43 (0)5518 2256 www.aktivhotel-kanisfluh.at Tennis im Hotel Post Bezau 2 indoor courts 2 roof-top courts 2 clay courts Free play, individual, group and team training according to the TULOT method, tennis package deals information Hotel Post Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2207-0 www.hotelpostbezau.com
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Climbing, discovering gorges and caves, learning more about herbs, visiting the cows on the farms, riding the “Wälderbähnle” – there is any amount of things for families and kids to do! Heart-felt supervision included.
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rambling with the pram
Herb garden in Holdamoos, close to Au
Au-Schoppernau – in the fragrant herb garden The Holdamoos natural experience illustrates 400 years of alp history. A “Vorsäßhütte” – a mountain pasture hut – dating back 400 years and still in its original condition, a suspension bridge, a small lake, a Kneipp facility and a herb garden boasting over 150 different herbs lie in the middle of the cultivated, natural landscape. This is a gentle ramble on wide paths along the Bregenzerache and through the settled region of Au.
starting point Au-tourist office destination Au-tourist office itinerary Au-Argenau (tourist office, 810 m) – Rehmen – direction to Schoppernau via Halde bis Holdamoos (890 m) – Lebernau – Lugen – Au centre of town chances to stop off for a drink/food inns in Au rest & play Hazelnut spot, small lake, BBQ station, paddling basin, herb garden, old mountain pasture hut
Difference in altitude: 90 m Trail category: yellow-white Total hiking time: 2½ hours Detailed directions are available from the tourist office.
rambling with the pram
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starting point Bizau-centre of town destination Bizau-centre of town itinerary Bizau-centre of town (681 m) – Oberdorf – Brandegg – Wetzsteinhöhle – Moosrundweg – centre of town chances to stop off for a drink/food inns in Bizau rest & play game reserve, Wetzsteinhöhle (cave)
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Bizau – circular ramble including game feeding The ramble takes you to the Brandegg plot, where you can feed bread to the fallow deer. On a three-minute detour, you arrive at the Wetzsteinhöhle (the cave is not accessible with the pram).
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Bizau circular ramble
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Difference in altitude: 20 m Trail category: yellow-white Total hiking time: 1½ hours
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rambling with the pram
Damüls village centre
Damüls – out and about on the Bunny Quiz trail The Bunny Quiz for children along the village’s circular ramble path has been lovingly designed such that it is easy for children to understand. Each of the seven information plaques contains interesting information. The children’s newspaper available from the tourist office includes a quiz that can only be solved with the help of these plaques.
starting point Damüls fire station destination Damüls playground itinerary Circular ramble path – fire station – Damüls playground/forest rope course chances to stop off for a drink/food inns in Damüls rest & play Damüls playground
Difference in altitude: 0 m Trail category: yellow-white Total hiking time: ½ hour
rambling with the pram
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starting point Mellau-centre of town destination Mellau-centre of town itinerary Mellau-centre of town (688 m) – Loop road of the town (Unterrain – Oberfeld, 730 m – Bad) – Mellau-centre of town chances to stop off for a drink/food inns in Mellau rest & play Hüslarbündt playground, swimming pool, bathing in the Mellenbach, pony riding at the pony farm, picnicking in the forest
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Mellau – along the Mellenbach At the foot of the mighty Kanisfluh, this ramble takes you to a multitude of sunny spots where you can play, stop for a rest and indulge in a picnic. The Mellau village circular path first takes you along the Mellenbach. Turn left in front of the new fire brigade building, walk through the Unterrain plot, and then follow the country lane to the Oberfeld plot. After crossing the Dürrenbach, you arrive at the Bad plot, from where you follow the Alpbach down to the Bregenzerache. From here, follow the river downstream until you are back in the centre of Mellau.
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Barbeque next to the Ache
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Difference in altitude: 40 m Trail category: yellow-white Total hiking time: 2 hours
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Kalbelesee, close to Schröcken
Schröcken – from lake to lake The two lakes on the Hochtannberg mountain are your guide on this ramble. The Batzenalpe is a licensed alpine pasture. Here, in the alp museum, you discover what life in earlier times was like. From the Hochtannberg pass, an extended, wide path takes you to the Körbersee, which lies at approximately the same altitude as the Hochtannberg pass. From there, a wide agricultural path takes you downwards across the Batzenalpe to Schröcken.
starting point Schröcken-Hochtannbergpass destination Schröcken-Ortsmitte itinerary Hochtannbergpass (1,675 m) – Kalbelesee – Körbersee (1,670 m) – Batzenalpe – Schröcken-Ortsmitte (1,250 m) chances to stop off for a drink/food Hotel Körbersee, Batzenalpe (during the alp season from mid/late June to mid September), inns in Schröcken rest & play Short trip in a rowing boat on the Körbersee, brooks, Batzenalpe
Difference in altitude: 450 m Trail category: yellow-white Total hiking time: 2 hours Opening times Alpmuseum T +43 (0)5519 2670
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information & registration Au-Schoppernau Tourismus T +43 (0)5515 2288 www.au-schoppernau.at
information Au-Schoppernau Tourismus T +43 (0)5515 2288 www.au-schoppernau.at
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Hut magic and magic herbs The children listen to stories about the very old mountain pasture hut and, in the herb garden, find out which herbs (medicinal plants) can soothe a bee sting, which can make you strong as an ox, and which ones are delicious on bread. Then you cross the fun wobbly bridge to the mysterious hazelnut spot. Place: Au-Schoppernau Meeting point: church in Au- Rehmen Date: 22 July to 26 August every Thursday at 9.30 a.m. Duration: approx. 2 hours Price per child: free of charge with the Bregenzerwald Guest Card
Experience cattle grazing On the Grunholz cattle pasture, children can watch how the farmer milks and feeds his cows. They can try out the fresh, “cow-temperature” milk straight away. Place: Au-Schoppernau Meeting point: tourist office Au Date: 6 July to 24 August every Tuesday at 6.15 p.m. Duration: approx. 1.5 hours Price per child: free of charge with the Bregenzerwald Guest Card
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Variety and playful enjoyment are on offer in the form of the supervised programmes held in several villages. There is a great deal of interesting information out there to learn and discover.
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Watching the farmer at work
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kids’ programme
Adventure day in Schröcken
Abenteuertag A day full of sights and sounds: abseil training, the Flying Fox slide, barbequing, etc. Places: Au-Schoppernau and WarthSchröcken Available: 7 July to 8 September every Wednesday Includes: supervised adventure day (7 hours) for children between 7 and 15 years of age Meeting point: 8.30 a.m. at the tourist office in Au, 8.45 a.m. at the tourist office in Schoppenau, 9 a.m. at the tourist office in Schröcken and Warth Return: approx. 4 p.m. Price per child: € 19, including equipment, barbeque sausages and transfer for guest children from AuSchoppernau and Warth-Schröcken, € 30 for children from other places Equipment required: rucksack, full water bottle, climbing boots, rainwear registration by 12 noon on Tuesday (in the tourist offices) Warth, T +43 (0)5583 35150, Schröcken, T +43 (0)5519 2670, Au, T +43 (0)5515 2288, Schoppernau, T +43 (0)5515 2495 www.au-schoppernau.at and www.warth-schroecken.at
The Bunny Club, Damüls Depending on the weather: forest rope course, Indian camp, creative afternoon or short trips. Supervised kids’ programme – including for the parents. Place: Damüls Meeting point: Damüls tourist office Date: 12 July to 27 August Mon – Fri 1.30 to 5.30 p.m. Price per child: free information Damüls Tourismus T +43 (0)5510 6200 www.damuels.at Kids’ Magic, Sibratsgfäll “Kids’ Magic in Sibratsgfäll” is the place for loads of fun and entertainment for little adventurers up to 10 years of age. Meeting point: 2 p.m. (place depends on the programme) Date: 2 to 13 August, Mon – Fri 2 to 4 p.m. Price per child: € 3 information & registration Sibratsgfäll Tourismus T +43 (0)5513 2121 www.sibra.at
New on Thursday: teen canyoning. Additional charge: € 10 Wed: adventure day for children (from 7 years of age) and youths ** Wed: “Murmele” afternoon for our younger mountain fans (approx. 3 to 6 years of age) in the Hotel Jägeralpe (fair weather only). Participants can expect a varied programme of barbequing sausages, building a dam, fun and games on the playground. Ducks and geese await, and Austria’s smallest horses are the major attraction. Price per child: € 7 (Murmele mountain experience pass) information Warth-Schröcken Tourismus T +43 (0)5519 2670 www.warth-schroecken.com
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Climbing for children Josef teaches children their first climbing moves, several knots and how to abseil down the rock face. Place: Au-Schoppernau Meeting point: 9.15 a.m. at the tourist office in Schoppernau and 9.30 a.m. at the tourist office in Au Date: 5 July to 6 September, every Monday from 9.30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Programme: supervised climbing (3 ½ hours) for children from 6 years of age Price: € 10 for guest children from Au-Schoppernau. € 22 for children from other places. Included in the price are rented climbing equipment, and a knotted rope for the children to take home with them. Equipment required: climbing boots or trainers with treaded sole, full water bottle, snack information & registration Alpinschule Schröcken the day before until 9 p.m. T +43 (0)5519 271 www. au-schoppernau.at
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“Murmele” programme Warth-Schröcken The “Murmele” mountain experience pass is available for guest children from Warth and Schröcken from the tourist offices in Warth and Schröcken. The *programmes are free of charge with the “Murmele” pass. The “Murmele” pass entitles holders to a discount on the **programmes. Mon: climbing for children (from 7 years of age) * Tue: Flying Fox (from 7 years of age) * Thu: mini canyoning (from 7 years of age) *
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Through the Schneckenloch cave This programme is even fun on bad-weather days. Gerhard takes you to explore the largest cave in Vorarlberg, the Schneckenloch natural monument. Rambling inside the mountains, the cave explorers climb and crawl through breath-taking tunnels and halls. An exciting excursion! Minimum age: 10. Place: Bezau-Schönenbach Date: according to registration, minimum number of participants: 5 persons Includes: guided tour, approx. 6 hours, including ramble to the cave, approx. 1¼ hour (difference in altitude: 250 m), approx. 2 hours in the cave. Participants must be fit and sure-footed during the walk there and during the tour of the cave. Price per child: € 33 including caving equipment Price per adults: € 48 including caving equipment, Family tickets are available information & registration Aktiv Zentrum Bregenzerwald T +43 (0)664 5999698 www.aktiv-zentrum.at
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kids’ programme
Kids’ mornings in the Hittisau Women‘s Museum
Didi’s children’s adventure land The mountain station of the Diedamskopf cable car boasts a supervised children’s adventure land with a surface area of 300 m2. Opening times: 10 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. daily from 10 July to 5 September when the cable car is operating, for children between 3 and 8 years of age. There is a parent-child area for children up to 3 years of age. Price per child: € 1.50 per hour, for guest children from Au-Schoppernau free of charge. Lunch € 5 information Bergbahnen Diedamskopf T +43 (0)5515 4110-0 www.diedamskopf.at
“I am who I am.” Pedagogically sound, informative and, above all entertaining: the kids’ afternoons in the Women’s Museum in Hittisau. Taking as a basis the subject of the summer exhibition, which is dedicated to the animator and children’s author Susi Weigel, the team of culture conveyors at the Women’s Museum accompany the children on an exciting journey of discovery into themselves and their own identity. Place: Women’s Museum in Hittisau Date: 8 July to 2 September, every Thursday from 9 to 11 a.m. Programme: 2-hour creative programme with supervision Price per child: € 3,50 information & registration Hittisau Tourismus T +43 (0)5513 6209-50 www.frauenmuseum.at
day trip tips – bregenzerwald
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information & booking Verein Bregenzerwaldbahn T +43 (0)664 4662330 www.waelderbaehnle.at
information T +43 (0)5572 25079 www.hirschberg.at
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Das „Wälderbähnle“ The “Wälderbähnle” is a carefully maintained nostalgic railway which runs between AndelsbuchBersbuch and Bezau. The railway, pulled by historical diesel or steam engines, runs on Wednesdays and bank holidays between 22 May and 10 October, and also on Thursdays between 29 July and 2 September. Please see the website for special trips and journeys to witness the bringing down of the cattle. Departure: 10.45 a.m., 1.45 p.m. and 3.45 p.m. from Bezau. Journey time: return trip: approx. 1 hour
Summer toboggan run in Bizau Take the chair lift up, and the summer toboggan run back down into the valley. The summer toboggan run is 1,850 m long and has 80 bends. Only open on dry days, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. (May to October).
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Popular day trips for the whole family include the lovingly restored “Wälderbähnle” and the nippy summer toboggan run in Bizau.
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The Wälderbähnle on its way from Andelsbuch-Bersbuch to Bezau
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day trip tips – around lake constance From Vorarlberg, it doesn’t take you long to reach the loveliest day trip destinations for the family in the neighbouring area where three countries meet. Vorarlberg inatura – nature show in Dornbirn With Science Centre: touch, crawl in, try out, play and experiment. information T +43 (0)5572 23235-0 www.inatura.at Boat trip on Lake Constance, Bregenz Sightseeing tours and scheduled trips to numerous destinations on Lake Constance. information T +43 (0)5574 42868 www.bodenseeschifffahrt.at Schattenburg in Feldkirch The medieval castle depicts life during the age of chivalry. information T +43 (0)5522 71982 www.schattenburg.at Toy Museum in Wolfurt The loveliest toys from Granny and Grandpa’s time are lovingly presented here. information T +43 (0)650 5000681 www.spielzeugmuseum-wolfurt.at
Around Lake Constance Minimundus in Meckenbeuren (Germany) The small world of great attractions. information T +49 (0)7542 9466-0 www.minimundus-bodensee.de Lake dwelling museum in Unteruhldingen (Germany) The reproduced village on stilts depicts daily life during the Stone Age and the Bronze Age. information T +49 (0)7556 92890-0 www.pfahlbauten.de Ravensburg theme park in Meckenbeuren (Germany) The world’s biggest playroom! information T +49 (0)7542 400-0 www.spieleland.com Legoland in Günzburg (Germany) Built from 50 million Lego bricks. information T +49 (0)180 5700 75701 www.legoland.de Zeppelin Museum in Friedrichshafen (Germany) The history and technology of airships. information T +49 (0)7541 3801-0 www.zeppelin-museum.de Conny-Land amusement park in Lipperswil (Switzerland) Dolphinaria with sea lions and dolphins, petting zoo, pirate ship. information T +41 (0)52 7627272 www.connyland.ch
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There is a host of things to do in the Bregenzerwald for people with special needs: barrier-free rambling paths and a cable car plus the transfer and care 足service offered by Lebenshilfe Vorarlberg.
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barrier-free rambling
Dörnlesee in Lingenau
Between the village square and the swimming pool: wellness in Lingenau Lingenau is located in the gently undulating countryside of the Vorderwald. The hospitable village has won the Vorarlberg Horticultural Competition several times, and has received awards for being a community whose buildings are suitable for the disabled. Lingenau is also well-known for its barrier-free swimming pool with adjacent hotel. It also offers various wellness treatments: from massages through to physiotherapy.
starting & finishing point Lingenau village square (car park) Variant: Vitalhotel Quellengarten (car park) itinerary Lingenau village square (685 m) – Gschwend – St. Annakapelle (669 m) – Vitalhotel Quellen garten – Dörnlesee – village square; signposted as a yellow-white rambling path barrier-free refreshments & wc Hotel Löwen, Gasthaus Traube, Vitalhotel Quellengarten swimming pool Vitalhotel Quellengarten, Lingenau T +43 (0)5513 6461-0 www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at
Distance: 3 km Condition of the path: pavements and roads with little difference in height, all tarmacked
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starting & finishing point Mellau cable cars, car park itinerary Mellau cable cars (705 m) – Engevorsäß (705 m) – Ach bridge towards Hirschau – Schnepfau (734 m, car park) – return via the same way; signposted for the most part as cycle and hiking paths barrier-free refreshments Mellau cable cars, Waldrast kiosk, with tables outside barrier-free wc Schnepfau village hall (on workdays)
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At the foot of the Kanisfluh – from Mellau to Schnepfau The Kanisfluh could easily give rise to the argument whether this, the Bregenzerwald’s most striking mountain, is more impressive on the curved southern side of Au or on the northern face between Mellau and Schnepfau. On our route, the rocks of the northern face tower up to 1,300 meters above the bottom of the valley. If you take a really close look, you can detect a mosaic of completely different natural habitats.
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View of the Kanisfluh, close to Au
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Distance: 10.4 km Condition of the path: tarmacked throughout, more or less level for the most part, with differences in height at stream crossings
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Cable car up the Diedamskopf
Diedamskopf viewing experience The Diedamskopf close to AuSchoppernau is one of the loveliest panoramic mountains in the Bregenzerwald – a trip to the top is always rewarding. Two disabled parking spaces are available right at the valley station. The entrance and exit to the cable car with the wide 8-seater gondola lift is easily accessible by lift. The restaurant in the mountain station and the sun terrace are also accessible by lift, and the WCs provide barrier-free access. information Diedamskopf cable cars, Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 4110-0 www.diedamskopf.at
Professional accompaniment for people with disabilities Lebenshilfe Vorarlberg has a branch in Bezau. The team offers transfer services. It also accompanies and looks after disabled guests of any age. services • Professional care on an hourly basis by trained employees, Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. • Pick-up and drop-off service in a vehicle suitable for wheelchairs Price per hour: € 8.50 including lunch, snack, drinks. Excludes transfers. information & reservations Lebenshilfe Vorarlberg, Werkstätte Bezau T +43 (0)5514 4124 www.lebenshilfe-vorarlberg.at Barrier-free establishments and restaurants in the Bregenzerwald are listed in the Bregenzerwald hotel directory, available from Bregenzerwald Tourismus.
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Traditional, classic, modern. Music, the theatre, exhibitions – for a rural region, the events calendar is anything but provincial! The locations are atmospheric, and pleasantly informal. The surrounding countryside gets in on the act.
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architecture
Contemporary architecture
If a ranking of the most significant architectural regions in the world were to be drawn up today, Vorarlberg would, without a doubt, be in the top ten. However, this doesn’t just mean the significance of the individual constructions, but also their number and density. This phenomenon is comparatively new. Whilst it is true that V orarlberg’s baroque master builders are a fixed feature in specialist literature (Au Guild → page 70), whenever the Vorarlberg school of architecture or architects are mentioned, they mean the generation born since 1950 which has been influencing the architecture here for about the past 30 years. Without counting the handful of pioneers that preceded them, this amounts to over 60 people: considering the 370,000 inhabitants, this is an amazing number. Such a ratio is only possible in a region where architecture is appreciated, where one in four houses is designed by architects.
From construction artists to architects However, this is the result, rather than the explanation, of a develop-ment. “Construction artists” is what the players called themselves at the start since, in the face of a vehement conflict with the “establishment” of the building industry and chamber, the title “architect” was refused. According to one of the pioneers, public appearances, the joining of forces and dialogue were important right from the start. The ideal founded in terms of social policy – social, affordable, sustainable, regional – promoted the solidarity of a generation that was searching for new life forms and other ways of cultural expression, that was resisting the sell-out of their land, and that found expression in building. The new type of architecture started off in residential buildings – by way of examining already existing buildings or as a new structure, often for residential groups – and grew into a clear sign of the cultural restoration which soon extended to the economic elite and the public sector. However, as important as this environment was, there are always people who take responsibility, and Eberle, Gnaiger, Dietrich, Kaufmann
architecture
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Tip: Buildings worth visiting museums Angelika Kauffmann Museum, Schwarzenberg; Juppenwerkstatt, Riefensberg; Women’s Museum, Hittisau; Franz Michel Felder Museum, Schoppernau. inns and hotels Gasthof Adler, Schwarzenberg; Hotel Krone, Hittisau; Hotel Gams, Bezau; Hotel Post, Bezau; Hotel Sonne and Metzgerstüble, Mellau; Hotel Steffisalp, Warth. schools & kindergarten Doren; Egg; Warth. commercial buildings Molke Metzler, Egg; Wood workshop Faißt, Hittisau; Cheese cellar, Lingenau. municipal buildings Village halls in Sulzberg, Langenegg, Andelsbuch, Bizau. churches Alpe Niedere chapel, Andelsbuch
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Worth a visit It is hard to list remarkable buildings, since many of them are private residential buildings which are not accessible. However, a walk through Hittisau or Schwarzenberg for example, can satisfy your curiosity. The village of Bizau is p articularly suitable for such a walk: it boasts residential buildings from all epochs, estates, buildings for industrial, educational and local authority purposes, as well as inns: together, they form an ensemble which was awarded the ArGeAlp prize.
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Landscape and wooden buildings Located somewhat off the beaten track, the Bregenzerwald was part of this development, although in a way of its own. In contrast to the densely populated, industrial and commercial Rhine Valley with its mainly suburban structure, landscape, nature and rural craftsmanship culture is of great importance in the Bregenzerwald. Outside of the Bregenzerwald, groups of houses and farms dominate, whereas inside the Bregenzerwald it is the single-ridge house (farmers’ palace and parlour → page 74); outside of the Bregenzerwald it is households which commission the building, whereas inside the Bregenzerwald it is the young craftsmen. The Bregenzerwälder have a greater affinity for craftsmanship in general (werkraum → page 68): for example, it is in the carpentry trade that the Kaufmann family of architects has its roots. While, following the initial years, the formal experiment is in demand outside, the tendency towards stringency and sobriety increases inside. Rural pragmatism and the discipline of construction with timber, which is now state-ofthe-art, appears to be more effective here. Recently, examining the old buildings is also gaining in importance. Above all, however, the new buildings fit in with the surrounding landscape with regard to material, size and proportion. Is it this attitude that shies at the eccentric and that searches for the typical rather than the unique which guarantees this way of building a wide basis? In any case, good carpentry firms now build
residential buildings which architects in other places wouldn’t be capable of building: it is these houses which graze casually in the field like the cattle which are as typical of the region as the farmhouses and the churches.
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and Ritsch have long since become international stars with chairs at renowned universities.
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bregenzerwald werkraum
werkraum depot in Schwarzenberg
A festival week with an exhibition of artistic innovations, architectural delights, culinary offers, international guests – for the past decade, life in the Bregenzerwald has been richer by a major attraction. Every three years, the werkraum invites people to “Handwerk + Form”(next held in 2012). All this arises voluntarily: a provisional building is provided free of charge, the efforts put in by the countless team members clearly increase, to culminate in the presentation of prizes (the actual reason behind the whole thing) at a major party lasting a week and featuring an exhibition. Each year the event attracts more and more visitors from near and far.
Recommended reading: “Eigen + sinnig, Der werkraum Bregenzerwald als ein Modell für ein neues Handwerk” (Bregenzer wald werkraum as a model for new craftsmanship), written by Florian Aicher and Renate Breuss (in German only)
Game and competition This is how the werkraum displays its mission: as part of a community, by means of teamwork, it accomplishes that which far extends beyond the strengths of its individual members. And it encourages competition, challenges entrants to perform their very best. Objects created in the members’ workshops according to their own design or in conjunction with external designers are judged. The close relationship with the architects (→ page 66) is allowed to develop. Furniture, clothing, components – they must have a practical use, be proof of the highest level of craftsmanship and exemplary design. Since its establishment in 1999, the competition has been the core of the registered society. Almost 100 firms are members, mainly involved in wood processing, such as joiners and carpenters, but there is also a handful of locksmiths, stonemasons, bricklayers, fitters, electricians, painters, upholsterers, textile processors and cobblers through to the exotic such as coppers and wood carvers. Most of the firms have up to
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Yet that is not all: the werkraum has always been involved at a local level, such as in training, in schools, in specific construction projects, in dealing with historical building stock. It is a contribution towards the structural change of the region, and an example of social competence. Despite its international reputation, over 75% of all objects are still sold to clients in Vorarlberg, most of whom even live in the valley. And so these trades make an important contribution towards the prosperity of the valley community.
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Public relations work, advertising, marketing – the werkraum provides all those advantages which industry has over trade. Yet without a huge budget: instead, it has capital typical to craftsmen – brains and ability, a network, links. And so an interested public in Vienna, Munich and Paris have seen exhibitions put on by the werkraum, for example. The werkraum is also a regular subject in the specialist press, and has been described as the “landscape of knowledge”.
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werkraum depot The werkraum depot is the communal Exhibition and information platform for furniture and objects from the Bregenzerwald. On an area covering 300 m², the werkraum members exhibit Bregenzerwald furniture and objects with a practical, daily use: tables, chairs, shoes, swings, sofas, chests, clogs and much more. opening times Thu 5 – 7.30 p.m. During the Schubertiade (June, August, September): daily from 5 to 7.30 p.m. and following prior appointment by telephone. Guided tours for groups upon appointment. information & booking of guided tours Werkraum office T +43 (0)5512 26386 www.werkraum.at
tion of construction elements in the field of hotel construction, for example, is making progress. The latest manufacturing technologies such as CAM and CNC have been introduced, the finish of coatings is expanded, for example: craftsmanship meets omnipresent engineering. Hence, it comes as no surprise that you can find kitchens from Hittisau in Athens, that the furnishings of a hall of residence in Massachusetts come from Schwarzenberg or that, in 2008, a living unit from Reuthe was visible on the roof of the MoMa in New York.
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Qualities of craftsmanship Work on the spot, reaction to special cases, direct commissioning, closeness to customers and flexibility are quality standards of this craftsmanship, specialised skills and a creative instinct are needed, acquired in a highly developed culture of craftsmanship (Au Guild → page 70) and naturally handed down to the next generation. This store of knowledge and skills is maintained and continually extended: raw materials – such as the silver fir – are cultivated to their most exquisite form, small batches in the field of furniture c onstruction open up new markets, the pre-produc-
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around five employees, some of them are one-man workshops, and only a few have double-digit employees.
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Church in Au
Imagine: in a hardly developed mountain valley, tucked away in the very last corner, in a village, a group of people gets together and leaves its mark on the construction activities within a radius of several hundred kilometres for 150 years. And that in the form of large structures for churches and monasteries, without any precursors, without any academies, with buildings made from stone although wood was the only building material used in the valley. And then – as if appearing from nowhere, to vanish into thin air. Hard to believe, yet …
Recommended reading: “Architectura Practica – Barockbaumeister und moderne Bau schule aus Vorarlberg”, edited by Tobias G. Natter and Ute Pfanner, Vorarlberg State Museum (in German only)
Initiative and self-help Around 1650, Michael Beer – then in his mid-forties – founded the Au Guild, named after the village of Au in the back of the Bregenzerwald. This was preceded by his apprenticeship and years of travel, with stops in the Rhine Valley, Lower Austria ... not much else is known. Following the devastation caused by the Thirty Years’ War, which was coming to an end, and guided by the Counter- Reformation, construction thrived in South Germany. Michael Beer and his contemporaries started to build for these clients. Although the start of the collegiate church in Kempten was fraught with friction, 20 years later Thumb, Moosbrugger, Beer (to name only the most important of over 50 personalities) were sitting firmly in the saddle. Over the next 150 years, h undreds of churches were built, including highlights such as the churches in Ellwangen (from 1682), Obermarchtal (from 1686), Einsiedeln (from 1674), Disentis (from 1696), Irsee (from 1699), Weingarten (from 1715), St. Peter, Schwarzwald (from 1724), St. Gallen (from 1755), Birnau (from 1747).
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In all their planning, building and training, the master builders concentrated on bricklayers and stucco plasterers. In the spring, groups of builders comprising up to 200 men arrived at the building sites: from autumn, construction was stopped and the builders returned to the valley, an experience richer. The winter was spent learning, using the available literature (Serlio, Pozzo, Vignola). The development of the Guild was undoubtedly enriched by the formation of a concept that was essentially simple, repeatable, economic yet adaptable and variable, without turning into a rigid pattern. Clients appreciated this fact. Yet, it cannot be said that the Au workmen were simple service providers, as displayed by the conflict surrounding Weingarten: Franz Beer threw the order at the feet of the abbots.
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Continuity and change More recent studies confirm that the builders contributed significant prosperity to the Hinterwald, as well as bringing fame and honour to their leaders: Franz Beer was awarded a title of nobility, and Peter Thumb was appointed councillor in Constance. This all had a widespread impact, as proven by the almost 2,000 released serfs by the end of the 18th century. This asset wasn’t lost when the clerical building activities stopped at the start of the new century. The radical change in agriculture meant new building tasks, such as new farms, which were praised by contemporary travellers as “farmers’ palaces” (→ page 74). History starts to repeat itself: the change-over from wood to stone is now successfully reversed. The acquired skills are continued in a new guise, with new material, with new tasks. A century later, another upturn in the field of craftsmanship can be seen: this time, it is the werkraum (→ page 68) which, with its furniture design, carries the Bregenzerwald name out into the world.
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Building activities subsided in the second third of the 18th century, to cease entirely with secularisation.
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The baroque Einsiedeln monastery in Switzerland
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journeys to architecture and the culture of wood
In Andelsbuch power station
There are various ways and means for discovering the peculiarities of the Bregenzerwald’s architectural and wooden culture – either under your own steam, or on a guided tour. Art Nouveau power station During the era of the AustroHungarian monarchy, Andelsbuch power station, opened in 1908, was one of the biggest, most modern power stations of its time. Although Andelsbuch power station has been continuously renewed, renovated and extended over the decades, it still maintains its unique character. Place: Andelsbuch Meeting point: 10 a.m. at the power station Date: every Thursday (except bank holidays) between May and September Programme: guided tour Price: free Registration: not necessary information www.andelsbuch.at
Architecture in Sulzberg Sulzberg and the part of the village known as Thal to the north of the Bregenzerwald are home to several architectural gems: from the Empire-style church, designed by Alois Negrelli, planner of the Suez Canal, through to the “1740 Ichs” (1740 Mes) installation of hair locks which adorns the new village hall. Two new circular paths now lead you to 21 selected buildings and works of art, planned in the most part by renowned architects. As an accompaniment, the “Journeys to Architecture” brochure tells interesting stories: from the time the works originated, what was important to the owners and the architects, how sensitive historical works are preserved and how modern works can come into being. Guided tours with Mayor Helmut Blank are held on certain dates in the summer. information www.sulzberg.at
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Recommended reading: “Baukunst in Vorarlberg seit 1980” (Architecture in Vorarlberg since 1980), a guide to 260 buildings worth visiting, written by Otto Kapfinger (in German only)
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brochures, guided tours & information Hittisau Tourismus T +43 (0)5513 6209-50 www.hittisau.at
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The following can be visited: • Three wooden bridges, including the oldest bridge in Vorarlberg • Three sawmills, from the listed ensemble through to the exportorientated large concern • Workshops, including the only commercially operating master cooper for miles around • Arts centre and fire station – wooden architecture • A biomass power station which provides over 50 local properties with heat
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Wood culture in Hittisau As a raw and building material wood has always played – and still plays – an essential role in the design of living spaces and daily functions in the Bregenzerwald. While wood had lost its significance during the course of industrialisation, today it is enjoying a renaissance. This is particularly true of the Bregenzerwald and Hittisau. Visitors can find out more about wood and the part it plays in the way of life in the Bregenzerwald during rambles and guided tours.
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Carpenters at work
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everyday culture
The cheese-makers cast a critical eye
Anyone who allows himself the pleasure of watching cheese being made here – such as in Schoppernau alpine dairy – can understand how close the ties are between rural activities and everyday culture. Alpine dairy The introduction of hard cheese making in the middle of the 18th century not only opened up new sources of income, it also changed the farmers. Initial failures are evidence of how much sweat and tears went into complying with the hygiene standards, into working out the complex production stages and the precise time standards. The alpine dairyman (hard cheese and lace → page 7) became a highly-reputable skilled worker with extensive expertise whose circumstances demanded him to be what we these days call somewhat interdisciplinary. For Franz Michael Felder, the poet from Schoppernau, he is “a jack-of-all-trades: shoe mender, vet, launderer, carpenter, tailor, philosopher and much more”. A century earlier, the valley com-
munity had already proven that its people knew how to help themselves in the face of adversity: in the form of the Au Guild (→ page 70), a new branch of industry was created from nothing: architecture and the building trade. What: from nothing? Even though the background to this movement is unknown, one thing is for sure: it was born from necessity, and the resulting talent shown by the farmers of helping themselves. And the architects’ contribution? Artistic talent (→ page 66) practiced for centuries. Farmers’ palace and parlour However, none of the large buildings actually stand in the Bregenzerwald itself: they are constructed “outside”: “inside” keeps house, tries to increase affluence and displays it with a reserved pride. When, in the early 19th century, agriculture started to prosper – especially in the Vorder- and Mittelwald – new farmhouses were built which were soon known as farmers’ palaces and which, according to the relevant literature, were amongst the most
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magnificent in the whole of the alpine region. The log cabin was shingled, windows and doors were finely decorated in line with the Biedermeier period: more than anything else, however, people treated themselves to a panelled parlour, nice and bright thanks to large windows, cosy thanks to the tiled stove and special pieces of furniture. The sofa was one such piece: around the middle of the century, manufacture of this piece exploded, only to dwindle in a few decades: usually manufactured in the evening at home by “laymen”, today they are popular collector’s items (werkraum → page 68). The stoves, too, were special: the artistic tiles came mainly from local potters whose trade flourished during this century.
As a rule, these skills are practiced at home, with the individual members committed to the family. One is surrounded by one’s own craftsmanship. This is also true of the clothing. The local costume stands out amongst all those from the alpine region: ornate, strict, proud – the “Juppe” is the first thing you notice. A four metre-long black piece of cloth is folded into numerous pleats, smoothed in several stages – this is the skirt. It is decorated only with one bright blue band. Then there are the half a dozen different pieces of headgear. The artistically embroidered blouse, which is a good indicator of social standing, is not the end of the magic. Inspired by fashion worn by 18th century courtiers in Spain, the costume still demands poise of the wearer today.
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Decoration and Taste And then there were the covers and textiles: textile processing – first of all weaving, followed from around 1760 by embroidery and lace-making for manufacturers from St. Gallen – soon proved so lucrative that farming was sometimes neglected: a repeated upturn was experienced from 1865 following the introduction of the “Parisian machine”. This can still be felt today: there is something missing in a Bregenzerwald parlour without the white, finely crocheted net curtains.
The magic becomes even more physical when it comes to cooking and eating (→ from page 87). Whatever is produced by the soil and the garden is cultivated: the cheese from the largest silage-free dairy region, for example, is unique. And you can taste the meaning of refinement when you compare local cheese “knöpfle” with cheese “spätzle” from other regions. It is hardly surprising then that the Bregenzerwald has, by far, the most “chef’s hats” (culinary distinction) of all regions far and wide. Or that here, where one in three is employed as a craftsman, this refined everyday culture is a fixed source of income.
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schubertiade schwarzenberg
Musicians on their way to the Schubertiade concert
The Schubertiade Schwarzenberg is considered the most important Schubert festival in the world. The music of Schubert and his contemporaries harmonises with the rural atmosphere in this choice, lovely village – for an atmospheric effect. 18 – 27 June and 27 August – 12 September 2010 The programme boasts around 70 events: chamber concerts, song recital evenings, piano concerts, orchestra concerts, readings and master class courses. Every year, exceptional artists and ensembles make a guest appearance in the Angelika Kauffmann Hall, which affords a view of the meadows and mountains. Special Schubertiade buses depart from many places to take visitors to the concerts in Schwarzenberg.
information & ticket sale Schubertiade GmbH T +43 (0)5576 72091 www.schubertiade.at Bregenzerwald Tourismus has compiled attractive deals for visitors to the Schubertiade (hotel + 3 tickets per person). information & arrangements & room reservations Bregenzerwald Tourismus GmbH Impulszentrum 1135, 6863 Egg T +43 (0)5512 2365 F +43 (0)5512 3010 www.bregenzerwald.at/uk
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Details are available from the programme you can order from Bregenzerwald Tourismus. Bregenzerwald Tourismus has compiled attractive package deals for prospective visitors.
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information & arrangements & room reservations Bregenzerwald Tourismus GmbH Impulszentrum 1135, 6863 Egg T +43 (0)5512 2365 F +43 (0)5512 3010 www.bregenzerwald.at/uk
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22 July – 22 August 2010 On the world’s largest lake stage, the 2010 Bregenz Festival will be staging the desert opera “Aida”, a masterpiece by the Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi. The unhappy love story between the Ethiopian Princess Aida – brought to the Nile as a slave – and the Egyptian General Radames went down a storm at its premiere in Cairo in 1871, and has since advanced to become one of the most popular, most performed works of operatic literature. As has been tradition for over 60 years, the Viennese Symphony Orchestra will be the festival orchestra.
information & ticket sale Bregenzer Festspiele T +43 (0)5574 407-6 www.bregenzerfestspiele.com
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Visit the Bregenz Festival, and stay in the Bregenzerwald: this is easily combined, since it is a mere half to one-hour drive from the Bregenzer wald to Bregenz.
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Performance on the lake
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vorarlberg symphony orchestra
Vorarlberg Symphony Orchestra in front of Bregenz Festival House
The Vorarlberg Symphony Orchestra was established in 1984. The orchestra has been a guest in the Bregenzerwald with its own subscription cycle every year since 2002. The permanent members of the Vorarlberg Symphony Orchestra comprise professional musicians from Austria, Germany and Switzerland, yet also includes guests from other renowned orchestras. Gérard Korsten has been the principal conductor since 2005. Every season, the orchestra works out up to 12 programmes which are performed at numerous concerts in various towns and villages in Vorarlberg and at the Bregenz Festival. The musicians’ outstanding commitment is always emphasised by the audience and the press alike: the musicians are not there simply to do a job – they regularly come together to rehearse and perform, with their own blend of enthusiasm for intensive orchestra work.
Friday, 7 May, 2010, 8 p.m. Angelika-Kauffmann Hall, Schwarzenberg Friday, 13 August 2010, 8 p.m. Angelika-Kauffmann Hall, Schwarzenberg Sunday, 12 September 2010, 8 p.m. Ritter-von-Bergmann Hall, Hittisau information & ticket sale Edith Mathis T +43 (0)5576 78670 www.symphonieorchester-vorarlberg.at
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information Kulturverein Bahnhof T +43 (0)5512 4947 www.bahnhof.cc
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Bahnhof cultural society, Andelsbuch Andelsbuch railway station was built over a century ago. It is one of the last remaining historical railway buildings of the former Bregenzerwald railway. The Bahnhof Andelsbuch cultural society has been based here since 1999. The façade was restored in line with the original in 2003. In 2006, the Bahnhof Cultural Society was awarded the Austrian State Prize for cultural innovations in the rural region. With “arrivals, stays and meetings” as their motto, around 40 events are held every year.
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Cultural initiatives in several towns and villages liven up the events calendar with small yet exquisite programmes. The various folk music festivals are major meeting places.
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Andelsbuch railway station, events location
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cabaret & village culture
Yaron Herman Trio making a guest appearance at Bezau Beatz
Bezau Beatz – music from all genres 20 July – 31 August 2010 Every Tuesday from 8.30 p.m. Bezau Beatz is a series of open-air concerts ranging from jazz through pop. Bezau village square is the setting for the concerts. The concerts are held whatever the weather. Food and drink are available on the village square.
a selection from the programme Wally Warning Afro funk, reggae Peter Madsen’s CIA The 14-piece orchestra plays classical, jazz and modern music. Yaron Herman Trio The piano superstar from France: 30,000 albums sold, European Jazz Prize 2009 Kofi Quarshie’s Agoo Group Traditional music and dance from Ghana information www.bezau.at/bezaubeatz
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The longest line of tractors in the world in Doren: 3 July 2010 On the occasion of the 175th anniversary of Doren Rifle Club, the Bregenzerwald Tractor Veterans’ Association is aiming to break a world record: next to each other, over 944 tractors need to be lined up. information www.traktorenschlange.at or www.schuetzenfest.at
Alpenair Sibratsgfäll: 26 – 28 August 2010 programme Thursday, 26 August Open-air concert with the den Kastelruther Spatzen, on the occasion of their “Ein Kreuz und eine Rose 2010” tour Friday, 27 August From 8 p.m. the “Wilden Engel” from the Black Forest ensure a laid-back party atmosphere. Saturday, 28 August 8th Cross Country Relay Teams of three – comprising racing cyclists, mountain bikers and runners – compete for the honour. From 8 p.m. Irish Night with the “All Right Guys” information & ticket sale www.alpenair.eu
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45th Bregenzerwald Regional Music Festival in Buch: 9 – 11 July 2010 It is under the motto “A Fescht, wias im Buach stoht” (The very model of a festival) that, this year, the District Music Festival is being held in the small village of Buch. On the agenda: the coming-together of music groups with an Inntal line-up from Vorarlberg and Tyrol, an evening with the Goldried Quintet, a meeting of young musicians from the Hofsteiger Association and youth guest bands, Sepp Mattelschweiger’s Quintet Juchee, an early-morning drink with the Riedberg Quintet. Worth a visit: the procession on Sunday. information www.mvbuch.com
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Traditional brass band
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exhibitions & museums
Thomas Burke after Angelika Kauffmann: self-portrait as a drawing, inspired by the Muse of poetry, 1787
Insights into the history, lifestyle and creative activity are provided by lively museums and exhibitions.
Tip: 1 April – 23 May 2010 Exhibition on the painter and restorer Hubert Dietrich (born in Mellau in 1930, died in Vienna in 2006). On display are paintings, drawings and watercolours. opening times Wed to Sat 2 to 5 p.m., Sun 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Angelika-Kauffmann Museum Schwarzenberg 12 June – 26 October 2010 “Preferred relations” The exhibition is dedicated to the life and works of Angelika Kauffmann, with a look at her friendships and relations. Special attention is paid to the various circles of friends she had during her stays in London and Rome and in her chosen home village of Schwarzenberg. Her famous friends included Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. On display are letters, quotations from letters, and pictures of her friends. Audio points bring the correspondence to life. A trip into Facebook updates Angelika Kauffmann’s network of relationships. opening times Tue to Sun 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guided tours for the public: Tuesdays, 4 p.m., Sundays and bank holidays, 10.30 a.m. information Schwarzenberg Tourismus T +43 (0)5512 3570 www.schwarzenberg.at www.angelika-kauffmann.com
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9bäume – Langenegg Sculpture Path When you can no longer see the woods for the trees… Initiated by Bregenzerwald sculptor Hanno Metzler and potter Petra Raid, 9 artists each dedicated a week to “their” tree trunk and the subject of wood in 2007 and 2009. The artists from Austria, Italy, Germany and Switzerland each received a tree of their choice: either still standing in the forest, on its side as a trunk, or in the form of wood shavings. “9bäume” is a project which focuses on the individual and which enabled the participants to develop freely, without any restrictions or rules. The result? 18 sculptures lined up along the old Wälderbahn railway track like beads on a string. To accompany the exhibition, a catalogue has been published which is available in the tourist office Langenegg. starting point & car park Disused railway station in Langenegg information www.9baeume.at
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The Women’s Museum in Hittisau 16 May – 26 October 2010 “I am who I am. Animator and graphic artist Susi Weigel” The Women’s Museum is dedicating its exhibition to the animator, graphic artist and multi award-winning children’s book illustrator Susi Weigel (1914 – 1990). Together with Mira Lobe, she created classic children’s books such as “Das kleine Ich bin Ich”, “Die Omama im Apfelbaum” and “Das Städtchen Drumherum”. Susi Weigel lived in Bludenz from 1952 until her death. The Women’s Museum in Hittisau is a lovely example of modern wooden architecture by the cukrowicz.nachbaur duo of a rchitects. It is the only museum dedicated to women in Austria, and its aim is to make creative arts by women visible. opening times Thur 3 to 8 p.m., Fri 3 to 5 p.m., Sat and Sun 10 a.m. to 12 noon and 2 to 5 p.m. and other times following prior appointment by telephone: T +43 (0)664 88431964 information T +43 (0)5513 6209-30 www.frauenmuseum.at
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Sculpture of the “9bäume” art project in Langenegg
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exhibitions & museums
Juppenwerkstatt in Riefensberg
Juppenwerkstatt Visitors to the Juppenwerkstatt Riefensberg can find out how the highly complicated national costume worn by the ladies of the Bregenzerwald is made by coming along to the Juppenwerkstatt. A very special technique is used to make up to 500 pleats in the black dress, for example. The building – former outbuildings of the Krone inn, adorned with a new glass façade, and extending over three storeys – is also worth visiting for its architectural value. opening times May to October Tue 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Fri 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m. and upon request, guided tours following prior appointment information Riefensberg Tourismus T +43 (0)5513 8356-15 www.juppenwerkstatt.at
Bezau local history museum A typical residential building, maintained in its original style. It holds national costumes, offers insight into the style of home furnishing in days gone by, and displays a valuable collection of sacral art. opening times with guided tours October to June: Tue 2 p.m., July to September: Tue, Thur and Sat 3.30 p.m., Wed 10 a.m. For further guided tours (including of groups), please register at: T +43 (0)5514 3239 information Bezau Tourismus T +43 (0)5514 2295 Alberschwende local history museum Bregenzerwald style of home furnishings: “From flax to linen” opening times upon request information Alberschwende Tourismus T +43 (0)5579 4233
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Galerie 365 in Schnepfau The Galerie 365 in Schnepfau is a new arts space suspended on steel ropes. As the name suggests, the idea behind it is that the gallery is freely accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Works by international artists are on display.
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Franz Michael Felder Museum in Schoppernau Franz Michael Felder was a farmer, writer and social reformer and is one of the most historically significant personalities from the Bregenzerwald. The exhibition is an exploration of his life and works. opening times Mo 4 to 6 p.m., Thur 9 to 11 a.m., Fri 5 to 7 p.m., Sun 9.30 to 11.30 a.m. groups: reservation required information Schoppernau Tourismus T +43 (0)5515 2495
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Images of 19th century life in Hittisau The life and works of five exceptional personalities all born around 1800 in Hittisau are exhibited. Permanent exhibition in Hittisau village hall. opening times Mon – Fri 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. information Hittisau Tourismus T +43 (0)5513 6209-50
“uf m Tannberg” alpine museum in Schröcken Alpine life in days gone by. “Bergheu” photo exhibition. opening times mid June to mid October every Thur and Sun from 1 to 4 p.m. information Schröcken Tourismus T +43 (0)5519 2670 www.alpmuseum.at
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Egg local history museum Oldest museum in the valley area (founded in 1904). National costumes, landscape, customs and style of home furnishings. opening times June to October Wed and Sat 3 to 5 p.m. information T +43 (0)5512 2216-0
Hittisau alpine dairy farm museum Historical alpine dairy kitchen opening times Wed 10 a.m. with guided tour (reservation required) and following prior request information Hittisau Tourismus T +43 (0)5513 6209-50
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Angelika-Kauffmann Museum in Schwarzenberg 19th century style of furnishing in the Bregenzerwald, Angelika Kauffmann exhibition in the new wing ( → page. 82). opening times Tue to Sun: 10 to 5 p.m. public guided tours: Tue 4 p.m., on Sun and holidays 10.30 a.m. information Schwarzenberg Tourismus T +43 (0)5512 3570 www.schwarzenberg.at
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Mesmer’s barn in Alberschwende Agricultural museum opening times upon request information Alberschwende Tourismus T +43 (0)5579 4233
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cultural outings
Festival House in Bregenz
Thankfully, the distances between the major day trip destinations in Vorarlberg and around Lake Constance are short. in vorarlberg • Bregenz: The capital of Vorarlberg enjoys a lovely location on Lake Constance. Worth a visit are: Kunst haus Bregenz (exhibition location for contemporary art in a glass cube which has received several awards), the Festival House with its lakeside stage, the old town. • Dornbirn: with 45,000 inhabitants, Dornbirn is the biggest town in Vorarlberg. Worth a visit are the interactive Naturschau inatura with Science Centre and the Rolls Royce Museum. • Rankweil: basilica worth a visit • Feldkirch: the medieval town with pergolas, paved roads and the defiant Schattenburg, the former seat of the Counts of Montfort. • Montafon: Silvretta high-mountain road • Großes Walsertal biosphere park: parish in St. Gerold
in germany • Lindau: picturesque island town • Friedrichshafen: Zeppelin Museum • Meersburg: medieval wine town • Mainau flower island • Birnau monastery: the work of a baroque master builder from the Bregenzerwald • Constance: historical council town • Reichenau island: Romanesque churches (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage) in switzerland • St. Gallen: monastery and library. The baroque collegiate church is a work by a baroque master builder from the Bregenzerwald (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage) • Einsiedeln monastery: the work of a baroque master builder from the Bregenzerwald in the principality of liechtenstein • Vaduz: capital of the principality, art museum
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The Bregenzerwald locals are masters in the art of cheese and cheese culture. The Bregenzerwald K채seStrasse with its selection of enjoyable stations is dedicated to the subject of cheese. The chefs in the multi award-winning restaurants and inns also skilfully master the art of cooking.
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bregenzerwald culinary delights region
Alpine dairy in Schnepfau
How come a valley community in which, a century ago, Sunday dinner comprised a sort of wheat flour mash (with maize grits the rest of the week) is now a gourmet region with specialities whose origins are protected and where refined gastronomy is at home in many restaurants?
The Bregenzerwald is an Austrian gourmet region. These days, the word “gourmet” is used all too frequently in advertising: however, the expression “gourmet region” has a specific meaning: it is a registered brand by the Austrian Ministry for Food and the AMA (Agrarmarkt Austria), wishing to remind consumers of regional specialities. The basic prerequisites are that the ingredients come from the region, that production is regional, and that the products are firmly rooted in regional gastronomy. In the Bregenzerwald, this means alpine cheese. Every year, approximately 3,000 tons of alpine cheese are produced in the valley’s 17 dairies. Every year, 200 tons of alpine cheese are handmade by the 90 or more dairy alps every summer. The special thing about this cheese is the silofree milk it is produced from, since only 2% of EU dairy farmers produce in this way, i.e. their cows never eat silo fodder – instead, between May and October, they only eat grass and herbs. During the winter, they only eat the air-dried hay from valley
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The passage of this modest alp fare to the current first-class restaurants in the Bregenzerwald – which now use over 50 regional types of cheese – went through a series of changes which demanded quality rather than quantity. These include the 1997 EU Protection of Origin of alpine and mountain cheeses, the establishment of the “KäseStrasse Bregenzerwald” in 1998 as a network of farmers, alpine dairies, craftsmen, publicans and businesses, the “Gourmet region of the Bregenzerwald” in 2005, the Vorarlberg quality marketing “luag druf” in 2005, the inclusion of Bregenzerwald mountain cheese into the “Ark of taste” by Slow Food 2008, and the “Bregenzerwald Gourmet Days” by the KäseStrasse in July 2009. The toughest taste test is still the most regional however: every year, alpine and mountain cheese is judged in Schwarzenberg. The winner at this event is enough to satisfy any gourmet’s taste buds.
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The three-stage farming method in particular gives the alpine cheese the special flavour which means it can easily contend with the well-known European full-fat cheeses. It has been like this for a long time: back at the start of the 19th century, the inhabitants of the Bregenzerwald sold over 30.000 kg of cheese to the monarchy and abroad. In 1877, Karl von S eyffertitz wrote: “Everywhere – including in the cheerful Vorderwald, in Hittisau and Lingenau, you will meet a unique people in strange national dress in wood-panelled parlours with floors scrubbed white, with shiny door handles – the men busy looking after a dairy breed of cow and overseeing the production of a popular, world-famous fine cheese, the women busy with elaborate whitework embroidery.” However, it wasn’t the producers back then who made all the money – it was the sellers. The Schnepfau local Josef Ambros Moosbrugger, for example, made so much profit from selling cheese that he could afford a city palace in Milan. No doubt he dined differently to the people back home, where cooking over an open fire resulted above all in simple pan-fried dishes such as the “Riebel” and the “Schwozermuas”. Up on the alp, flour,
salt, butter, quark and cheese were the main ingredients. The recipe for “Schwozermus” – named for the woodcutters from Schwaz – was: “Water, flour, salt, dripping – and that’s it!” The lack of bread on the alp gave rise to the “Käsknöpfle”, to “Sig”, known only in the Bregenzerwald and which is caramelised lactose, since they wanted to make a further product from the whey.
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meadows. In the so-called three-stage farming method, following their winter in the barn, the animals graze on the mountain pastures located at medium height (around 900 m) during the spring and the autumn, and on the high mountain pasture during the summer. The mountain pastures are run as a collective, since the farmers only have an average of 12 cows in the barn.
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käsestrasse
Alpine dairyman on the alp
The KäseStrasse isn’t a street or a road in the usual sense: it is a union of experts from various disciplines. Throughout the whole year, the members – including alpine dairies, cheesemakers, farms selling their produce directly from the farm – organise events, invite people to tasting sessions, and initiate the uninitiated into the secrets of cheese production. In addition to restaurants and alpine dairies, stations along the KäseStrasse include: the modern cheese cellar in Lingenau, where several thousand blocks of cheese are left to mature, the cheese house in Andelsbuch, open seven days a week selling the entire range of cheeses and delicacies from the Bregenzerwald, the alpine dairy school in Egg, where you can make your own cream cheese in a blitz course. A separate brochure, available from Bregenzerwald Tourismus, provides information about the stations along the KäseStrasse world of adventure and the events calendar. KäseHerbst – Cheese Autumn The Bregenzerwald celebrates the KäseHerbst – Cheese Autumn – from
mid-September through to the end of October. It starts with the bringing down of the cattle and cheese market in Schwarzenberg in the middle of September. Cheese Autumn weeks are on the calendar of events, featuring delicacies made from alpine and mountain pasture cheeses offered by the restaurants in the KäseStrasse, wine and cheese tasting at various locations, cheese rambles, demonstrations in exhibition dairies, music and culture in cooperation with the museums in the Bregenzerwald. information T +43 (0)5512 2365 www.kaesestrasse.at
Tip: Ingo Metzler Alpine Dairy School Duration: approx. 4 hours No. of participants: min. 5, max. 20 Dates: by appointment/upon request information Metzler Käse-Molke, Egg T +43 (0)5512 3044 www.molkeprodukte.com
berggut – good things from the bregenzerwald
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Panoramarestaurant Diedamskopf, Au-Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 4110 0 www.diedamskopf.at opening times 11 June to 10 October
dining out
Elsenalpstube mountain inn, Damüls T +43 (0)5510 297 www.elsenalpstube.at opening times During the opening times of Damüls cable cars
culture well-being
Hochalpe hiking hut, Warth T + 43 (0)5583 4250 www.jaegeralpe.at opening times During the opening times of the Steffisalpbahn
Bergrestaurant Simma, Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2761 www.restaurant-simma.at opening times 13 May to 6 June: open on weekends 11 June to 17 October: open every day
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The BERGGUT Initiative BERGGUT – good things from the Bregenzerwald is the motto of the new initiative. A special menu informs diners which ingredients come directly from regional farms and manufactories – or even from the restaurant’s own garden! This includes milk, butter and alpine cheese of varying degrees of maturity and from various alps. Cream cheese from goats, alpine pork and, from small farms, bread and eggs. Fruit, berries, salad produce and herbs.
Almhotel Hochhäderich, Hittisau-Riefensberg T +43 (0)5513 82540 www.alpenarena.com opening times 12 June to 1 November
family tips
Really good bread with country-style butter and alpine cheese, a fluffy local pancake made with eggs from happy chickens, a juicy schnitzel from a mountain pig: the limelight has recently been on regional delicacies offered by mountain inns and restaurants catering for day-trippers.
active summer
Good things from the Bregenzerwald
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execptional specialties
Regional cuisine with creative touches
The Bregenzerwald has a considerable number of restaurants and inns for those who enjoy good food. This includes a few exceptional addresses. MundArt The term “MundArt” has two meanings in the Bregenzerwald: firstly, it means the special dialects maintained in this region – even the Vorarlberg locals don’t understand it all! Secondly, “MundArt” stands for the creativity displayed by the Bregenzerwald catering trade. For them, it is a matter of etiquette to use produce from local farms in their kitchens: meat, vegetables, herbs and dairy products. The following award-winning Bregenzerwald inns and restaurants have made it their business to adopt “MundArt” as their motto. information www.mundart-restaurants.at
Gasthof Adler in Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 2966 www.adler-schwarzenberg.at Gasthof Hirschen in Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 2944-0 www.hirschenschwarzenberg.at Gasthof Krone in Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6201 www.krone-hittisau.at Gasthof Gams in Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2220 www.hotel-gams.at Hotel Krone in Au T +43 (0)5515 2201 www.krone-au.at Hotel Post in Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2207-0 www.hotelpostbezau.com Hotel Das Schiff in Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6220 www.schiff-hittisau.com Restaurant ‘s Schulhus in Krumbach T +43 (0)5513 8389 www.schulhus.com
execptional specialties
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Hotel Wirthaus zum Gämsle in Schoppernau The inn and small hotel are housed in a typical Bregenzerwald house. The establishment’s philosophy: to make everything as natural as possible – from the cuisine to the furnishings in the rooms. Declared “Vorarlberger Genuss Wirt” in 2009. information Hotel Wirthaus zum Gämsle T +43 (0)5515 30062 www.gaemsle.at
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Enjoyment with Hildegard von Bingen The kitchen in the Hotel Schwanen in Bizau is orientated towards the teachings of abbess Hildegard von Bingen. Fresh produce from the region and the hotel’s own garden is lovingly prepared into delicious meals. information Gasthof Schwanen T +43 (0)5514 2133 www.schwanen.at
Naze’s Hus in Mellau Naze’s (short name of Ignaz) Hus in Mellau, a small restaurant and B&B, uses only local produce. Naze’s Hus is accommodated in a carefully-renovated Bregenzerwald house listed for preservation with its typical, wood-shingle façade. Awarded the status of traditional inn in 2008 by “Vorarlberg isst…”. information Naze’s Hus T +43 (0)650 4627929 www.nazes-hus.at
family tips
Extravagant: Villa Maund The Villa Maund close to Schoppernau is a historical gem. Originally built as a hunting villa for an English banker, today it is part of the “Gämsle inn” in Schoppernau, and is used for culinary evenings and exquisite events. information Wirtshaus zum Gämsle T +43 (0)5515 30062 www.villamaund.com
active summer
Villa Maund in Schoppernau
well-being
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execptional specialties
Gabi Strahammer from Restaurant ’s Schulhus gathering herbs
Moor restaurateurs, Krumbach Four restaurateurs have taken up the topic of “Krumbach’s moorlands” as their mission. As “moor restaurateurs”, they offer their guests guided tours, cookery courses and moorland days to experience the moorland in full. At least one dish related to the moors is included in the menu throughout the year. The seasonal moor drink delights gourmets with various fragrances and aromas from the moor. The Spring and Autumn Moor Weeks are the culinary highlights in the annual calendar of the moor restaurateurs.
Tip: Moor weeks 2010 24 April to 2 May; 15 October to 26 October During the moor weeks, you can enjoy culinary delicacies from the moors at the moor restaurateurs. www.moorroom.at
Gasthof Adler T +43 (0)5513 8156-0 www.adler-krumbach.at Restaurant ‘s Schulhus T +43 (0)5513 8389 www.schulhus.com Kur- und Gesundheitshotel Rossbad T +43 (0)5513 5110 www.rossbad.com Krumbacher Stuba T +43 (0)5513 8724 www.krumbacher-stuba.at
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Who doesn’t occasionally long for a retreat, for a leisurely pace, for stimuli which pamper the body and soul? The Bregenzerwald is such a retreat. With a great selection of specialised hotels and range of services for your very own well-being.
family tips
well-being
culture dining out well-being
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health hotels
Bathing in the Bregenzerache
Curative or preventative: if you want to lend your health a helping hand, you are in the right place! Kur- und Gesundheitshotel Rossbad*** Therapeutic fasting, Moor vitality weeks, Kneipp treatments, wholefood cuisine. Krumbach T +43 (0)5513 5110 www.rossbad.at Vitalhotel Quellengarten*** Active hotel offering sports and relaxation activities. Spacious bathing and sauna complex plus fitness centre (open to the public). Lingenau T +43 (0)5513 6461-0 www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at
Gesundhotel Bad Reuthe**** Applications using mud, wellness and beauty package deals. Lovely 足bathing house with a sauna and wellness complex and pool in the garden (open to the public). Reuthe T +43 (0)5514 2265-0 www.badreuthe.at Pension Engel*** Therapeutic fasting according to Dr. Buchinger. Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6231-0 www.fastenkur.at Hotel Schwanen*** Detox and wellness programmes according to the teachings of Abbess Hildegard von Bingen. Bizau T +43 (0)5514 2133 www.schwanen.at
Hirschen Wohlfühlhotel**** Informal establishment, adventure swimming pool with panoramic view of the countryside. Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 21150 www.hirschen.at
Hotel Post**** Voted the best wellness hotel in Europe in 2008 by Geo Saison. Modernised in style in 2009. Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2207 www.hotelpostbezau.com
Sporthotel Steffisalp**** Modern, elegant hotel with spacious Steffis spa. Warth T +43 (0)5583 3699 www.steffisalp.at
dining out well-being
Romantik Hotel Das Schiff**** Lovely, new rooms and suites, spacious wellness area with swimming pool and garden, excellent cuisine. Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6220 www.schiff-hittisau.com
Landhotel Hirschen*** Yoga and herb weeks, wellness days, therapeutic fasting according to Dr Buchinger, talks on herbs, own herb garden and cellar. Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 2320 www.landhotel-hirschen.at
culture
Damülser Hof**** Wellnesshotel Location offering a breathtaking view at an altitude of 1,400 m above sea level. Damüls T +43 (0)5510 210 www.damuelserhof.at
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Vital Hotel Linde**** Wellness and golf hotel with the elegant Sunset spa and a magnificent view. (open to the public) Sulzberg T +43 (0)5516 2025 www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at
family tips
GAMS, Genießer- & Kuschelhotel**** “Blütenschloss” with cosy suites, The Da Vinci spa has been extended in 2009. Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2220 www.hotel-gams.at
active summer
Sonne Lifestyle Resort****S modern-yet-cosy designer rooms and suites, spacious comfort-zone spa. Mellau T +43 (0)5518 20100-0 www.sonnemellau.com
hiking
Hotel Krone**** Sky spa in the fourth and fifth storeys with a view of the countryside. Bathing lake in the garden. The swimming pool and the massage and beauty areas were modernised in 2009. Au T +43 (0)5515 2201-0 www.krone-au.at
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These hotels are particularly orientated towards pampering their guests with pleasurable and exciting sensations for body, mind and soul.
wellness hotels
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wellness days
Wellness with a view
Some of the health and wellness hotels in the Bregenzerwald also offer wellness days for visitors who are not guests of their establishments. Prior reservations are required for all these programmes. The prices are per person. Kur- und Gesundheitshotel Rossbad*** Krumbach T +43 (0)5513 5110 www.rossbad.at Rossbad wellness day Full-body massage, Scottish salt bath in the flotation lounger, affusion stimulating to the skin, use of the sauna and wellness area, including breakfast buffet, lunch and evening meal. â‚Ź 140
Gesundhotel Bad Reuthe**** T +43 (0)5514 2265-0 www.badreuthe.at Relax day 1 mud pack with freshly cut natural mud or herbal bath, 1 all-over body massage, 1 facial exfoliant and mask, including day ticket to the thermal bath and sauna and wellness world, fitness room. â‚Ź 98,70 Vitalhotel Quellengarten*** Lingenau T +43 (0)5513 6461-0 www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at Chill-out day 1 back massage, 1 wellness bath of your choice, 1 solarium session, day ticket to the bathing and sauna world, use of the fitness room. â‚Ź 85
wellness days
family tips barrier free culture
Landhotel Hirschen*** Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 2320 www.landhotel-hirschen.at Wellness day 1 hot stone massage or 1 herbal stamp massage, 1 coloured light and sound therapy, 1 herbal bath of your choice, use of the sauna and steam bath. € 108
active summer dining out
Sporthotel Steffisalp**** Warth T +43 (0)5583 3699 www.steffisalp.at “Desire for pampering moments” Bathrobe and slippers, sauna towels, use of the wellness area including vitality pool and four different saunas (8 a.m. until 8 p.m.). € 19
Vital Hotel Linde**** Sulzberg T +43 (0)5516 2025 www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at Wellness day – pure relaxation 1 pack of fresh hay flowers or almond oil bath, 1 back massage, day ticket to our Sunset spa with wellness pool, sauna complex, fitness room. € 68,50
hiking
Sonne Lifestyle Resort****S Mellau T +43 (0)5518 20100-0 www.sonnemellau.com Sunny day Includes relaxation treatment for the face and a paraffin intensive pack for the hands, back and neck massage with a special aromatic oil, Cleopatra pack in the flotation lounger, use of the wellness complex covering 1,500 m², drinks and snacks in the tea & juice corner. € 149 All offers can be combined with breakfast from the large buffet in the Marktwelt between 8 and 9 a.m. for € 17 per person.
Hirschen Wohlfühlhotel**** Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 2115-0 www.hirschen.at Enjoyment day A sparkling welcome, snugly bath robe, pampering facial, relaxing partial-body massage, light wellness lunch, relaxation in the whirlpool, in the sauna, in the steam bath, on waterbeds, total immersion in the panoramic adventure pool (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.). € 125
land & lives
Hotel Post**** Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2207 www.hotelpostbezau.com Aktive Regeneration Active regeneration Relaxation treatment, all-over body massage using aromatic oils (40 minutes), reflexology massage, herbal and whey bath. Use use of the bathhouse, fitness room, vitalising aperitif and light lunch. € 217
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water and moor
Barefoot path in Bizau
Water and moor are amongst the oldest remedies known to man. These destinations combine the playful with the informative and pleasant. Riefensberg barefoot course You can train your five motor skills at the 22 stations of the new barefoot and fitness course. This covers coordination, stamina, strength, agility and speed. The best thing to do is to cover the course three times, and to do the coordination and stamina exercises the first time round, to do the agility and strength exercises the second time round, and the speed exercises the third time round. information Riefensberg Tourismus T +43 (0)5513 8356 www.riefensberg.at Bizau – where water tickles your toes The Ulvenbach flows in the wide valley plane, close to the centre of Bizau. It is here that visitors can walk barefoot over a stretch about 0.6 km in length, take in the natural sights and sounds of the stream, and admire rare plants. A brochure con-
taining detailed directions is available from the Bizau tourist office. information Bizau Tourismus T +43 (0)5514 2129 www.bizau.at Moorbad Sibratsgfäll Mud provides the skin with moisture and lipids, which is appreciated by those suffering from allergies in particular. Mud also alleviates pain, and relaxes the body. It is now possible to try out a mud bath in the natural mud bath in Sibratsgfäll. Surrounded by Mother Nature on all sides, a paddling basin, two mud baths and a natural-water swimming pool await. (Early June to late September) information Sibratsgfäll Tourismus T +43 (0)5513 2121 www.sibra.at
water and moor
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Dates: 29 April to 21 October, every Thursday, 9.30 a.m.; on the Moor Days 2010 (6 May, 3 June, 1 July, 5 August, 2 September, 7 October), additional guided tours are held at 4 p.m. Duration: approx. 2 hours Price per person: € 5, children under 14: free of charge information & booking Krumbach village hall T +43 (0)5512 8157 www.moorroom.at
active summer
Moor seats with integrated information plaques
culture dining out well-being
Krumbach moors What is there to discover in the moors? Which plants and fruits from the moors are edible? What significance do moors lend the history of a region? Interested parties can only find the answers to these questions in Krumbach! Entitled “Moore Krumbach”, Krumbach has opened its moors, making them accessible to those interested in nature. What has been created is not a path in the normal sense of the word: instead, an artistically designed natural and cultural space has arisen. Architects Bernardo Bader, René Bechter and Paul Steurer designed the “moor space”, a walk-in wooden cube, and 14 “moor seats” which invite you to tarry a while, with integrated information points. Interested visitors can find out about the formation of the moors over the course of millennia: from their geology and moor ecology through to the highly specialised moor plants through to the region’s history of the use of peat. Four moor restaurateurs offer creative food with ingredients from the moor (→ page 94). Trained moor guides are available to take you on guided tours every Thursday.
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natural cosmetics
molke metzler production facility
In their manufactories, two families from the Bregenzerwald produce exceptional beauty products and drinks from natural products. Whey products Mountain farmer Ingo Metzler from Egg trusts the ancient knowledge handed down to him over the generations – he has rediscovered an old natural remedy in the form of whey. Whey is produced during cheese-making, is free of fat and protein, and contains numerous nutrients and vitamins. The Metzler family offers a wide selection of whey products: from the stimulating refreshment through to shampoos and creams, right through to the lip balm. The products are also available online. opening times of the hofladen Mon to Fri: 8 a.m. to 12 and 1.30 to 6 p.m. Sat: 8 a.m. to 12 information Metzler Käse-Molke, Egg T +43 (0)5512 3044 www.molkeprodukte.com
Mare’s milk products The Steurer family from Hittisau trusts in the curative, pleasant effect of mare’s milk. Mare’s milk has a positive effect on skin diseases such as neurodermitis and on digestive problems. The Steurer family processes the milk from their horses into first-class natural cosmetics, and offers mare’s milk for mineral cures, frozen or freeze-dried. The products are also available online. information Erlebnishof Steurer, Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 8149 www.stutenmilchkosmetik.at
vorarlberg
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Respectful yet warm-hearted hosts pamper you with their quality and high standards. Whether you go for plain or creative and light: you will find some of the best food in Austria here, which is impressively enhanced by the high number of excellent restaurants. The best-known Vorarlberg speciality is cheese.
culture
information Vorarlberg Tourismus Poststraße 11 6850 Dornbirn, Österreich The calendar of cultural events combines the traditional with the modern, T + 43 (0)5572 377033-0 F +43 (0)5572 377033-5 in the form of numerous, dedicated cultural events throughout the entire info@vorarlberg.travel province. At such renowned festivals www.vorarlberg.travel as the Bregenz Festival and the Schubertiade.
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Vorarlberg can do both: be deeply rooted as well as innovative! A penchant for the new, for the unexpected, is clearly visible in Vorarlberg’s (wooden) architecture. Nowhere else in Austria will you find as many wellbuilt, contemporary buildings.
Visitors appreciate the exciting interplay between expansive valleys, impressive mountains, lively small towns and picturesque mountain villages – all of which are found on an easily manageable scale. Within a short time, you can access a multitude of attractive sights in and around Vorarlberg and the international Lake Constance.
family tips
Vorarlberg is a cosmopolitan province interested in art, located in the most westerly corner of Austria. An alpine idyll and vibrant cultural centre at the same time. Exciting and full of life.
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Village hall in Andelsbuch
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how to reach vorarlberg
Munich 216 km
Friedrichshafen 62 km Memmingen 103 km
Lake Constance
D
Altenrhein 41 km Zurich 140 km
CH
Bregenzerwald Klein walsertal
BodenseeVorarlberg Großes Walsertal FL
Arlberg
Innsbruck 200 km
Alpenregion Bludenz A
Montafon CH
Distances to Egg in the Bregenzerwald
By car from the north • Stuttgart-Ulm-Lindau • or München-Memmingen-Lindau from the west via Swiss motorways* via Zurich-St. GallenSt. Margrethen from the south via the routes • Brenner motorway-Innsbruck- Arlberg pass-Lech-Warth** • or Arlberg road tunnel*-BludenzGroßes Walsertal- Bregenzerwald • or Arlberg road tunnel*-FeldkirchDornbirn-Bregenzerwald • Como-San Bernardino-ChurSt. Margrethen*-Bregenzerwald from the east • Innsbruck-Arlberg pass-LechWarth** • or Arlberg road tunnel*-BludenzGroßes Walsertal-Bregenzerwald • or Arlberg road tunnel*-FeldkirchDornbirn-Bregenzerwald
*
toll road
** closed in winter
toll sticker required by law A toll applies to the use of Austria’s motorways and dual carriageways. Types of toll sticker: “corridor” toll (border of Germany to the H ohenems exit, close to the Swiss border), 10-day, 2-month and yearly stickers. Information: www.asfinag.at By train The closest railway stations(distances to Egg): • Bregenz (A): 26 km • Dornbirn (A): 20 km • St. Margrethen (CH): 32 km • Lindau (D): 35 km Timetable information: www.oebb.at Onward travel by public buses: www.vmobil.at By aeroplane • Zurich (CH): several direct train connections to Bregenz • Friedrichshafen (D) • Memmingen (D) • Munich (D) • Innsbruck (A) Transfers from the airports to the Bregenzerwald: www.mytransfer.at
Bregenzerwald Tourismus
Opening hours: Mon–Fri: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat, Sun, bank holidays: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Impulszentrum 1135 . 6863 Egg . Vorarlberg . Austria T +43 (0)5512 2365 . F +43 (0)5512 3010 info@bregenzerwald.at . www.bregenzerwald.at