Worlds of Hiking by Lech Zürs Tourismus

Worlds of hiking

Selected hikes for your holiday in Lech Z端rs am Arlberg

www.lech-zuers.at

Worlds of hiking

Discover worlds of hiking Who hasn’t experienced and longed for it – the relief of a deep breath again when, after a stressful week of hustle and bustle, one starts off on a hike, is surrounded by luscious green pastures and breathes fresh air again at last – or the pleasant feeling of stretching one’s legs under the pub table after a long hike. In these moments – for example at beautiful viewpoints or idyllic picnic areas – one is in complete harmony with oneself and one's environment. The pace of our lives has accelerated to such an extent that our senses are sometimes hardly able to cope anymore. Hiking gives us back some of that fleeting time and provides an unhurried environment in which body and soul can really thrive. This is why you won’t find any of the usual superlatives on the next few pages – just a selection of various paths, routes, trails and hikes, suitable for people of all ages and levels of fitness. More than 350 km of clearly sign-posted hiking trails lead through a unique region of majestic mountains, blooming pastures, fragrant forests, murmuring streams and crystal clear mountain lakes. With a little luck, you can witness chamois and ibex jumping daringly across steep rocks, or hear the distinctive whistling call of marmots by the wayside. Happy cows graze peacefully on succulent pastures and traditional rustic taverns invite you to take a pleasant break and enjoy homemade products. We wish you a great time finding new perspectives, discovering new favourite spots and gaining new impressions!

All tours

Contents No.

Page Lech Card Difficulty index

Category

2 3

1 2 3

Burgwald path j Flühenweg path j Lech riverbank path j

4 5 6

Bodenalpe 10 – 11 The Green Riddle Ring and the Lech Family Trail 12 – 13 Ravensburger hut 14 – 15

FAMILY HIKES

7 8 9 10 11

Geology hike ”Rüfikopf” Geology hike ”Sea of Stone” – Freiburger hut Tannberg On the footsteps of the Walser people Nature protection area ”gypsum holes”

16 18 22 24 26

THEME HIKES

12 13 14

”Der Grüne Ring” (the Green Ring) – 1. Leg ”Der Grüne Ring” (the Green Ring) – 2. Leg ”Der Grüne Ring” (the Green Ring) – 3. Leg

28 – 29 30 – 31 32 – 33

MYTHOLOGICAL HIKES

15 16 17

On crystal clear paths Lechweg – 1. Leg Lechweg – 2. Leg

34 – 35 36 – 37 38 – 39

WATER HIKES

18 19 20

Göppinger hut Stuttgarter hut Gehren ridge

40 – 41 42 – 43 44 – 45

MOUNTAIN HIKES

21 22 23

Mohnenfluh Rüfispitze Karhorn fixed rope route

46 – 47 48 – 49 50 – 51

PEAKS

24 25 26 27

Spullersee Lake Kriegerhorn tour All around the Karhorn Burgwald Bike Trail

52 54 56 58

Behaviour guidelines for hikes / bus network Legend

4–5 6–7 8–9

– – – – –

– – – –

17 21 23 25 27

53 55 57 59

60 61

WALKS

CYCLING TOURS

Lech Card

Dfficulty index

Lech is waiting for you!

Difficulty index

Small, stylish, practical and as valuable as cash: the Lech card is your recreation ticket* for Lech and its surrounding areas.

Each recommendation in ”Worlds of Hiking” contains details about the difficulty of the hike. The most difficult hike in the brochure is marked as black, the difficult routes are blue, intermediate hikes are red and the easiest are yellow. The colours are shown in the elevation profile of the relevant hike and on the markers and sign-posts in the hiking area. The following illustration shows the basic classification:

It has everything you want, from modern mobility to healthy sports, from childfriendly activities to family-friendly fun, from breath-taking mountain adventures to cultivated cultural delights. A whole spectrum of experiences just for you. Can you hear that? The Arlberg is calling!

HIKING

MOUNTAIN HIKES

ALPINE

hikes in alpine valleys or low mountain ranges

day-trips in low mountain ranges, as well as classic mountain hut hikes

Alpine tours. You must be sure-footed and not suffer from vertigo.

Hikes on level terrain; more like long walks. The terrain consists of comfortable paths through forests and pastures or forest and transportation roads and tracks without significant changes in altitude.

Intermediate hikes including both comfortable hiking trails and sometimes stony paths and ”tree root trails”. Only moderate changes in altitude of up to 300 m at most and never for long.

Summit ascents with some easy climbing (I) without obvious dangers. Routes not sign-posted throughout, partially not on paths. You must have some alpine experience and be surefooted and free from vertigo.

Mostly unspoilt and clearly signposted paths and tracks, rarely in steep terrain. Short challenging passages are possible. The changes in altitude are so moderate that the hike can also be undertaken with athletic children.

Easy to walk, sign-posted mountain trails or mountain hut routes without any climbing required. Follows sometimes steep tracks and paths that do not have any obvious dangers. No summit ascents. The changes in altitude are hard work for untrained people, but for trained people they are moderate. A good level of fitness and sure-footedness are required.

Summit ascent with climbing up to a maximum difficulty level of II (UIAA). Some alpine fixed rope routes in categories C+D. Usually without paths and not sign-posted.

Enjoy this unique range of options: • • • • • • • • • •

Access to all running cable cars and chairlifts Local and tour buses, regional lines 40 and 91/92 between Lech and Zürs Child care in the Kids Active Club Forest swimming pool with rock island Tennis- and beach volleyball courts Running and walking trails Day fee for the Lech Golf Academy (driving range, putting green and 3 holes) Buxbaum family play park: mini golf, Pit-pat (obstacle billiards), billiards Open-air concerts, museums, library Guided adventure hiking on the Tannberg

* You receive the Lech Card with just one overnight stay.

Walks

reach a forest road, which you follow downhill to the left through the forest.

From here, it is only a few metres downhill until you get to a back road.

After the wooded area, you reach broad swathes through which the forest road winds its way downwards.

Follow the road on the left-hand side and turn right at the next junction going downhill until you reach an old roofed wooden bridge. Follow the Lech Promenade to the left going downstream. When you reach the Pension Waldesruh, cross the Lech River on the bridge and you will end up back at the starting point.

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Soon, you reach the rustic (3) Rud-Alpe. Here, you can rest and have a bite to eat on the generous sun terrace or in the cosy interior with its open fireplace. Further on downwards you will pass a (4) rest place.

1 Burgwald path This hike is a little more challenging but you will be rewarded with gorgeous views.

The walk starts at the hike starting point in front of the post office. You then follow the Lech Promenade downstream to (1) Martin’s Chapel. Here, you follow the forest trail to your left, going steeply uphill. After the first incline, you will get to a (2) rest place. Then continue through the forest, always slightly uphill. You can enjoy the view back over Lech from several clearings. You will eventually

Elevation profil: Burgwald path Distance: 3,0 km

Altitude difference:

191 m

Hikes: 192 m

Duration: 1:30 h

Condition:

• Special features: The walk can be shortened by using the Oberlech cable car • Sights: Martin’s Chapel ”an der Straß”; roadside shrine in the Tannberg district • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg or Oberlech and the Rud-Alpe

Walks

take a forest path to the left going slightly uphill. From here, you can already enjoy the fantastic panoramic view of Lech am Arlberg and the (1) 3-hole golf course. After a few metres, you will get to a (2) barbecue site built with great attention to detail. You will find everything you need for a fun barbecue here. It is therefore definitely a good idea to bring food and possibly paper plates and cutlery with you!

2 Flühenweg path This walk offers gorgeous views of the picturesque Lech am Arlberg.

The walk begins at the hike starting point in front of the post office. Follow the Lech Promenade upstream until you see the Hotel Pfefferkorn to your left. Walk past the hotel and turn left onto a back road going slightly uphill. The street goes through the Ebra district for a few metres. Soon, a paved path branches off to the left, which you follow to the edge of the forest. Here, you now

Elevation profil: Flühenweg path Distance: 3,3 km

Altitude difference:

90 m

Hikes: 90 m

Duration: 1:00 h

Condition:

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The walk continues along the same path until you reach a small forest. A very special rest stop awaits you here – the (3) Seelenbaumler (hammock). Take a seat, relax and enjoy the view of the mountain landscape.

The path continues to the edge of the forest, where you will find another (4) rest place. Here, turn left and follow the agricultural road past the stables and across the pasture until you reach the first houses. From here, continue along the paved back road through the Anger district to the church square. The (5) Steinplatz is located here, which boasts stone sculptures made from 6 different types of stone. These witnesses of the Earth's history invite you to a geological ”investigation”. You then walk around the church and, via a paved pathway, you will get back to the starting point.

• Special features: The pastures contain numerous medicinal herbs; there is a good place for a break at Mesner’s Stables (next to the church) • Sights: Parish church St. Nikolaus • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg

Walks

onto the back road. Follow the road past the (1) Chapel, continue straight ahead uphill, then across level ground until the path ends and leads onto a gravel forest path. Follow the path alongside the sparkling Lech River. When you reach the (2) Kneipp facilities, a wooden bridge leads across the Lech River to the (3) forest swimming pool. You can take a break here and relax in the warm water, which is at a constant temperature of 25°. The forest swimming pool offers lots of fun especially for children, with its water slide, rock island, children’s pool, playground, etc.

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Once you have refreshed yourselves, continue alongside the river past a (4) barbecue

3 Lech riverbank path This walk is ideal for families with small children, as a pram can be taken along.

From the hike starting point in front of the post office, follow the Lech Promenade on the left and continue upstream. Cross the road when you reach the old roofed wooden bridge and continue past the house ”Chalet Säge”. When you reach Hûs No. 8, turn right

Elevation profil: Lech riverbank path Distance: 3,2 km

Altitude difference:

118 m

Hikes: 69 m

Duration: 1:00 h

Condition:

site built with great attention to detail. Just before you reach the Zug district, you will find (5) relaxation recliners directly on the riverside. Follow the path until you get to the lower station of the Zug cable car. From here on, the path is paved again. Cross the bridge and walk across the car park to the (6) fish pond. Here you can do some fishing yourself and enjoy your freshly prepared fish right there and then. The journey back takes you along the Lech riverside path again, or you can walk into Zug town centre and take the hiking bus back to the starting point.

• Special features: The extensive gravel banks allow you to ”immortalise” yourself here with a little stone man • Sights: Omesberg Chapel • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg or Zug and the fish pond

Family hikes

lodge, follow the path to the left going uphill towards the Tristeller Alpe. The path continues fairly evenly here on level ground. You will reach a junction; follow the signpost to the left going downhill onto a forest road through the forest. Stay on the wide gravel road until you see a narrow track that branches off sharply to the left towards the Bodenalpe. Follow the path through the forest; a few steps will take you down to the Lech River.

This family hike is particularly diverse due to the many possible route options. The walk begins at the hike starting point in front of the post office. Follow the Lech Promenade upstream until you see the Hotel Pfefferkorn to your left. Walk past the hotel and turn left onto a back road going slightly uphill. The street goes through the Ebra district for a few metres. Soon, a paved path branches off to the left, which you follow to the edge of the forest. Here, you now take a forest path to your left going slightly uphill. From here, you can already enjoy the fantastic panoramic view of

Lech am Arlberg and the (1) 3-hole golf course. After a few metres, you will get to a (2) barbecue site built with great attention to detail. The walk continues down the same path until you reach a small wood. A very special spot for a rest awaits you here – the (3) Seelenbaumler (hammock). The path continues to the edge of the forest, where you will find another (4) rest stop. You now continue downhill to the stables and then turn right again onto a forest path. Follow the path through a forest and across a stream until you reach a christian wayside shrine. At the shrine, take the ascending supply road on the right. When you have passed a (5) rustic

Elevation profil: Bodenalpe Distance: 5,0 km

Altitude difference:

Hikes: 214 m

224 m

Duration: 2:00 h

Condition:

Cross the wooden bridge to get to the other side. From here, a narrow path leads upwards across a pasture to the (6) Bodenalpe. After a well-deserved rest, you can take the same path back to Lech, or you can take the hiking bus, which stops directly in front of the Bodenalpe.

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4 Bodenalpe

Route A: Tristeller Alpe When you reach the junction follow the signpost to Tristeller Alpe. Going slightly uphill, you will reach the Göldenboden Alpe after crossing wide pastures. Across mountain pastures and finally over winding roads, you will ascend steadily to the Tristeller Alpe. From there you have a fantastic view of Lech am Arlberg, Oberlech and Bürstegg. You can return via the same path. Route B: Hike around Stubenbach When you reach the junction to the Tristeller Alpe, follow the signpost to the left going downhill onto a forest road through the forest. After a few hairpin curves, a narrow forest path branches off to your left, which takes you back to the Stubenbach area and the Lech am Arlberg town centre.

• Special features: The path can also be completed in the opposite direction. • Sights: The Bodenalpe is a 400 year old building, today’s the Bodenalpe welcomes guests with beautiful architecture, charming ambience and invigorating fare. • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg, Stubenbach-Stüble and Bodenalpe

Family hikes

This leads you past amusing and whimsical points of interest that test the skills of small and large detectives alike. At the end of the trail, at the (2) Rud-Alpe, you will find Earth's most valuable asset, and waiting for you will be an award, a water playground, a fantastic terrace and a variety of culinary delights.

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After lunch you can carry on through the wildflower meadows of Schlegelkopf, past the 3D archery trail on the interesting (3) forest experience path through the Oberlech evergreen conifer forest. Hidden in the forest, lies a small lake – the (4) Libellensee – with mystical creatures just waiting to be discovered. Next, you will arrive at Oberlech, with its

5 The Green Riddle Ring and the Lech Family Trail The new Green Riddle Ring includes 14 points of interest of a playful nature on the way to the Rud-Alpe. From there, the Lech Family Trail leads through the forest of Oberlech, past the Libellensee (Dragonfly lake) to Muxelhof and its petting zoo.

The (1) Green Riddle Ring – Grüner RätselRing goes from Lech to the Rud-Alpe – a short and entertaining walking trail with puzzles and riddles for the whole family. To solve the riddles along the Green Riddle Ring, you need to have the ”Impossible Workbook”.

Elevation profil: Green Riddle Ring, Lech Family Trail Distance: 4,2 km

Altitude difference:

407 m

Grüner Rätselring Rud-Alpe

78 m

Duration: 2:00 h

Hikes: Condition:

Walderlebnisweg Libellensee

Streichelzoo Muxelhof

lovely sun terraces, where you will have the chance to rest and enjoy some refreshments. The Hotel Sonnenburg features, among other things, a playground with a climbing frame and a lovely stream to play in. Somewhat further up, at the Hotel Goldener Berg, there is another playground with a trampoline and a volleyball court. And right at the top of Oberlech is where the animals are to be found. The Muxelhof (5) petting zoo features donkeys, goats, rabbits, sheep and cows. The return journey can either be made in comfort with the Oberlech mountain railway or you can walk through the Burgwald into Dorf and towards Lech am Arlberg.

• The ”Impossible Workbook” for the Green Riddle Ring costs € 5,– and is available in the Lech Zürs Tourist Office or from your landlord. The book is needed in order to solve the riddles and also contains useful tips for all detectives. • There are plenty of places to stop for rest and refreshments along the route, such as the Rud-Alpe and all the restaurants with large sun terraces in Oberlech.

Family hikes

highest point, the (4) Stierlochjoch Pass (2,009 m). From here, the path continues gently downhill. After a few metres of altitude difference, you leave the wide alpine path. Continue straight ahead through the Mugo Pines and then later through the forest.

6 Ravensburger hut The hike to the Ravensburger hut is a great experience for the whole family, with beautiful views over the Spullersee Lake. From the hike starting point at the post office, you take the hiking bus towards Spullersee (please observe the toll fee). Get off at the last stop and walk around the (1) Spullersee Lake on the wide alpine path.

When you have left the lake behind, the path begins to ascend a little. When you reach the (2) Ravensburger hut, you can rest and have a bite to eat, enjoying the gorgeous view of the lake below you. After some refreshments, the alpine path continues uphill for a short distance. Keep to the left and reach the (3) Alpe Brazer Staffel. Between the residential house and the stables, the alpine path continues uphill; after a few hairpin bends, you have reached the

Elevation profil: Ravensburger hut Distance: 9,0 km

Altitude difference:

369 m

Mountain hikes: 714 m

Duration: 3:30 h

Condition:

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You will reach a forest and alpine road where you walk to the right going uphill for a stretch. Soon, you will see a sign-posted path to your left leading to the (5) ”Wasserfall-

weg”, the waterfall path. Now you walk down to the waterfall along a narrow trail. Shortly after the waterfall, you will get to a beautiful barbecue site that is recommended particularly for hot days. Follow the path continuing downstream towards Zug. You will reach a wide path. Now you can either walk on the right-hand side on the Lech riverbank path towards Lech am Arlberg, or you turn left and walk to the (6) fish pond and take the bus back to the starting point.

• Special features: The Spullersee Lake is also suitable for fishing. You can get your fishing permit at the Lech Zürs Tourist Office. • Sights: The waterfall and nearby barbecue site invite you to stay for a while • Refreshment stops: Ravensburger hut, Alpe Brazer Staffel, fish pond and restaurants in Lech am Arlberg or Zug

Theme hikes

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• Special features: On this hike, you will find the Geoweg logo (a mollusc) at each geological site of interest, along with a number and a capital letter for identification. • The accompanying brochure is available at the Lech Zürs Tourist Office and from the valley and summit stations of the Rüfikopf cable car. It costs € 5.– • Sights: ”Stone witnesses” – the sites of interest along the Geoweg adhere to the chronology of the history of the Earth as far as possible. In addition to a range of rock strata, a number of fossils can also be admired.

7 Geology hike ”Rüfikopf” This geological tour takes you on a fantastic journey through time – past the ”stone witnesses” on a trail through the centuries. Discover the secrets of a world that allows us to unlock new dimensions of time. From the hike starting point, follow the Lech Promenade upstream until you see the Rüfikopfbahn cable car to your left. Take the cable car up the (1) Rüfikopf (2,350 m).

When you have passed the top station of the Rüfikopfbahn cable car, turn right and follow the sign-posted path through the amazing (2) ”Rüfikopf Plateau” until you reach a wider path that will take you to the (3) Monzabonsee Lake. Here, follow the sign-posted path to your left going uphill to the pass. Then keep going uphill for a short stretch until you reach a wide alpine path. Turn right and follow the path back to the starting point.

Elevation profil: Geology hike ”Rüfikopf” Distance: 3,4 km

Altitude difference:

201 m

Mountain hikes: Duration: 1:30 h

Condition:

OVERVIEW OF THE JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

• Refreshment stops: Panorama restaurant Rüfikopf and restaurants in Lech am Arlberg 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 A B C D

Rüfikopf meets Abu Dhabi – the Dolomia Principale Formation Veined stone – fine strata created by microbial mats Crawled and burrowed through – traces of micro-life in the rock The changing sea level – grey and yellow lithographic limestone ”Cow hoof prints” on the seabed – the mystery of the megalodons A revealing cycle – sea level fluctuations and bank formation From stormy times – mud flakes become stone breccias The ”fluctuating sea” – rock strata and the sea level The changing climate – dark layers as evidence Born in the ocean – Rhaeto-Lias limestone made from shells and corals Boulders embedded with red – about breccia fissures and red Lias limestone Colouration due to oxidation in the sea – the red Lias limestone A ”living fossil” – the nautilus has been around for 500 million years Horns of Ammon – about the ammonites' beautiful spiral shape Spines in the rock – about the ”spiky” traces of sea urchins in the limestone Thunderbolts in the rock – the bizarre world of the belemnites Delicate life preserved in stone – fragments of sea lilies in the limestone When time stood still geologically – gaps in the sedimentation and mineralisation The foundation of the green meadows – about the Cretaceous shale and fertile soil in the Lech valley A violent collision – the Rüfikopf with its folds, an example of an overthrust mountain Time turned on its head – the Rüfispitze as an overthrust mountain The creation of the landscape – the power of Ice Age glaciers and the climate The beauty of the barren – to the karst area with its channels and sink holes

Theme hikes

sor of the stone sea. All the sites of interest are marked by metal sleeves indicating the relevant capital letters. Continue along the path, which takes you to the sites of interest through the (c) Karstgebiet region. At the next junction, turn left to a further (d) site of interest. Here you are challenged to discover countless belemnites, nautiloids and ammonites in the red limestone. They are generally regarded as the predecessors of the squid.

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Walk back to the junction and take the path going straight ahead. After just a few metres

8 Geology hike ”Sea of Stone” – Freiburger Hütte Delve into the stone sea of corals, sea shells, auger shells, ammonites ...

From the hike starting point at the post office, take the hiking bus towards Formarinsee Lake (please observe the toll fee). After the ride through the beautiful Zugertal valley, get off at the last stop. Follow the main road back to the (1) Alpe Formarin. After the alp, a pasture path branches off to the right, which takes you past the (2) ibex monument across alpine pastures. At the next junction, follow the sign-posted trail to your right going uphill. After the climb, you reach the first find site of interest: a (b) small coral reef, a precur-

you will encounter a big agglomeration of (e) Megalodontidae in various forms and cross sections, among them the ”ibex horn”. This is a giant clam, the shell of which has been partially abraded by erosion. Stay on this path until you reach the (3) Freiburger hut. Here you can have a bite to eat and enjoy the view of the (4) Formarinsee Lake. From here, you can either follow the wide supply road around the lake or take the shorter, narrower hiking trail to your right – this path is only recommended for experienced hikers that do not suffer from vertigo.

• Special features: Fossils up to 200 million years old can be discovered, examined and touched here • Sights: Stone Sea – a big agglomeration of fossils, among them the fossil referred to by local hunters as the ”ibex horn” • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg or Zug, Alpe Formarin, Gasthof Älpele and Freiburger hut

Theme hikes

Small geological encyclopaedia Oberrät limestone: This light limestone is approx. 220 million years old. Its formation is comparable to a ”small-scale barrier reef”: corals at the front with lagoon conditions behind them; a habitat for snails and shells, amongst other species. This sedimentary rock developed from the shells of these and from limestone deposits from the ocean.

Belemnites: Belemnites are stick-shaped, squid-like cephalopods with 10 arms. The skeletal rostrum of this mollusc is bulletshaped and has been preserved as a fossil. It died out approx. 70 million years ago and lives on in the form of squid today.

Red limestone: This limestone gives the Rote Wand (red wall) its name, is approx. 200 million years old and contains traces of iron. The main fossils here are ammonites and belemnites.

Megalodontidae (Fig. p. 23): These molluscs used to stick upright in the sand and could sometimes reach quite an impressive size. The shells of these extinct molluscs have been replaced by calcite. People used to believe that the formations in the rock resembling cow's feet were the devil's hoof prints.

Calcite: A ”crevice filler” that fills out cavities, e.g. cracks in the limestone. The aragonite that the shells of clams and snails are made of crystallises to form calcite. Branching corals, too, are filled with this white, crystal-like material.

Nautiloids: are squid with a spiralled or stretched shell with several chambers; the animal lives in the outermost chamber. In contrast to ammonites, the spirals of the shell are bent forwards, and nautiloids can still be found in our oceans today.

Ammonite (Fig. p. 20): Ammonites are cephalopods that died out around 70 million years ago. They had a flat, spiralled limestone shell, part of which was used as the body chamber. They are generally regarded as the predecessors of squid.

Please do not damage the objects – you would be destroying the fossils forever!

”Ibex horn” and Megalodontidae

Elevation profil: Geology hike ”Sea of Stone” – Freiburger hut Distance: 8,3 km

Altitude difference:

250 m

Duration: 3:30 h

Mountain hikes: Condition:

Theme hikes

9 Tannberg This varied hike takes you through the beautiful natural and cultural landscape of the Tannberg hiking region. Take the hiking bus towards Oberlech directly from the hike starting point at the post office. Get off at the last stop ”Schlössle”. Follow the road going uphill. Soon a paved back road branches of to the right. Follow the road until you get to the (1) view point ”Tannegg” incl. barbecue site. From here, a good path on your right takes you downhill to the far side of the Tobel River. Now you

take the wooden bridge to the other side and then ascend steadily to the (2) Gaisbühelalpe. Across colourful mountain pastures with extensive (3) chive fields, you ascend leisurely to the Auenfeld saddle. Here, turn left onto the wide alpine path and walk to the (4) Untere Auenfeldalpe. Continue along the alpine path to your left, following the stream through the Auenfeld out of the valley until you see a small path branching off to your right leading towards Körbersee Lake. Follow this path uphill and soon you will enjoy the beautiful view of the (5) Körbersee Lake. The path now follows the slope of the hill down to

Elevation profil: Tannberg Distance: 9,0 km

Altitude difference:

Mountain hikes: 288 m

354 m

Duration: 2:30 h

Condition:

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the shore of the lake. Continue along the shore until you reach (6) Hotel Körbersee. Keep going, following a distinctly wider alpine path until you reach the (7) Kalbelesee Lake. Now you are just a few metres, following the main road keeping right, from the bus stop. The hiking bus will take you back to the starting point.

Route A: Instead of following the narrow path towards Körbersee Lake, stay on the wide alpine path that leads you directly to the (8) ”Alpine museum on the Tannberg” and to the Batzenalpe. After visiting the museum and, if you like, taking some refreshments at the Batzenalpe, follow the alpine path uphill keeping right. The path will lead you directly to the Hotel Körbersee. From here, continue to the final point of this hike along the route described above.

• Special features: Instead of taking the hiking bus, you can also reach Oberlech with the Oberlech cable car and then hike to the ”Schlössle” on foot • Sights: ”Sennerei” alpine dairy farming museum – the front of the building offers the opportunity to take a peek through the windows to see the housing and living style of former days. • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg or Oberlech, Untere Auenfeldalpe, Batzenalpe and Hotel Körbersee

Theme hikes

Across colourful mountain pastures with extensive (3) chive fields, you will ascend leisurely to the Auenfeld saddle. Turn right and follow the hiking path, initially uphill and then downhill again, until you reach an alpine path just before Bürstegg.

10 On the footsteps of the Walser people This route takes you to numerous sites that are significant in terms of culture and natural history.

Take the hiking bus towards Oberlech directly from the hike starting point at the post office. Get off at the last stop ”Schlössle”. Follow the road. Soon a paved back road branches off to the right, so you will get to the (1) view point ”Tannegg” incl. barbecue site. From here, a narrow path on your right takes you downhill to the far side of the Tobel River. Now take the wooden bridge to the other side and then ascend steadily to the (2) Gaisbühelalpe.

Elevation profil: On the footsteps of the Walser People Distance: 6,6 km

Altitude difference:

294 m

558 m

Duration: 2:30 h

Mountain hikes: Condition:

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Go to the left until you reach (4) Bürstegg. You can rest here and take in the unique landscape and peacefulness. On nice days, descending to the (5) Wanghus house is definitely worth the trip. To get there, follow the

path through the pasture behind Bürstegg going right. Soon, the path becomes a narrow track that goes downhill fairly steeply to the Wanghus and ends at the bus stop. In the event of rain, the descent from Bürstegg to the Bodenalpe via the alpine path is recommended. Here, too, the path ends right at a bus stop. The hiking bus will take you back to the starting point.

• Special features: In the footsteps of the Walser settlers on the Tannberg – this walking guide invites you on a fascinating historical journey through the cultural landscape of the Tannberg. Drawing on the ancient buildings, abandoned Walser settlements, legends and stunning landscape, the author paints a multifaceted portrait of historical highlights with enthralling details and rich historical atmosphere. € 16.50 – available at the Lech Zürs Tourist Office • Places of interest: Wang-Hus – the oldest house in Lech am Arlberg • Bürstegg – a former Walser settlement, which includes a church and used to be inhabited all year round, but is now only used for alpine farming • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg or Oberlech, Bürstegg and Bodenalpe

Theme hikes

11 Nature protection area ”gypsum holes” The ideal themed hike for families, on which ten different types of orchids can be discovered. From the Lech post office you take the Oberlech mountain railway, which is right next to it, and then continue your journey with the Petersbodenbahn cable car. From here you take the path uphill for a short distance, then turn right and over the gravel path back down

in the direction of the ”Gipslöcher” turn-off. Then you turn left, cross the (1) Gipslöcher nature reserve and follow the service road on the right down to (2) Grubenalpe. Turn right at the Alpe and take the geological nature trail. Follow the path to the left going downhill through beautiful pastures full of flowers towards Oberlech. You will reach another path. Follow it, keeping right and going downhill. The path leads onto a paved back road.

Elevation profil: Nature protection area ”gypsum holes” Distance: 4,0 km

Altitude difference:

Bergstation Petersbodenbahn

133 m

405 m

Duration: 1:30 h

Mountain hikes: Condition:

Oberlech

Theme hikes

Turn right and walk past the Hotel Goldener Berg and follow the path to the (3) Bergbahn Oberlech cable car.

From here, you can either take the cable car back to the starting point or take the hiking path through the ”Burgwald” forest or across the Rud-Alpe back to the starting point.

Additional information:

The fast-eroding gypsum landscapes display varying morphological phenomena. On the one hand, gypsum formation leads to a swelling of the ground and thus to the formation of elevations in the terrain. The sulphate mineral anhydrite, which is stable at great depths, is turned into gypsum on the surface level through water absorption. This also brings about an increase in volume of 50 %. On the other hand, gypsum is dissolved and gypsum holes are created. An annual average of 3 kg of rock per square metre is dissolved and removed subterraneously.

Approximately 220 million years ago, in the Triassic age, the climate of the Oberlech region was very arid and hot near the equator. The landscape of the then coastal area consisted of many small lagoons. Floods left behind water in the lagoons, which then evaporated in the scalding heat. As a result, the concentration of the solute substances rose and sulphates (gypsum, anhydrite) were emitted. Since the formation of the gypsum 220 million years ago, the Oberlech region has been moving northwards on a tectonic plate. This plate collided with the European plate, forming the Alps, and the former lagoon sediments were lifted to high altitudes.

INSIDER’S TIP:

The gypsum holes are special in botanical terms, too, as each gypsum hole creates a special microclimate for plants.

• Special features: The varied landscape also provides protection to marmots. When the orchids are in bloom from July to mid August, 10 different types of orchids can be found right next to the hiking path. • Sights: The gypsum holes – with over 1000 sinkholes that are unique in size and appearance, this is one of Europe's special geological sites. The largest sinkhole has a diameter of 100 m and a depth of 35 m. • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg and Oberlech

Mythological hikes

Shortly before crossing the Pazüelbach stream, you will see the very special (6) Hüttenbibliothek library. You can select a nice book here, read for a while and relax. Then continue along the wide alpine path, past the valley station of the Trittkopf lift and onwards, ascending slightly until the path leads steeply downhill all the way to Zürs am Arlberg.

INSIDER’S TIP:

When you reach Zürs, you can take the hiking bus back to the starting point or you can

12 ”Der Grüne Ring” – 1. Leg (the Green Ring) The newly-designed hike takes you onto the trails of the legendary ”White Ring” ski tour on three daytrips through the beautiful mountain landscape of Lech Zürs am Arlberg.

From the hike starting point, follow the Lech Promenade upstream until you see the Rüfikopfbahn cable car to your left. Take the cable car to the (1) Rüfikopf (2,350 m). At the top station of the Rüfikopfbahn cable car there is a (2) book, in which you can document your visit. Then follow the (3) Geology hike ”Rüfikopf” going downhill towards (4) Monzabonsee Lake. From there, continue downwards to the (5) Monzabonalpe.

Elevation profil: ”Der Grüne Ring” – 1. Leg Distance: 6,0 km

Altitude difference:

96 m

699 m

Mountain hikes: Duration: 2:30 h

Condition:

take a little detour and visit the European watershed. To do so, follow the road through Zürs until you reach the Trittkopf lift. Here, a pasture trail winds through the grazing pastures alongside the river towards the Flexenpass. When you reach the Flexenpass, cross the street and you will find this impressive installation right next to the Flexenhäuslhouse.

• Special features: On this three-day hike, you enter a modern world of mythology that is very humorously and charmingly designed. You can get the book to accompany the hike at the Lech Zürs Tourist Office for € 12.–. • Sights: The European Watershed – here, the water divides and flows either to the Black Sea or into the North Sea • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg, Panorama restaurant Rüfikopf, Alpe Monzabon and Flexenhäusl • At the (7) post boxes, you can pick up free postcards that you can write on the spot and throw back into the post box. Post is collected and sent out once a year.

Mythological hikes

Up here you can see the (6) bivouac. Follow the hairpins downhill past (7) Taurin the Giant until you reach another hiking trail. Keep to the right and then turn left going downhill shortly afterwards. Continue downhill until you reach the Lechweg trail.

INSIDER’S TIP:

Here, you can turn left and take a short detour to the (8) waterfall and the barbecue site.

13 ”Der Grüne Ring” – 2. Leg (the Green Ring) Take the hiking bus towards Zürs directly from the hike starting point at the post office. Get off at the Zürs stop and walk along the main road until you reach the roundabout.

cave and past the (3) Gate until you reach the (4) Glacial city of Madloch, then on up to the highest point of the Madlochjoch Pass, where you will find a (5) book which you can sign.

Shortly after the roundabout, take the supply road going steeply uphill with hairpin bends until you reach the (1) Zürsersee Lake and then continue uphill to the (2) Taurins

From there, a narrower path leads through partially karsified terrain downhill to the pass between the Stierlochkopf and the Zuger Mittagsspitze.

Elevation profil: ”Der Grüne Ring” – 2. Leg Distance: 9,5 km

Altitude difference:

793 m

1005 m

Mountain hikes: Duration: 5:30 h

Condition:

Or you can stay on the trail and walk past the (9) fish pond until you reach the bus stop in Zug town centre. From here, you can take the hiking bus back to the starting point. Those who have not had enough yet can turn right onto the Lech riverbank path and take a nice stroll back into Lech am Arlberg.

• Special features: The bivouac – serves as a dwelling for anyone who wants to experience something unique and can make do with a slightly more spartan accommodation. The key for this airy refuge is available at the Lech Zürs Tourist Office. (Please register beforehand) • Sights: Taurin the Giant – to represent the legend, a huge giant made of wood stands in a crevice, trying to carry the scattered lumps of rock back up • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg or Zug, and fish pond • At the (10) post boxes, you can pick up free postcards that you can write on the spot and throw back into the post box. Post is collected and sent out once a year.

Mythological hikes

From there, walk downhill to the (6) stone wall, past the Speichersee Lake to the (7) Kriegeralpe. After some invigorating refreshments, continue along the wide alpine path. Soon, you take a path that branches off to the right. At the next junction, take the

Elevation profil: ”Der Grüne Ring” – 3. Leg Distance: 8,7 km

Altitude difference:

644 m

715 m

Mountain hikes: Duration: 4:30 h

which will take you directly to the Rud-Alpe.) From here, follow the wide supply road going steeply downhill to the (10) Rud-Alpe, where you will be rewarded with refreshments on the beautiful sun terrace.

Turn right and walk past the Hotel Goldener Berg. Here you will reach a gravel path on your left which takes you back downhill to the lower station of the Oberlech cable car.

Continue downhill from here until you reach a paved back road. Keep to the left and turn right at the next junction and continue downhill. This path will take you to the old roofed wooden bridge.

Condition:

INSIDER’S TIP:

A pasture trail branches off to the right here, which leads up through the ”ditch” to where the alp is fenced off. From there, follow the path diagonally to the right, slightly uphill between pillars 7 and 8 of the Zug cable car to the edge of the forest. A forest path then goes steeply uphill through the (2) Scribbles

to the (3) Balmalp. From here, a wider alpine path continues, on level ground at first, then inclining to the right and then further uphill to the peak of the (4) Kriegerhorn (2,173 m) (but you can also stay on the alpine path and walk directly to the Kriegeralpe).

lovely hiking trail to the left through blooming alpine pastures going downhill until you reach a path by the river. Follow the path to the right going downhill alongside the river until you reach a paved back road.

Turn right and follow the supply road through the forest clearing to the (8) Libellensee Lake. The (9) forest education trail will take you to the extensive pastures of the Schlegelkopf (you can also follow the trail going downhill from the Oberlech cable car,

14 ”Der Grüne Ring” – 3. Leg (the Green Ring) Take the hiking bus towards Zug from the hike starting point at the post office. Get off at the ”Zuger Kirchle” stop. Follow the paved road through town until you reach the turnoff to the (1) fish pond.

Mythological hikes

Follow the Lech Promenade to the left of the river until you reach the Pension Waldesruh. Cross the Lech River on the bridge and you end up back at the starting point.

• Special features: Scribbles – here you will encounter woodcarvings of mythological creatures at every turn • Sights: The Libellensee Lake – hidden deep within the forest, the shores of this calm lagoon are inhabited by countless mythological creatures • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg, Zug or Oberlech, Kriegeralpe and Rud-Alpe • At the (11) post boxes, you can pick up free postcards that you can write on the spot and throw back into the post box. Post is collected and sent out once a year.

Water hikes

Just 100 m into the valley along the paved toll road, you will find the spring of the (4) Schwarzbach River. Walk over the bridge back to the (5) barbecue site and follow the hiking trail alongside the river until you cross the Lech when you reach the (6) Gasthof Älpele.

15 On crystal clear paths On this hike you discover the source of the Lech spring water, which is also fondly referred to as ”Chateau Madloch” or ”Schwarzbach Riesling”.

From the hike starting point at the post office, take the ”Lech riverbank path” hike described above to Zug, or take the hiking bus to Zug. When you have passed the (1) fish pond, continue on the left bank of the Lech River going upstream. You can cross the Lech at a bridge and will soon reach the (2) sawmill. Here is the natural spring of the (3) Weissbach River.

Elevation profil: On crystal clear paths Distance: 4,1 km

Altitude difference:

120 m

Hikes: Duration: 0:45 h

Condition:

INSIDER’S TIP:

Here you can rest for a while and then take the hiking bus back to the starting point.

Additional information: The high-alpine origin of the Lech spring water guarantees natural drinking water that is, to a large extent, untainted by pollutants caused by civilisation. Even using highly-sensitive methods, no levels of, for example, heavy metals, pesticides or hydrocarbons can be found in the Schwarzbach spring. Likewise, the content of generally undesirable nitrate is more than fifty times below the acceptable guideline value of 1 mg per litre (this value is often exceeded in regions with intensive agriculture).

• Special features: Sections of the Lech have been made available for fly fishing. Fishing permits are available at the Lech Zürs Tourist Office. • Sights: The water treasure of the Lech municipality – fulfils all the criteria for the designations ”suitable for a low-sodium diet” and ”suitable for the preparation of baby food”. • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg or Zug, fish pond and Gasthof Älpele

Water hikes

beautiful panoramic view of the lake. Turn back and follow the main road back to the (2) Alpe Formarin. After the alp, a path through a pasture branches off to the right, which takes you past the (3) ibex monument and across alpine pastures.

INSIDER’S TIP:

At the next junction, follow the sign-posted trail to the left, stay alongside the Lech going

16 Lechweg – 1. Leg This easy long-distance hike takes you across 120 km of trails through the Alps and one of Europe’s last wild river landscapes.

Take the hiking bus that heads towards the Formarinsee Lake from the hike starting point at the post office (please observe the toll fee). Get off at the last stop and follow the supply road going gently downhill to the (1) Formarinsee Lake. Here, you can enjoy the

Elevation profil: Lechweg – 1. Leg Distance: 14,6 km

Altitude difference:

195 m

Mountain hikes: 629 m

Duration: 5:00 h

Condition:

out down the valley, past the (4) Gasthof Älpele until you reach the (5) fish pond in Zug. From here, you can take the ”Lech riverbank path” already described above all the way to Lech am Arlberg. You will pass interesting resting places, idyllic barbecue sites and cosy inns and restaurants on your way.

• Special features: Further information on the long-distance hike is available at the Lech Zürs Tourist Office or at www.lechweg.com • Sights: The Formarinsee Lake – a natural mountain lake where fishing is also permitted. You can obtain a fishing permit at the Lech Zürs Tourist Office. • Possible stops: Gasthaus Älpele, restaurants in Zug and Lech am Arlberg

Water hikes

Stay on the wide forest path that takes you above the ”Lech canyon” to a (2) small wooden bridge across the Lech.

INSIDER’S TIP:

From here, continue upstream, first along a wagon road and later along a narrow paved road that leads to (3) Warth town centre.

The hiking bus will take you back to Lech am Arlberg from here. If you enjoyed the Lech path, you can continue along it all the way to Füssen im Allgäu.

• Special features: The path can also be walked in the opposite direction • Sights: Warth town centre – the parish church St. Sebastian and the Walserhus house are impressive testimonies to the Walser arts and crafts • Refreshment stops: Bodenalpe, restaurants in Warth and Lech am Arlberg

17 Lechweg – 2. Leg 125 kilometres cannot be covered in a single day. This second leg of the hike takes you above the ”Lech canyon” all the way to Warth.

The walk begins at the hike starting point in front of the post office. Follow the ”Bodenalpe” trail described above until you reach a narrow track that branches off sharply to the left towards (1) Bodenalpe.

Elevation profil: Lechweg – 2. Leg Distance: 9,3 km

Altitude difference:

593 m

Grillstelle

Mountain hikes: 544 m

Duration: 4:30 h

Bodenalpe

Condition:

Brücke

Warth

Mountain hikes

wide basin to the Schönbühel. From here, the path continues slightly downhill to the Upper Johannesjoch pass. The path then continues steeply downhill into a basin.

INSIDER’S TIP:

Now there is a steep ascent to just below the peak of the eastern Johanneskopf. From here, the path leads in a gentle downward slope all the way to the (3) Göppinger hut (2,245 m). After resting for a while, follow the path to the right going downhill to Laubegg.

18 Göppinger hut This slightly longer and difficult hike should be started early in the morning and only in good weather conditions.

Take the hiking bus towards Formarinsee Lake from the hike starting point at the post office (please observe the toll fee). Get off at the last stop (1) Formarinsee Lake. Walk on to the (2) Alpe Formarin. Follow the path that branches off to the left going uphill. A short, steep incline across steel-secured rock cliffs follows. Soon, the path becomes more moderate and leads through a

Elevation profil: Göppinger hut Distance: 12,5 km

Altitude difference:

861 m

Mountain hikes: 1171 m

Duration: 6:00 h

Condition:

From here, a steep path with hairpin bends leads you down to the (4) Upper Älpele. The path then becomes slightly wider and leads to the (5) Gasthaus Älpele in a gentle downward slope. From here, take the hiking bus back to the starting point (please observe the toll fee).

• Special features: A wildly romantic alpine path through a very beautiful landscape • Sights: Climbing park Göppinger hut – just behind the hut there is a natural climbing park for sports climbers with around 10 different routes • Refreshment stops: Gasthaus Älpele, Göppinger Hütte and restaurants in Zug and Lech am Arlberg

Mountain hikes

19 Stuttgarter hut This very easy mountain hike leads you through untouched valley basins and across mountain crests with beautiful views.

Take the hiking trail to the left uphill to a pass. Continue along a relatively steep path with hairpins going downhill to a saddle. Follow the path downhill to the valley floor of the (2) Ochsengümple.

From the hike starting point at the post office, follow the Lech Promenade upstream until you reach the Rüfikopfbahn cable car. Take the cable car up the (1) Rüfikopf (2,350 m). From here, take the wide alpine path downhill until you reach a signpost.

Follow the trail to the right to the very end of the valley. There are no more significant changes in altitude after this. From here, the trail becomes a little steeper going uphill until you reach a junction. Turn right going uphill to the (3) Rauhekopfscharte. Then continue gently downhill to the (4) Stuttgarter hut.

Elevation profil: Stuttgarter hut Distance: 10,2 km

Altitude difference:

378 m

Mountain hikes

Mountain hikes: 981 m

Duration: 4:00 h

Condition:

After a bite to eat, follow the trail going steadily downhill until you reach a mountain torrent. The trail continues quite steeply downhill to the valley floor of the (5) Pazüeltal.

along a supply road gently downhill until you reach a paved back road in Zürs am Arlberg. Follow the road, continuing downhill past the (6) mountain church, until you reach the main road.

From here, the path continues in a gentle downward slope to the Trittalpe. Continue

The hiking bus will take you back to the starting point from there.

INSIDER’S TIP:

• Special features: From the Bockbach saddle, you can enjoy a gorgeous view of the Allgäuer Alpen all the way to the Zugspitze • Sights: Bergkirche Zürs – this mountain church is a religious building of several storeys towers above visitors like a castle. And, like a donjon, the three-storey tower symbolizes the significance of the church, which is additionally marked with a red cross. • Refreshment stops: Panorama restaurant Rüfikopf, Stuttgarter hut and restaurants in Lech am Arlberg

Mountain hikes

pins, up the (2) Gehrengrat ridge (2,439 m). Descend on the other side on a very steep path with hairpins through tough terrain to the (3) Geology hike ”Sea of Stones”.

INSIDER’S TIP:

Follow the trail going straight ahead without significant changes in altitude through the Karst region to the (4) Freiburger hut (1,918 m).

20 Gehren ridge This difficult hike leads past two lakes and across the Gehrengrat ridge.

Get off at the last stop and follow the supply road around the lake. After a few turns, a hiking path branches off to the right here.

Take the hiking bus to Spullersee Lake from the hike starting point at the post office (please observe the toll fee).

Follow the path uphill until you reach the (1) Schützhütte hut. Continue uphill across mountain pastures. The path continues, with a number of hair-

Elevation profil: Gehren ridge Distance: 10,6 km

Altitude difference:

521 m

Mountain hikes: 521 m

Duration: 4:00 h

Condition:

After resting and taking a bite to eat, take the supply road around the lake to the bus stop. Experienced hikers can take the track above the eastern shore going slightly downhill back to the bus stop.

• Special features: This area is home to Europe's largest ibex colony. With a little luck, you will come across these majestic animals. • Sights: Sea of Stones – fossils up to 200 million years old can be found on the high plateau. • Refreshment stops: Freiburger Hütte, Gasthof Älpele, restaurants in Lech am Arlberg and Zug

Peaks

From here, the trail ascends gently to the (2) Untere Gaisbühelalpe. Turn left here and hike through sometimes swampy mountain pastures across the valley floor. A mule track then takes you quite steeply upwards to the Obere Gaisbühelalpe. Walk past it and then in a wide circle gently uphill to the basin below the Mohnenfluh saddle. Carry on to the Mohnenfluh saddle and continue towards the mountain on a path with steep hairpins and across rocks and boulders to the peak.

This hike is particularly rewarding when undertaken at sunrise. You can enjoy the first rays of sunlight of the new day across dewy, steaming pastures looking towards the peak.

Take the hiking bus towards Oberlech directly from the hike starting point at the post office. Get off at the last stop ”Schlössle” and follow road uphill. Soon a paved back road branches off to the right, so you will get to the (1) view point ”Tannegg” incl. barbecue site. A gravel hiking trail to your right leads down into the valley and across a wooden bridge to the other side of the Tobel River.

Elevation profil: Mohnenfluh Distance: 10,3 km

Altitude difference:

Alpine: 861 m

943 m

Duration: 3:00 h

Condition:

You will reach a wider riverside path, which you follow keeping right alongside the Gipsbach River. The path leads onto a paved back road.

From the (3) Mohnenfluh peak (2,542 m) you can enjoy a fantastic panoramic view. Follow the path back to the Mohnenfluh saddle and from there keep to the right until you reach the top station of the Steinmähder lift.

Turn right and walk past the Hotel Goldener Berg. Here you will reach a path that takes you to the top station of the (5) Oberlech cable car.

The path leads to a supply road, which you follow downhill to the (4) Kriegeralpe. Treat

Enjoy the comfortable ride back into the valley and to the starting point.

INSIDER’S TIP:

21 Mohnenfluh

yourself to a little rest and enjoy the traditional cuisine. Then continue along the supply road going downhill. Soon, a path branches off to the right, which you follow going downhill. Turn left onto a path through pastures and walk downhill towards Oberlech.

• Special features: This hike can also be completed in the opposite direction, which makes this sunrise route very rewarding, too. The hike can be shortened by using the Petersbodenbahn cable car. • Sights: Peaks view – the view of Lake Constance from the peak is breathtaking • Refreshment stops: Kriegeralpe, restaurants in Oberlech and Lech am Arlberg

Peaks

(2) Rüfispitze peak (2,632 m). This provides a wonderful view of the glittering (3) Monzabonsee Lake. Take the same path back to the saddle. A path then branches off to the right, which you take going downhill to the plain of the (4) Ochsengümple. After crossing a river, continue along a mountain ridge, ascending slightly, until you reach the intersection with the Friedrich-MeyerWeg.

ter saddle. The path becomes slightly wider and descends in hairpins to the Tälialpe. Follow the alpine path further keeping to the left going downwards until you reach a paved back road in the (6) Stubenbach district. Follow the road to the bus stop. From here, you can take the hiking bus back to the starting point or you can take the Flühenweg described above back to Lech am Arlberg town centre.

22 Rüfispitze Beautiful hike to a peak with a grand view. From the hike starting point at the post office, follow the Lech Promenade until you reach the Rüfikopfbahn cable car. Take the cable car to the (1) Rüfikopf top station (2,350 m).

Then take the wide alpine path straight ahead downhill until you reach the signpost. A short ascent to a pass follows. From there, continue on a steep path with hairpins down to the saddle to the north-western ridge of the Rüfispitze. Keep going along the ridge. At the end of the grass ridge, there is a small cliff ascent that is secured by steel ropes. Continue across rocks and boulders to the

Elevation profil: Rüfispitze Distance: 9,6 km

Altitude difference:

Alpine: 489 m

1351 m

Duration: 4:00 h

Condition:

INSIDER’S TIP:

Follow the road below the Wösterspitzen peaks to the left until you reach the (5) Wös• Special features: The hike can be shortened by using the Rüfibahn cable car • Sights: Geoweg Rüfikopf – a journey through the history of the Earth. On this exciting, informative hike you will pass through the grandiose alpine ”stone garden”, in which magnificent flowers and herbs provide enchanting contrasts to the various rock formations. • Refreshment stops: Panorama restaurant Rüfikopf, Stubenbach Stüble and restaurants in Lech am Arlberg

Peaks

To do so, turn left at the saddle and follow the sign-posted path to the peak. Back at the access point, follow the (2) fixed rope route to the (3) Karhorn peak (2,416 m).

23 Karhorn fixed rope route Due to its moderate length and difficulty, this fixed rope route is also suitable for beginners. The ascent and descent do require a good fitness level, however. For those who do not feel entirely secure, experienced mountain guides are there to help.

Take the free hiking bus to Warth from the hike starting point at the post office. The (1) Steffisalp-Express will take you to the top station. Right after the top station, a path branches off to the left going uphill, which you should take. You will get to a basin, on the left side of which a path goes uphill to the saddle. Before taking the path on the right to the access point of the rope route, you can stop off at the peak of the Warther Horn (2,256 m) if you wish.

Elevation profil: Karhorn fixed rope route Distance: 6,0 km

Altitude difference:

556 m

990 m

Alpine: Duration: 4:30 h

Condition:

INSIDER’S TIP:

In addition to plenty of climbing fun of difficulty levels II and III, a varied panorama awaits you, extending all the way to Valluga, Säntis and the Allgäuer Alps.

The descent uses the normal route until the path leads onto a wider trail on the Karbühel. Here you can either turn left towards (4) Bürstegg and continue downhill to the (5) Bodenalpe, or your can turn right towards the Auenfeld saddle and then hike to Oberlech from there. In both cases, you can take the hiking bus back to the starting point in Lech am Arlberg.

• Special features: Besides the obligatory hiking equipment, a rope climbing set and helmet must be taken along. • Sights: Vorarlberg’s first fixed rope route ever was installed on the eastern ridge of the distinctive Karhorn. • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Warth, Bürstegg, Bodenalpe and restaurants in Lech am Arlberg

Cycling tours

24 Spullersee Lake A long but moderately difficult mountain bike tour with incredible views and plenty of resting places to choose from.

From the hike starting point at the post office, follow the Lech Promenade upstream until you reach the old roofed wooden bridge. Turn right towards Zug here. After leaving Zug district, the road leads onto a (1) toll road (free for cyclists). Follow the paved road past the (2) Gasthof Älpele and

Elevation profil: Spullersee Lake Distance: 25,0 km

Altitude difference:

809 m

Cycling tour: 805 m

Duration: 4:00 h

Condition:

the (3) forest camp until you reach the junction. Turn left and continue uphill past the (4) Alpe Dalaaser Staffel until you reach the dam wall of the (5) Spullersee Lake.

The path then continues on coarse gravel and with hairpin bends down to the Stierlochalpe. Follow this alpine path downhill towards Zug.

Along a gravel road, you go around the lake across the southern dam wall. From here, the path ascends towards the (6) Ravensburger hut. After passing the Ravensburger hut, continue ascending at the (7) Alpe Brazer Staffel until you reach the (8) Stierlochjoch Pass (2,009 m).

You will reach a paved back road at the (9) fish pond. A short ascent follows, then turn right onto the main road.

INSIDER’S TIP:

From here, walk through Zug town centre on the same path back to the starting point.

• Special features: Up until the Spullersee Lake, the route is also suitable for racing bikes and road bikes • Sights: St. Sebastian church in Zug – the justification for the construction of this small church was purportedly a vow made during the times of the plague in the early 17th century, a fact which is backed up by its dedication to St. Sebastian • Refreshment stops: Restaurants in Lech am Arlberg or Zug, Gasthof Älpele, Dalaaser Staffel, Ravensburger Hütte, Brazer Staffel and fish pond

Cycling tours

(5) Kriegeralpe. After some refreshments here, it is only a short walk uphill to the (6) Speichersee Lake and the (7) stone wall.

INSIDER’S TIP:

Very fit cyclists can take a little detour turning left onto the supply road and up to the top station of the Kriegerhorn cable car and the (8) Kriegerhorn summit cross (2,173 m). Or else you can cycle past the Speichersee

25 Kriegerhorn tour A challenging tour that takes athletic cyclists all the way to the Kriegerhorn peak.

Continue past the (1) Berg area going straight ahead, ascend through the forest and then across a mountain pasture until you reach the first houses of (2) Oberlech.

From the hike starting point in front of the post office, follow the main road downstream towards Warth. Shortly before leaving Lech am Arlberg, turn onto the paved back road that goes uphill towards Oberlech.

After the ”Schlössle” bus stop, take the paved bach road right and continue cycling uphill until you reach the (3) view point ”Tannegg” incl. barbecue site. From here, follow the gravel alpine path to the left going uphill past the (4) Grubenalpe. From here, the trail ascends steadily to the

Elevation profil: Kriegerhorn tour Distance: 16,7 km

Altitude difference:

731 m

Cycling tour: 731 m

Duration: 2:30 h

Condition:

Lake on the right-hand side and follow the supply road downhill, across mountain pastures and then along the Zuger Tobel valley until you reach the paved toll road. Exit to the left here and go into Zug town centre and make your way back to the starting point.

• Special features: Up until the Tannegg, the tour can also be done on a racing bike or road bike • Sights: The Chluppa (stone wall) – each inhabitant of Lech Zürs am Arlberg was ”immortalised” in 2010 with a stone onto which their name and year of birth are engraved • Refreshment stops: Kriegeralpe, restaurants in Lech am Arlberg, Oberlech and Zug

Cycling tours

and then on to the left, ascending to the (7) Hochalphütte lodge. Here you can have a bite to eat before another short ascent to the (8) Saloberkopf (2,043 m). Then follow the alpine path with sweeping hairpins downhill until a wide hiking trail branches off to the left. Take this trail keeping left across marsh areas, going straight ahead at first. Alongside a stone wall, the trail continues steeply downhill for a short stretch until you reach an alpine path again.

26 All around the Karhorn A demanding tour that includes short stretches where bikes need to be pushed. From the hike starting point in front of the post office, take the main road towards Warth. Leave the town Lech am Arlberg and cycle past the (1) Bodenalpe. Soon you will see a quarry where a forest road banches off to your left. Follow it going uphill through the forest. After the wooded area, the trail continues steadily uphill across mountain pastures to (2) Bürstegg.

Here the trail becomes narrower and continues ascending through fragrant mountain pastures. The bikes now need to be pushed for a stretch across a few natural terraces. When you have reached the (3) Wannenkopf, follow the trail on the left going uphill, then downhill to the top station of the (4) Steffisalp-Express. After passing the top station, bikes need to be pushed again for a short stretch until you reach the (5) Spitziger Stein rock. Take the trail to your left here and turn right at the next signpost. Traverse a small stream and continue to the (6) Krumbacher Alpe. The trail continues in a curve around the houses

Elevation profil: All around the Karhorn Distance: 23,6 km

Altitude difference:

1006 m

1006 m Duration: 4:00 h

Cycling tour: Condition:

INSIDER’S TIP:

Cycle on, keeping left along the alpine path past the (9) Auenfeldhütte lodge and the (10) Obere Auenfeldalpe continuing downhill until you reach another alpine path at the (11) Untere Auenfeldalpe. Pass by the alp on the left-hand side, then continue gently

uphill to the (12) Auenfeld saddle. Turn right here and continue for a short stretch uphill until you reach the (13) Gaisbühelalpe. Directly at the junction near the Gaisbühelalpe, turn right onto the wide wagon road to the Weibermahr valley station until you reach a paved road at the (14) view point ”Tannegg” incl. barbecue site. Follow the road going downhill into Oberlech and turn left at the first intersection. Across pastures and forests, the street winds its way back to Lech. When you reach the main road, turn right and follow the path back to the starting point.

• Special features: From the Wannenkopf, you can enjoy a grandiose view of the Schrofen pass, Gehren and Lechleiten • Sights: The Auenfeld – once a permanent Walser settlement in an enchanting setting • Refreshment stops: Bodenalpe, Bürstegg, Hochalphütte, Auenfeldhütte, Untere Auenfeldalpe and restaurants in Oberlech and Lech am Arlberg

Cycling tours

INSIDER’S TIP:

highlights are undoubtedly the 50 metre long Anaconda north shore element, the Skinny Boardwalk and the Patrese Jump which is followed by the Double Road Gap! The trail ends right next to the valley station of the Lech-Oberlech mountain railway.

27 Burgwald Bike Trail After the ascent with the Oberlech mountain railway, the Petersbodenbahn cable car transports mountain bikers to the start of the ”Burgwald Trail” at an altitude of 1,930 metres. The trail's new easy Line starts there, with its sweeping curves leading towards the Kriegerhorn valley station. The route then passes under the path of the Petersbodenbahn.

Once in Oberlech, the ”Burgwald Trail” branches into the Burgtobel. On pleasant forest and gravel trails, the route passes along the Burgtobel in the direction of the village. In addition to banked curves and wooden berms, the north shore elements, drops and technical challenges make this part of the route correspondingly more demanding. The

Elevation profil: Burgwald Bike Trail Distance: ca. 4 km

Altitude difference: 488 m

Start: Petersboden Bergstation

Year of construction: July 2012 Finish: Talstation Bergbahn Oberlech

Petersbodenbahn Bergstation

Bergbahn Oberlech Talstation

Waldboden, Schotter, North Shore Elemente, Anliegerkurven

There is even a bike wash facility there, enabling riders to ensure their bike is clean enough for the train ride up before the next descent.

• To enjoy biking on the ”Burgwald Trail”, we recommend a freeride or enduro bike. It is possible to hire appropriately equipped bikes at the sports shop, Sportalp, with advance reservation. • Difficulty: blue, some red and black elements • Surface: forest floor, gravel, North Shore obstacles, slalom curves

Behaviour guidelines for hikes / bus network

WELCOME AND ENJOY OUR HIKING AREA!

• Never undertake a mountain tour or longer mountain hikes alone. • Before starting the tour, check the condition of the path, any hazardous points and the length of the tour. • If you have less experience with mountain hiking, join one of the guided tours offered by Lech Zürs Tourism or ask a local certificated tour or mountain guide for assistance. • Inform your host of the planned route, the tour destination and the expected time of your return and stick to these plans, for a successful emergency rescue. • When choosing your equipment always check the weather forecast. The weather can change very quickly in the mountains. Thus in addition to ankle-high hiking/walking boots with corrugated sole your gear should include a backpack with provisions, first aid kit and appropriate clothing for protection against wind and cold. It’s recommended that you bring a mobile phone for emergencies. • Don’t start too late and pass on shortcuts. For your own safety, always follow the signs and marked hiking paths. • Keep calm in event of an accident. For emergency aid call 144 for the mountain rescue or 112 for the European emergency number. If you don’t have a mobile phone or cannot get a signal, attempt to obtain help through audible signals (yelling, whistling) or visible signals (reflection, light signal, waving a large piece of clothing). • Keep the mountains clean.

Villages are not included in the Lech Card

routes j Pushchair-friendly

Legend 61

Imprint: Concept and Layout: Lech Zürs Tourism with Peter Bauer Photos: Daniel Nikolaus Kocher, Peter Mathis, Bernd Fischer, Georg Schnell, Hans Wiesenhofer, Imagination 2012 Hanno Mackowitz, Lisa Fail, Christoph Schöch, Markus Hahn und Lech Zürs Tourismus Cover Picture: Christoph Schöch Cartography: Alpenwelt Verlag GmbH Print: Buchdruckerei Lustenau, www.bulu.at The right of errors and alterations is reserved ! Use of the hiking trails is at your own risk!