Nature tips Vorarlberg
The water state
With 4,700 flowing waterways spanning a total length of over 5,000 km and Lake Constance as the third-largest inland body of water in Europe, Vorarlberg is truly a state shaped by water.
Despite the relatively small size of the Federal State, there are large differences in precipitation from north to south. Regions on the northern side of mountain ranges experience heavy rainfall exceeding 2,000 mm per year, while the drier regions in the south receive only about 1,000 mm annually. Yet, all of Vorarlberg is rich in water, crisscrossed by rivers that are vital not only for humans, but also for thousands of animal and plant species living in and around these waters.
Lake Constance, with its diverse structures, provides habitats for numerous species, some of which are unique in Europe. Lake Constance and the Rhine river delta are important migratory corridors and offer breeding and wintering grounds for over 300 different bird species. Tens of thousands of waterfowl spend the winter here before heading north to Scandinavia or even as far as Siberia in the spring.
Since 1942, the Rhine river delta at Lake Constance has been a protected natural area and is now recognised as a Natura 2000 area, making it one of the most significant conservation sites in Europe. The lake shores, reed belts, alluvial forests, and litter meadows provide a habitat for over 600 different species of ferns and flowering plants. The Rhine river delta is also home to rare orchids, carnivorous plants, grasshoppers, dragonflies, and nearly 700 species of butterflies. Unique to this area is the Lake Constance Forget-Me-Not, which can only be found here. Its vibrant blue flowers can be admired along the Mehrerau lakeshore of Lake Constance in May. In addition to Lake Constance, Vorarlberg’s rivers, streams, numerous lakes, and many moors serve as vital aquatic habitats. Protecting and preserving these special environments is essential so that animals, plants, and humans alike can continue to benefit from these unique ecosystems.
