Alpenregion Vorarlberg

Surrounding the alpine town of Bludenz are three valleys, each with its own distinct character: Brandnertal, Klostertal and the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Großes Walsertal. Although very different, they are all just a short distance apart. With the town, villages and mountains so close together, there is plenty to discover: shared outdoor experiences and biking adventures in Brandnertal, urban charm and culture in Bludenz, water and dramatic mountain scenery in Klostertal, and traditional alpine farming, regional specialities and opportunities to slow down in Großes Walsertal.

TIP: With the guest cards for Brandnertal, Bludenz and Klostertal, you can travel free of charge on buses and trains throughout Vorarlberg all year round. In Großes Walsertal, this benefit is available during the summer season. The ‘Clara’ and ‘Der Walser’ web apps give you easy access to your guest card and useful holiday information on your smartphone.

Town and mountains side by side: Bludenz
Bludenz lies at the meeting point of five valleys. Its historic old town, with charming arcades, small shops, cafés, restaurants and regular markets, invites visitors to wander and explore. And the mountains are never far away. The valley station of the Muttersberg cable car is located just above the town. At the top, scenic hiking trails await, including the Alpine Art Muttersberg trail, where art and nature come together.

This makes Bludenz an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region. In summer, hiking and biking routes lead into Brandnertal, Klostertal, Großes Walsertal, Montafon and Walgau. Those looking for a multi-day biking adventure can set off on the Five Valleys Mountain Bike Star Tour, exploring a different valley each day before returning to Bludenz in the evening. In winter, several ski areas are within easy reach, making it possible to discover new slopes each day without changing accommodation.

After an active day in the mountains, the town is a welcoming place to return to. The indoor pool and sauna at Val Blu offer a chance to unwind, followed perhaps by a stroll through the old town or a relaxed evening at a local restaurant. Bludenz brings together alpine adventures and the welcoming atmosphere of a small town.

Exploring Brandnertal together
In Brandnertal, spending time together is part of the experience. The local word ‘Zemma’, meaning ‘together’, captures this spirit. It’s about sharing moments, enjoying the outdoors and making memories. Between the villages of Brand, Bürserberg and Bürs, a surprising variety of landscapes lies close together, from the valley floor and sunny mountain plateaus to the high alpine peaks.

Families can explore themed trails through forests and mountains, while hikers enjoy the scenery around Lake Lünersee or the Tschengla plateau. Mountain bikers can choose between leisurely rides and challenging trails. In winter, ski slopes, winter hiking paths and toboggan runs are all within easy reach. With so much nearby, different activities can easily be combined in a single day.

This variety is what makes Brandnertal special: a wide range of experiences within a relatively small area and plenty of opportunities to enjoy them together. Often, it’s not just the mountain peaks or kilometres covered that stay in your memory, but the moments shared along the way. A break at an alpine pasture, time spent in the mountains or a relaxed evening back in the village.

Water and mountains in Klostertal
Stretching from Bludenz towards the Arlberg, Klostertal is surrounded by impressive alpine scenery. Steep mountainsides, the Lechquellen Mountains and the Verwall range shape the landscape, with water a constant presence. The Alfenz river flows through the valley, streams tumble down from side valleys, and waterfalls and mountain lakes can be discovered along many routes.

Hiking is one of the best ways to experience this close connection between water and mountains. Trails follow the Alfenz, lead to waterfalls or climb towards mountain lakes and panoramic viewpoints. Sometimes the water is wild and powerful, while elsewhere it offers a peaceful place to stop, cool off or enjoy a refreshing Kneipp experience. Families will also find plenty of opportunities to discover water in a playful way, whether on Sonnenkopf mountain or at selected spots throughout the valley.

Klostertal also offers a wide range of mountain activities. In summer, hiking and biking routes lead from the valley floor into high alpine terrain. In winter, Sonnenkopf and the nearby Arlberg offer plenty of opportunities for days in the snow. What makes this narrow alpine valley so distinctive is the close connection between flowing water, mountain scenery and the surrounding landscape.

Take your time in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Großes Walsertal
Großes Walsertal has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2000. At its heart is a cultural landscape where nature is not only protected, but has also been shaped, farmed and cared for over generations. Mountain farming, alpine pastures, forests and small villages are all part of the valley’s character, as are the people who live and work here.

For visitors, this offers a chance to experience the region and its everyday life more closely. Whether hiking, joining a guided nature or cultural experience, or visiting a traditional alpine dairy, there are many ways to discover the close relationship between the landscape, local farming and the way of life. Rather than simply admiring the scenery, visitors are invited to explore, observe and develop a deeper appreciation of their surroundings.

The local cuisine reflects these traditions, too. Walserstolz mountain cheese, products from local farms and the valley’s long-established alpine farming culture reveal how closely food is connected to its place of origin. A holiday in Großes Walsertal is less about filling every day with activities and more about taking your time, meeting local people and getting to know the region one experience at a time.