Bregenzerwald

Do you enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the countryside and discovering new things? The Bregenzerwald is well known for its creative ideas, strong traditions and independent way of life.

The region is home to 23 charming villages southeast of Lake Constance. For generations, local people have taken great care in shaping their villages and the surrounding farming landscape. Traditional wooden houses stand alongside modern architecture, creating an interesting mix of old and new. There is also plenty to discover when it comes to culture, outdoor activities and local food. Visitors can look forward to welcoming hosts, excellent restaurants and comfortable accommodation.

Creative architecture and craftsmanship
Why are there so many modern buildings in the Bregenzerwald? And what makes local craftspeople so creative? The 12 “Umgang Bregenzerwald” village walks offer interesting answers. They take visitors through the villages and show how architecture, craftsmanship and everyday life are connected.

The Werkraum Haus in Andelsbuch is another place worth visiting. Designed by the famous Swiss architect Peter Zumthor, it presents the work and ideas of local craftspeople and designers.

Culture to discover
Every June and August/September, famous singers and chamber music groups from around the world perform at the Schubertiade festival in the beautiful village of Schwarzenberg. In early September, FAQ Bregenzerwald brings people together for inspiring talks, music, good food and a relaxed festival atmosphere. The Women’s Museum in Hittisau and the Angelika Kauffmann Museum in Schwarzenberg present changing exhibitions. At the Juppenwerkstatt in Riefensberg, visitors can see how the traditional Bregenzerwald women’s costume, called the Juppe, is made by hand. Other museums also tell interesting stories about the region. These include the FIS Ski Museum in Damüls, the Bezau Museum and the Museum of Baroque Master Builders in Au.

Enjoying nature and outdoor activities
Summer is a great time to combine cultural experiences with hiking or mountain biking. Guests staying three nights or more between May and October receive the Guest Card Bregenzerwald & Großes Walsertal free of charge. It includes free rides on participating cable cars and buses, as well as free entry to outdoor swimming pools.

In winter, the Bregenzerwald is a wonderful place for snow activities. Several ski areas offer slopes for all levels, from beginners and families to experienced skiers. The 3Täler Skipass is valid in the participating ski areas and on ski buses. There are also plenty of ways to enjoy winter away from the ski slopes, including cross-country skiing, tobogganing, winter hiking and snowshoeing.

Delicious food from the region
Many restaurants use products from the region whenever possible, including the famous Bregenzerwald mountain and Alp cheeses, meat, vegetables and herbs. Local chefs enjoy combining traditional recipes with new ideas. This is especially true in the region’s award-winning restaurants. A special way to enjoy both food and nature is Culinary Hiking. On these day trips, visitors walk from one restaurant to the next, enjoying a different course of a meal at each stop. Culinary Hiking is available in both summer and winter.