Europatreppe 4000 (including the return trip via Bofa to Partenen)

With about 3,600 irregular steps, a gradient of up to 86 percent, and a piece of Montafon power plant history, the Europatreppe 4000 in Partenen is an extraordinary challenge.
Note: The Europatreppe is open annually from June 1 through October 31.

Originally built as a supply route for the construction of the large reservoirs in the Silvretta, the Europatreppe 4000 now climbs steeply uphill alongside the Vermunt Railway. When preliminary work on the Vermunt power plant began in 1925, there was neither electricity nor a telephone in Partenen—making the staircase an impressive testament to that era, when the Alpine energy industry was built under extremely challenging conditions. Each step varies in height and depth, which is why, in addition to physical fitness, coordination, concentration, and sure-footedness are especially important. Those who reach the top have not only mastered a physical challenge but have also gained a unique insight into the valley’s history.

Every September, ambitious runners compete on the Europatreppe in the Montafon Stair Cup. The record time is around 22 minutes—but for most participants, it’s not the stopwatch that matters, but their own pace and reaching the finish safely. You can find information about the event at scspartenen.at.And you’re definitely encouraged to show off your achievement: Once you’ve conquered the Europatreppe 4000, you’ll receive a certificate at the Gaschurn Tourist Information Office. To get it, take a photo at the top of the stairs as proof and show it to the staff there.

Author: Array