The unique panoramic view of all of Lake Constance
240 alpine peaks of Austria, Germany and Switzerland make the Pfänder by Bregenz, Vorarlberg, one of the region’s most famous viewpoints.
The Pfänder, the local mountain of the people of Bregenz, offers a variety of opportunities for both locals and guests to enjoy memorable outdoor experiences. One of the major advantages is that getting there is extremely convenient. The port as well as the port train station are only seven minutes away on foot. Once one has arrived at the valley station, 600 metres in height are overcome with the Pfänderbahn mountain railway in only six minutes. At the summit at 1,064 metres in altitude, with far-reaching views of the deep-blue Lake Constance, the towns and villages along its bank and of the Austrian and Swiss mountains, it is easy to take a deep breath. A trip to the Pfänder is simply always worth it.
Whether with friends or alone, whether via the “G’schlief”, the Fluh rockface or the Haggen, a regular hike on the Pfänder is a must for many residents of Bregenz. Those who like sporty ascents that drive the pulse upwards also find the right terrain here. Likewise walkers who want to use the mountain station of the Pfänderbahn as a starting point for an extended trip with easy ascents and descents. On the cheese trail, hikers receive interesting information about the production of Vorarlberg cheese. Tip: firm footwear is essential on all routes and please make sure to follow the markers.
On a half-hour round hike through the wildlife park, visitors get to know a few inhabitants of the Alps up close, starting with dwarf goats, hares and pot-bellied pigs, followed by ibexes and wild boar as well as mouflons and red deer.
Sporty bikers are stimulated by the challenge of demonstrating their condition and scaling the Pfänder summit. Leisure cyclists gladly use the Pfänderbahn service, which transports their bicycle – even doing so for free between 8am and 10am. Stimulating routes into the Allgäu or into the Lower Bregenz Forest begin at the mountain station. From the bicycle saddle, the unique panorama can be enjoyed from completely new perspectives.
When the trip is coming towards its end or a snack is needed, it is time for a hearty piece of nature – on a plate: a warming soup, tangy mountain cheese or a proper piece of meat. There are a few opportunities for stopping for something to eat around the Pfänder.