Category Archives: Vorarlberg

Ski Touring in the Silvretta, Austria, 2-2013

By | | , , , ,
Leave a comment


Bielerhöhe (2037m) is a mountain pass that connects the Austrian states of Vorarlberg and Tyrol near the Swiss border. It is located at the end of the Montafon valley, which was one of Hemingway’s favorite hangouts. It plays a big role in hydroelectric energy production, there are several dammed up lakes in the vicinity, all produce electricity. The highest peak of Vorarlberg, the Piz Buin (3312m), is very close and a favorite destination for mountain climbers. In the summer a winding road leads up to the pass but in the winter it is only reachable by cable car and shuttle bus. It is a very “James Bond like” experience to be shuttled through narrow tunnels and come out to a breathtaking mountain scenery in a picturesque Alpine setting. Two hotels at the pass provide the means for many to enjoy one of Vorarlberg’s great pastimes, ski touring.

Bielerhöhe
Back to home

Bödele, Austria 11-2013

By | | , , , ,
Leave a comment


Bödele-Schwarzenberg (700-1,460m) is a small ski area complete with nostalgic alpine ski huts in the Vorarlberg state of Austria. It’s a wonderful place for a day’s ski excursion for both downhill, cross country skiing, ski touring, or snowshoeing. Its location is at the beginning of the charming Bregenzerwald Valley which is world famous for its award winning alpine cheese, characteristic wooden farm houses, distinctive dialect, and strong cultural farming traditions. Its setting is nothing short of breathtaking. The resort looks down into the Rhine Valley and one can view the Swiss, German, and Austrian lands that lay below. The alpine village of Schwarzenberg is located not too far from the ski area. It is famous for its cheese and schnaps festival. But its real claim to fame is its long autumn tradition of the farmers in full regional dress bringing down their cow herds from the cheese making alm huts and parading them through the old streets. The cows are brightly adorned with bells and flower wreaths and the cow that has given the most milk during the summer is especially decorated and is given much applause by the appreciative tourists that line the streets. This cultural tradition is representative of the Austrian mountain life and a highlight for any tourist. In addition, the city of Dornbirn with its numerous cultural offerings can be found within a short drive from the mountain as well.

 

Back to home

Hochhäderich, Austria 12-2013

By | | , , , ,
Leave a comment


Hochhäderich(1,250-1,600m) is a small ski resort set in the lovely valley of the Bregenzerwald in Vorarlberg, Austria. The charming area has many options for winter and summer activities such as downhill skiing, sledding, horse sleighing, snowshoeing, walking, and hiking, The well groomed cross country trails traverse a distinct upland moor biosphere that includes plant species unique to this alpine environment. The landscape is dotted with rustic ski huts that serve up hearty mountain fare and warm Glühwein. The area is located near the lovely village of Hittisau that is known for its fine traditional wooden architecture, award winning cheese, and its distinctive Almwirtschaft which are the huts where they make the cheese in the summer months. The area is a great place to explore and enjoy the alpine lifestyle.

 

Back to home