The Bregenz Forest is an almost untouched mountainous area located within the valleys of Ill, Lech and the Rhine valley. In the immediate vicinity of the Bregenz Forest are the territories of neighboring states: Switzerland and Germany.
Description
Despite the name, there are no continuous forests, and the gentle slopes of the Alpine mountains are covered with grassy vegetation. Perhaps the name has survived from those ancient times, when dense forests grew everywhere in this region. However, as a result of intensive economic activity, trees on the slopes of the mountains were cut down to expand the area of pastures. Only moving from Lake Constanta to Mount Arlberg can one observe rugged forests covering high peaks and steep depressions.
Varied landscapes, formed by the combination of gentle and steep slopes of the Alpine mountains, complement the numerous streams of the Bregenzer stream. Here in the cozy mountain valleys lurked small villages, in each of which to this day they sacredly honor and strictly observe the unique and inimitable traditions of their ancestors.
On the site you can read about interesting facts about Austria.
Adherence to ancient customs does not at all prevent local residents from enjoying all the benefits of civilization and promoting the development of tourism in this picturesque alpine region. A federal highway passes through the territory of the Bregenz Forest, moving along which you can easily get to any settlement in order to fully enjoy the mountain air and get acquainted with the colorful life of local residents.
Ski resort - Alberschwend
The gentle slopes, devoid of tall trees, are perfect for skiing enthusiasts and experienced skiers alike. The higher mountain ranges to the east of this area are a natural barrier to moist air masses moving from the Atlantic. Therefore, a lot of snow falls within the Bregenz Forest, which contributes to a rather long ski season in this area.
Alberschwende is considered one of the best ski resorts in this region. Thanks to a natural barrier that traps humid air masses, the ski season starts here in December and ends in late March or early April. Locals often call Alberschwende the gateway to the Bregenzer Forest, emphasizing the geographic location of this area, since it is easy to get to Germany and Switzerland from here.
The gentle wide slopes in Alberschwend, surrounded by picturesque forests, are perfect for a comfortable family vacation. Many people visit this resort not only for the opportunity to go skiing, but also in order to get acquainted with the local attractions.
Alberschwende is famous for the fact that Hermann Gmeiner, founder and first president of the world organization for the rescue of abandoned children, was born here in 1919. We can say that it was Gmeiner who came up with the concept of creating family-type orphanages, which Gmeiner originally named as SOS Children's Villages.
Attractions Bregenz
Abbey Wettingen-Mererau
Particular attention of tourists is attracted by Bregenz located 12 km from Alberschwende and its attractions, including the Abbey of Wettingen-Mererau, which is an administrative-territorial unit of the Roman Catholic Church, headed by the abbot of the Benedictine monastery. In Bregenz, you can see a thousand-year-old tree growing near the parish church or visit the ancient Mermon chapel, which was built from the 14th to the 18th century. A museum is currently functioning in this chapel.
[tp_calendar_widget origin = MOW destination = VIE responsive = true subid = ””]
Martinsturm Tower
One of the most visited sights in Bregenz is the Martinsturm tower, distinguished by its wooden dome. This tower is famous for being the symbol of Bregenz. On its upper floors there is a weapons museum. There is an observation deck at the top of the tower, from where you can enjoy an excellent view of Lake Constance and the entire city.
Seebühne lake scene
A unique attraction in Bregenz is the Seebühne Lake Scene. The Lake Stage is a floating platform that has hosted art festivals from year to year since 1946. The audience can watch the events taking place on the floating stage, sitting on the shores of Lake Constance.
Dairy Museum
In the picturesque valley of Hittisau, lovers of antiquity, having visited the museum of dairy farming, will be able to familiarize themselves with the working conditions on pastures in modern times and in antiquity. Here are old photographs, utensils for storing milk and dairy products, as well as all kinds of tools for the production of cheese and butter.
Shröken village
The attraction of the Bregenzer Forest can rightfully be the small village of Schröcken, located in the south-west of this region. The uniqueness of this small settlement is not only in the fact that only 200 people live there, but also in the church built here. The fact is that in 1876 the church was erected on the site of a dilapidated church building, and during the construction they used the architectural style in which the churches of Nazareth were built.
Bregenzer Forest Center - Egg
A great place to relax is the center of the Bregenzer-Egg forest. In addition to climbing the highest point of this area, reaching an altitude of 1800 m, you can visit the parish church of St. Nicholas built at the end of the 19th century, which was completely reconstructed at the end of the 20th century.
In the local museum you can get acquainted with the culture and life of the population of this alpine town. Egg differs from other settlements in that local women like to wear their traditional outfits not only on holidays, but also on weekdays. These extraordinary outfits cause delight and admiration for their amazing beauty among tourists and guests of the city.
Betzau
The main town of the Bregenzer Forest is Betzau. There is a cable car and a funicular, using which you can climb to the territory of an amazing garden located at an altitude of 1600 m.
Here you can read about the Lurgrotte caves, which are also located in Austria.
The Bregenzer Forest is fraught with many mysteries and unique mysterious places that tourists from all over the world seek to discover.
