Kesselschwand round
Tour description
From the church in Riezlern along the main street towards Unterwestegg (approx. 1 km), turn left over the Schwendebrücke, past Hotel Bellevue turn left through the Innerschwende over Kesselschwand to the natural bridge, cross the natural bridge, past the paddling pool to the Egg district, turn right to the Breitach bridge, turn left there, along the main street back to the starting point at the church in Riezlern.
Riezlern
Riezlern
Route description
70% asphalt, 30% gravel path
Recommended equipment
EMERGENCY CALL: 140 Alpine emergencies Austria-wide 144 Alpine emergencies Vorarlberg 112 European emergency number (works with any phone/network) www.vorarlberg.travel/safety-tips
Hiking trails, huts, and sights can also be found on the Nature Experience map, which can be purchased at the tourist office in Hirschegg.
Further info & links
Further links
How do you consciously experience nature?
Nature is much more than a backdrop for unforgettable mountain experiences. It is a habitat for animals and plants. It provides drinking water and supplies us with high-quality food. Not only does it deliver valuable raw materials, but it also protects against avalanches and mudslides and regulates the climate. It is in our hands to support nature in all it does for us. One thing is certain: together we can achieve more:
Respectful in NATURE – CONSCIOUSLY with each other – thoughtfully EXPERIENCE
Respectful in NATURE
Take a deep breath and recharge, be outside and feel free. When we enjoy nature, we are guests in the living room of shy animals and rare plants. If you behave respectfully, they will happily share their habitat with you in the future.
Stay on paths and marked routes
If you follow designated paths and routes, you will surely discover new favorite places. This also respects protected areas, as many animals and plants need special protection. Especially in winter, every disturbance unnecessarily costs wild animals energy they need to survive.
Avoid dawn and night hours
Morning and evening hours are when most wildlife are searching for food. If disturbed, they become stressed, which can be life-threatening for them especially in winter. If unavoidable, please stay on the marked path, do not use a bright headlamp, and keep calm.
Keep clean & take your rubbish with you
It goes without saying: take your rubbish with you, in the mountains and in the valley. Also biological waste, because decomposition is much slower at altitude. You can properly dispose of waste at home or your accommodation – please remember, there are no public rubbish bins in Kleinwalsertal.
Using the natural toilet
If you need a quiet spot, please stay at least 50 m away from water bodies. Bury excrement or cover it with a large stone. Use leaves or recycled toilet paper and take the paper back with you in a rubbish bag.
With your dog on the route
Do you always have your four-legged partner under control, even if it catches the scent of marmots, deer, or other wildlife? If the dog follows its hunting instinct, the wild animals’ only option is to flee. You are both on the safe side with the dog on a leash. Near grazing animals keep dogs on a short leash. If an attack by grazing animals seems likely: immediately unleash. There are many dog stations in the valley to dispose of dog waste bags. Farmers and mountain herders thank you because feces on meadows and fields contaminate feed and cause illness in grazing animals.
CONSCIOUSLY with each other
Be considerate of others
Everyone loves enjoying a special spot for themselves. But usually, we are not alone. No problem, there is enough space. Give time, make way when meeting others, help if someone needs assistance, and always give a smile. So nothing stands in the way of friendly interaction and relaxed enjoyment of nature.
Appreciate cultural landscapes
Alpine landscapes captivate through their contrasts: impressive peaks and natural forests alternate with gentle valleys, well-maintained meadows, and pastures. This charming landscape at three altitudes in Kleinwalsertal is no coincidence but the result of a mix of nature and cultural landscape. Behind it is the work of farmers, alpine and forestry management, and hunters. Their work ensures the attractiveness of the recreation and leisure area and preserves biodiversity. We already say thank you when we stay on marked paths and enjoy regional products.
Experience thoughtfully
Safe on the route – for you and others
Whether in winter on a ski or snowshoe tour or in summer on a mountain tour, anyone in alpine terrain needs to prepare well. This includes careful information and route planning as well as the right equipment. Assessing alpine hazards correctly requires a lot of knowledge and experience. Why not learn from professionals and go on a tour with one of the experienced guides?
Nature Experience Map, scale 1:12,000; Kleinwalsertal route map (with hiking guide), scale 1:25,000; DAV hiking map, scale 1:25,000; these maps are available for purchase at Walserhaus Hirschegg.