LOCATION

Location

Grosses Walsertal, Vorarlberg

‘Grosses Walsertal’ (pronounced ‘Valsertal’) is the valley in which the tour is primarily based.

It lies in the heart of the province of ‘Vorarlberg’ by Lake Constance, in the western Alps of Austria (only one hour from the international borders of Switzerland, Germany and the Principality of Liechtenstein).

It is an area of stunning and diverse natural beauty, is rich in alpine traditions and culture, is

a model of environmental sustainability, and for visitors – is a hidden treasure off the normal tourist trail.

A 'UNESCO Biosphere Reserve'

In 2000, UNESCO recognised the ‘Grosses Walsertal’ as a Biosphere Reserve due to its unique balance of people living in harmony with nature.

UNESCO stated that the region “offered one of the clearest examples of the traditional respect for nature throughout rural Austria”. The people were also cited as playing a major part in maintaining the stunning landscape.

A highly developed system of mountain farming, dairy farming and extensive forestry has been in place since the 13th century, and is still going strong today.

A 'European Destination of ExcelleNce'

In 2009, Grosses Walsertal won the European Destination of ExcelleNce (EDEN) award. The honour is given to destinations that are committed to social, cultural and environmental sustainability.

Take a moment to watch this video to get a feel for what makes the Grosses Walsertal region so special, and why it has received the certification as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve as well as a European Destination of Excellence.

The Local ‘Walser’ People

The ‘Walser’ people who settled this valley arrived in the 1300’s from the region of ‘Wallis’ in Switzerland.

They were equipped with the knowledge and skills required to inhabit the harsh conditions of the high alps, and to this day, their wisdom, culture and traditions still respect and work with the mountains to create a sustainable future.

Home for an Authentic Austrian Alpine Experience

Due to the Walser people’s respect and commitment to the preservation of their culture, as well as the respect for their natural environment, the Grosses Walsertal valley is a perfect place for visitors wishing to experience authentic alpine living and a pristine alpine environment.

It is with great fortune that Patrick was born and raised in this valley and, along with his family and team of other passionate locals, can provide inside access for guests to witness and experience the jewels and true essence of this special region.

Getting To Our Alpine Paradise

Our Tour Home is in the alpine village of Faschina, HOWEVER each tour starts and finishes in the larger and enchanting medieval town of Feldkirch.

Feldkirch is in Austria but lies very close to the Swiss and Liechtenstein borders and is well connected by train to two major international airports: Zurich (~2hrs) and Munich (~3hrs).

Guests are encouraged to spend at least one night in Feldkirch prior to the tour to acclimatise and settle so that they are fit and ready for Day 1 of their tour experience. Accommodation recommendations and pick up/drop off details are provided upon booking.