Short Trip to Austria: Taking the Cable Car up the Pfänder

The Pfänder, at 1,064 metres, is the local mountain of the Austrian city of Bregenz. It rises on the border with Germany and forms the easternmost peak of the Allgäu Alps.

Pfänder: Alpine paradise above the rooftops of Bregenz

The Pfänder is 1,064 metres high and belongs to the Allgäu Alps. It is the easternmost mountain of this range and rises directly on Lake Constance. The Pfänder is a panoramic mountain that offers a wide view over the lake, the Swiss mountains, the Bregenz Forest and the Rhine Valley. On clear days you can see up to 240 Alpine peaks. The Bregenz local mountain offers a variety of attractions and activities for all ages. Whether you want to enjoy nature, discover culture or simply relax, the Pfänder is the right place for you. A day trip up the mountain during your holiday in a holiday apartment on Lake Constance is a welcome change during the best time of the year.

Comfortable ascent with the Pfänderbahn

The Pfänderbahn, one of the most modern cable cars in Europe, is the easiest and most comfortable way to reach the summit of the Bregenz local mountain. The cable car went into operation in 1927 and is one of the oldest cable cars in Austria. It is 2,200 metres long and covers an elevation gain of 600 metres on the way to the summit. The ride takes around six minutes and offers spectacular views of the landscape. The Pfänderbahn runs daily from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm at 15-minute intervals.

Hiking in the summit region

The summit of the Pfänder is an ideal starting point for hikes of different lengths and difficulty levels. Several marked hiking trails lead from the summit in different directions. One hike leads from the summit to the Hirschberg (1,095 m), which offers a wonderful view over Lake Constance. Alternatively, you can hike from the summit of the Pfänder to the Hochberg (1,069 m), which opens up a wide panoramic view of the Bregenz Forest. Another appealing option is a hike from the summit to the Mühlebach (700 m), which plunges down as a waterfall at the end of the trail.

Myths and legends on the “Pfänderdohle Rundweg”

The “Pfänderdohle Rundweg” is a medium-difficulty circular hiking trail that leads from the summit of the Pfänder via the Hirschbergalpe and the Pfänderdohle back to the starting point. The route is about 15 kilometres long and offers magnificent views of Lake Constance and the Alps. It passes mystical places surrounded by age-old legends. One legend tells of the “Wild Man of the Pfänder”, who is said to have lived on the mountain in the 18th century. He was believed to possess supernatural powers, such as the ability to talk to animals or influence the weather. He is said to have helped or harmed hikers depending on whether they treated him kindly or with hostility.

Another legend tells of the legendary “Pfänder Treasure”, which is said to be hidden in a cave beneath the summit. The treasure is said to consist of gold, silver and gemstones left there by the Romans when they fled from the Germanic tribes. The treasure is said to be guarded by a dragon that can breathe fire and fly. Only a person of pure heart is said to be able to obtain the treasure after solving a riddle that the dragon sets.

The wildlife park on the Pfänder

Families spending their holiday with children in a holiday apartment on Lake Constance can look forward to a very special attraction: the wildlife park on the Pfänder. The wildlife park is a small zoo that is home to various native species such as deer, mouflons, ibex, wild boar, goats and rabbits. It is open during the day all year round and admission is free. The wildlife park offers the chance to observe and feed the animals of the mountains and forests at close range.

Solstice festival – the event highlight on the Pfänder

The solstice festival is a traditional celebration held every year on the longest day of the year on the Pfänder. It is a festival of joy and gratitude for the sun and for life, and the main event highlight on the Bregenz local mountain. The solstice festival starts in the afternoon with a colourful programme of music, dancing and games for all ages. In the evening a large bonfire is lit that brightens the night. The solstice festival is a celebration of community and togetherness.

A paradise for mountain bikers

The Pfänder is a paradise for mountain bikers who are looking for a sporting challenge. Several single trails lead from the valley to the summit, and downhill routes run from the summit back into the valley. You can try some of them during your holiday in a holiday apartment on the Upper Lake. The cycle paths are mostly paved or gravelled and offer different gradients and difficulty levels. Even for fit climbing enthusiasts the routes are a real challenge. As an alternative, mountain bikers can transport their bikes with the Pfänderbahn. Bicycles are allowed on the cable car.