A self-guided hike from Lake Constance to Damüls (Damuels) through the Bregenzerwald, visiting Bregenz, Lingenau, Schwarzenberg, Bezau, Schönenbach, and Mellau.

Green pastures and little mountains

This walk aims to provide a true Austrian experience, but for ordinary walkers rather than the super-fit. The region known as Bregenzerwald is a landscape of meadows, woods and charming villages, some, like famous Schwarzenberg, almost impossibly rich in traditional architecture. Starting by the shores of (normally) placid Lake Constance at Bregenz, it leads quickly into the “Mittelgebirge” or foothills, a countryside of peaceful flower-decked meadows and age-old farming. Judicious use of cable cars (free to our clients) enables not only the exploration of remoter valleys without arduous climbs, but also the final ascent to the “Hochgebirge” of the Damüls bowl, with its 2000m+ peaks for you to bag on your last day (if you wish - it's your choice) and its breathtaking views. Throughout the walk you will be hosted mainly in authentic family-run inns, and eat traditional, hearty, locally-produced food. Note: Weather conditions may close cable lifts etc and force changes to the itinerary. Walked by On Foot staff: Simon and Debbie

Standard option (as per "itinerary"): 7 nights - but you can add rest days in any hotel, or  extra days in Damüls to do more high walking. Suggested shorter alternatives:  6 nights (miss night 1, and start at Lingenau); 5 nights (miss nights 1 and 4 and 2 days’ walking)