Attractions and Places To See in Soren, Gleggen-Köblern, Schweizer Ried Und Birken-Schwarzes Zeug - Top 7

The region is primarily a European protected area (Natura 2000 site) known for its expansive moorland and traditional wet meadows, called "Streuwiesen." These areas are vital habitats for numerous rare plant and animal species, including ground-nesting birds. You can also find the Dornbirner Ach river with its meandering sections within the "Birken – Schwarzes Zeug – Mäander der Dornbirnerach" nature reserve.

Yes, you can visit the Senderbrücke Covered Bridge, a very photogenic old wooden bridge built in 1915/1916. It crosses the Dornbirner Ach and is now reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, offering a glimpse into the region's past.

The region is ideal for nature observation, hiking, and cycling. You can explore the landscape on designated paths. For specific routes, check out the hiking guide or the gravel biking guide for the area.

Absolutely. The Bench by the Ried pond is an idyllic viewpoint located by an artificially created body of water, known for potential amphibian sightings. Another spot is the Cross at Auer Ried, which offers a peaceful resting place within the Schweizer Ried.

The region is beautiful year-round, but for observing the unique flora and fauna, spring and summer are particularly rewarding. Keep in mind that entering the wet meadows is prohibited from March 15th until after they are mown, especially in Gleggen-Köblern, to protect ground-nesting birds.

The natural environment itself is family-friendly, offering opportunities for easy walks and nature observation on designated paths. Highlights like the Auer Ried Information provide educational boards about the area's history and ecology, which can be engaging for families.

As a protected area, several rules are in place: entering wet meadows is prohibited from March 15th until after mowing; cycling and horseback riding are only allowed on designated paths; dogs must be kept on a leash; flying devices (drones, paragliders) are not allowed below 300 meters; camping and bivouacking are prohibited; and picking flowers or littering is forbidden. These rules help preserve the delicate ecosystem.

Yes, dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. This is crucial to prevent disturbing ground-nesting birds and other wild animals that inhabit this important biodiversity hotspot.

Yes, the Auer Ried Information natural monument features informative boards about the Auer Ried (also known as Schweizer Ried), detailing its history and ecological significance. This is a great spot to learn more about the unique environment.

The protected area spans parts of the municipalities of Dornbirn, Lauterach, Lustenau, and Wolfurt. While specific public transport stops within the core protected area are limited due to its natural character, you can reach the surrounding towns by bus or train and then access the designated paths on foot or by bike.

Yes, many of the paths within the moorland landscape are relatively flat and easy, making them suitable for leisurely walks. For example, the "Cross at Auer Ried – Bench by the Ried pond loop" is an easy 5 km hike, and the "Auer Ried Information – Bench by the Ried pond loop" is an easy 5.9 km walk, both starting from Soren, Gleggen-Köblern, Schweizer Ried und Birken-Schwarzes Zeug. You can find more options in the hiking guide.

While specific parking areas within the protected core are limited to maintain its natural state, parking is generally available in the surrounding municipalities of Dornbirn, Lauterach, Lustenau, and Wolfurt, from where you can access the designated trails and attractions.