The best gravel rides around Schwarzach

The dam at Staufensee forms the northern end of the lake and is a striking structure on the hike through the Rappenloch Gorge. Directly below the dam, the water plunges as an artificial waterfall into the Dornbirner Ach, creating an impressive natural spectacle. The reservoir itself was almost empty, which could be due to the construction workers at the new hydroelectric power plant, at the entrance to the Apploch Gorge.

Right next to/under the motorway, and next to that the canalized river. There are definitely nicer cycle paths.

The water of the Bregenzerwald originates in the mountains and flows through the heart of Dornbirn in gentle steps.

The Red House, a true landmark of the city of Dornbirn! Proudly situated amidst Dornbirn's picturesque scenery, our Red House is not only a striking building, but also a place where history, culture, and hospitality blend harmoniously. The Red House invites you to immerse yourself in its historic walls and experience the unique atmosphere of this significant place. Whether you embark on a culinary discovery in our restaurant or simply admire the unique architecture, the Red House Dornbirn warmly welcomes you to explore a rich connection between past and present. Immerse yourself in a world where tradition meets modernity, and where the Red House is more than just a building—it is a symbol of identity and pride for Dornbirn. 1639 - Construction of the Red House In 1639, the couple Michael Danner and Verena Rhomberg built the "Red House" on the site of the rectory, which had burned down in 1570. It is a fine example of the timber construction that was once prevalent in this area. Notable features include the four-part window groups, the painted, retractable shutters, and the tendril-decorated underside of the eaves. The red color comes from the protective coating of ox blood and ox gall, common in the 18th century. The Red House around 1900; Original: Horst Günther Maier, Reproduction: StAD, Sign. 40306, Photograph: Victor Hämmerle Text / Source: Red House, Restaurant on the Market Square, Marktplatz 13, Dornbirn https://www.roteshaus.at/

Feurstein House, Dornbirn The Feurstein House was built in 1611 on the site of a medieval predecessor and expanded in the 18th century. Until the 19th century, it housed the "Adler" inn. The house was named after the merchant Raimund Feurstein (1835-1900). During renovations in 1897, the Neo-Renaissance decorative paintings were added, giving the building its current appearance. The pitched roofs, designed to protect the windows, lend the house a bourgeois character. Text / Source: Dornbirn City Archives https://stadtarchiv.dornbirn.at/stadtspaziergaenge/infotafeln-hausgeschichten/feurstein-haus

St. Martin's Parish Church, Dornbirn The current church represents at least the fifth building on this site. St. Martin's Church was first mentioned in 1130. Only the freestanding bell tower remains from the Gothic church built in 1453. A new church was constructed in the Rococo style between 1751 and 1753. The tower was heightened to 64 meters in 1767. The hall-like, single-nave church is the largest church in Vorarlberg. Interior dimensions: 65 meters long, 30 meters wide, 14.5 meters high. Height of the exterior columns: 13 meters. The current church was built in 1839/40 under Pastor Schweinberger. The plans were provided by State Architect Martin von Kink. From 1967 to 1969, the church was redesigned by architect Emil Steffann from Bad Godesberg to meet contemporary liturgical needs. The church is the mother and main church of the city. Since the city was divided into six districts, this core area has also been called the first district. The church is particularly noteworthy due to its location in a picturesque square with various old and new houses, a fountain, and five streets radiating from it. Until late in the 19th century, the parish of St. Martin encompassed the entire area of the city of Dornbirn. Text / Source: Dornbirn Market Parish, Dornbirn https://www.pfarre-st-martin.at/

A very pristine, wild valley! It's definitely worth choosing this route.

Great end point for the hike with delicious refreshments