The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Lustenau

There are over 40 family-friendly hiking trails around Lustenau, with the vast majority (39 out of 44) classified as easy, making them perfect for families with children of all ages. You'll find a diverse range of options, from gentle river walks to trails exploring nature parks.

Lustenau offers a unique blend of landscapes. You can explore the serene Rhine River and its floodplains (Rheinauen), featuring easy walks along the 'Old Rhine' with picturesque views. The region also includes Natura2000 protected areas like Schweizer- and Lauteracher Ried, known for their rich biodiversity. For those seeking a bit more elevation, the foothills of the Vorarlberg Alps are easily accessible, offering trails through forests and alpine meadows.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in Lustenau are circular, providing convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Old Rhine at Diepoldsau – Alter Rhein Nature Park loop is a great option for a pleasant circular walk along the river.

Spring and autumn are particularly recommended for family hiking in Lustenau. During these seasons, temperatures are mild, and the landscape is vibrant with colors, creating ideal conditions for exploration. While summer is also popular, these shoulder seasons offer a more comfortable experience.

For toddlers and very young children, look for the shortest and flattest routes. The trails along the Old Rhine are generally very gentle. The Dam border crossing – Alter Rhein Nature Park loop is a shorter option at just under 3 km, perfect for little legs. The Rheinauen also feature an adventure playground, adding to the fun for families.

Many trails in the Lustenau region are dog-friendly, especially the wider paths along the Rhine and through the nature parks. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in protected areas like the Natura2000 sites, to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

Yes, there are several points of interest. Along the Old Rhine, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the floodplains. For a broader experience, consider visiting nearby historical sites like the Alt-Ems Castle Ruins or the Deuringschlössle. While not directly on every family trail, these offer interesting excursions nearby.

While specific cafes might not be directly on every trail, the region offers various huts and inns. For example, the Emser Hut and Alpe Kobel are options in the broader area for refreshments. Many trails also feature benches and picnic spots, especially in the nature parks.

Lustenau has good public transport connections, and many trailheads, especially those closer to the town center or along the Rhine, are accessible by bus. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for specific routes to plan your journey without a car.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 230 ratings. Reviewers often praise the easy accessibility of the trails, the beautiful and varied landscapes from river floodplains to mountain foothills, and the well-maintained paths that make them ideal for families with children.

While many trails along the Old Rhine offer pleasant views of the river and surrounding nature, for truly spectacular panoramic views, you might consider a trip to the Pfänder Mountain ridge. Although a bit further afield, it rewards hikers with vistas across the border triangle of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Within Lustenau itself, the open landscapes of the Ried areas provide expansive views of the natural environment.

Parking is generally available near popular trailheads, especially for routes along the Old Rhine and in the nature parks. For example, the Schuttannen Parking and Trailhead is a known starting point for some routes. Look for designated parking areas at the beginning of the trails or near recreational facilities.