The Üble Schlucht – a unique natural idyll

Anyone who embarks on a hike into the Üble Schlucht will soon understand why it has been designated a geological monument of Vorarlberg. The natural diversity between its rugged limestone cliffs is both astonishing and fascinating. The gorge reveals itself as a true natural idyll, made even more rare by its unspoiled nature. With its mosaic of diverse habitats, the Üble Schlucht has been declared a Natura 2000 site, making it part of the largest nature conservation network in the world.

On this approximately three-hour circular hike, the name says it all: The Üble Schlucht was once considered difficult to cross, and even though well-secured paths and bridges now make the walk easier, surefootedness is highly recommended.

The starting and ending points are in the village of Laterns-Thal, which can be reached by public transport (stop: Laterns Gasthaus Löwen) or by car (Balfenplatz parking lot). The signposted hiking trail initially leads down the valley from the village center to the mountain river Frutz. In the direction of the river, the landscape-defining power of the water accompanies visitors through a breathtaking natural area shaped over millennia. Through the alternation of hard and soft rocks, the Frutz River created a unique gorge character, which today serves as a habitat for rare bird species such as the dipper and tree species such as the yew. The crystal-clear waters are particularly good for admiring the typical river pools, eroded over time by the thrust of the water.

After crossing the bridge, the path leads up a short steep section to the other side of the valley from Laterns. Turning left at the signpost there, the path continues upstream through a species-rich gorge forest, which boasts a small waterfall. After the subsequent descent back to the Frutz riverbed, you can cross the fascinating river landscape once more before the final ascent to the starting point. The sunny side of the Laterns Valley provides a worthy conclusion: the slope offers a welcome refuge for protected plants such as the field maple and is lined with species-rich meadows towards the end.

Important information: The hiking trail through the Üble Gorge is closed during the winter months. Information is available from the municipalities of Rankweil and Laterns.