Radfahren Hohenems

Cycling loop from Brunnenfeld-Stallehr through the Walgau to Galinasee and Nachbauersee

This largely flat 52-kilometre cycling loop links the Walgau with the riverside landscapes of the Ill. Almost the entire route is on tarmac, using cycle paths, quiet side roads and a few short sections on busier roads.

Along the way, villages, riverside woodland, farmland and the two renaturalised groundwater lakes Galinasee and Nachbauersee provide plenty of variety. Despite the small elevation differences, the distance requires a solid basic level of fitness and the route is particularly suitable for touring, trekking and e-bikes.

Details

Difficultyeasy
Highest point579 m
Best time of year
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Short description

This largely flat 52-kilometre cycling loop links the Walgau with the riverside landscapes of the Ill. Almost the entire route is on tarmac, using cycle paths, quiet side roads and a few short sections on busier roads.

Along the way, villages, riverside woodland, farmland and the two renaturalised groundwater lakes Galinasee and Nachbauersee provide plenty of variety. Despite the small elevation differences, the distance requires a solid basic level of fitness and the route is particularly suitable for touring, trekking and e-bikes.

Route description

The GPX loop starts directly at Brunnenfeld-Stallehr railway stop. It initially follows tarmac side roads and cycle paths towards Bludenz. Via Klarenbrunnstraße and Unterer Illrain, the route reaches the area around Bludenz railway station before continuing across the valley floor.

The route then follows cycle paths and quiet roads through the Walgau. It passes Unterfeld and continues towards Ludesch, Thüringen and Bludesch. In Thüringen, St Anna Church lies directly beside the route. The profile remains almost completely flat along this section.

Beyond Bludesch, tarmac cycle paths, side roads and farm tracks alternate. The route continues through Schlins to Satteins. Jagdberg Castle Ruins lie slightly off the route and can be included as a short detour if desired.

From Satteins, the loop continues towards the Göfis bridge over the Ill and the Felsenau area. The GPX track makes a loop through the western Walgau here before turning east again. This section is also predominantly tarmac and mostly follows cycle paths or quiet roads.

In the Galina area, the tour reaches its most distinctive natural highlights. Galinasee comes first beside the cycle path, followed by Nachbauersee. Both lakes developed from former gravel pits and were transformed into near-natural waters with riverside woodland and shoreline vegetation. They are suitable places for a quiet break.

After the lakes, the route heads towards Schlins-Beschling and then returns eastwards on the other side of the Walgau. Longer sections run close to the River Ill and through the Tschalenga Au. The route remains largely flat and mainly follows tarmac cycle paths and farm tracks.

Near Bludenz, the loop rejoins the familiar roads from the first section. Klarenbrunnstraße leads back to Brunnenfeld-Stallehr railway stop. As this is a loop, it is also possible to join at other suitable points along the route; the GPX direction described here starts in Brunnenfeld-Stallehr.

Getting there

The start and finish of the tour are at Brunnenfeld-Stallehr railway stop, directly at the GPX starting point.

By public transport

Bus stop at the start/finish: Brunnenfeld, Bludenz – city bus line 502

Train station at the start/finish: Brunnenfeld-Stallehr – S4 Montafonerbahn

The S4 connects Brunnenfeld-Stallehr with Bludenz and Schruns. The tour start is a short distance from the Brunnenfeld bus stop.

Link for journey planning: vmobil.at

By car

Take the A14/S16 to the Bludenz/Montafon exit, then follow the L188 towards Brunnenfeld/Lorüns. Brunnenfeld-Stallehr railway stop is directly beside the tour start.

Parking

Public car park at Brunnenfeld-Stallehr railway stop in Brunnenfeld. Please observe the signs and the parking regulations displayed on site.

Equipment

A roadworthy touring, trekking, fitness or e-bike is recommended. As the route is almost entirely on tarmac, it can also be ridden on a road bike.

Recommended equipment includes a cycle helmet, weather-appropriate clothing, sun and rain protection, sufficient drinks and food, a small repair kit with a spare inner tube or puncture kit, first-aid equipment and a mobile phone.

Safety information

The route is technically easy for the most part, but the total distance of around 52 kilometres should not be underestimated. Adjust your pace to your fitness, the weather and traffic conditions.

Some sections use busier roads, including Alfenzstraße, Montafoner Straße, Walgaustraße and Landstraße. Take particular care at junctions, access roads and crossings. Expect pedestrians, agricultural traffic and other cyclists on cycle paths and farm tracks.

Check the latest weather, path closures and roadworks before setting off. Tarmac surfaces can become slippery when wet or covered with leaves or dirt.

EMERGENCY CALL

140 Alpine emergencies throughout Austria

144 Ambulance and rescue services

112 European emergency number

Additional information

Landscape and culture

The loop links two contrasting sides of the Walgau. The River Ill, riverside woodland and the renaturalised former gravel pits of Galinasee and Nachbauersee are particularly distinctive. Several churches, chapels and castle ruins also lie within a short distance of the route.

Refreshments and breaks

Refreshment options are available in Bludenz and in several villages along the route. For the longer stretches beside the Ill and around the lakes, it is advisable to carry enough water and a small snack. Check opening times in advance.

Tour-Quickfacts
Difficulty
easy
Distance
51,8 km
Duration
02:00h
Ascent
140m
Descent
140m