Green Island – Cycling Through Wetlands and Riverside Landscapes from Hard

This circular ride of just under 29 kilometres starts at the Rhine bridge between Hard and Fußach and explores the open wetlands of the northern Rhine Valley. Wet meadows, waterways and natural floodplain woodland create a varied journey with hardly any climbing.

Highlights include Lake Jannersee in the Lauteracher Ried, the protected landscapes around the Dornbirner Ache and the wetlands of Gsieg and Obere Mähder. The route then reveals another watery landscape along the Old Rhine. Its flat profile makes this an appealing ride for leisure cyclists who enjoy combining gentle exercise with time in nature.

The circular cycle tour starts at the Rhine bridge between Hard and Fußach. From here, the route leads into the Harder Ried wetlands. Even in the first few kilometres, the landscape is characterised by open meadows, agricultural land and water-rich lowlands. The flat terrain offers sweeping views across the Rhine Valley.

One of the first highlights is Lake Jannersee in the Lauteracher Ried Landscape Protection Area. Once a gravel extraction lake, it is now a popular spot for swimming and relaxing. Grassy areas, trees and the tranquil waters provide an attractive contrast to the extensive wetlands surrounding the lake.

Passing the Ried sports facilities, the tour continues towards the Dornbirner Ried wetlands. This area is home to the Birken – Schwarzes Zeug – Mäander der Dornbirnerach nature reserve. The Dornbirner Ache river winds through a landscape of marshes, wet meadows, woodland and drainage channels. The protected area provides a habitat for numerous plant and bird species. The natural surroundings are best enjoyed from a respectful distance, without leaving the designated paths.

Around Dornbirn Süd, the route briefly leaves the peaceful wetlands and passes through an area with more traffic. The landscape then opens up again towards Lustenau. Before reaching Lustenau, the route passes through the Gsieg and Obere Mähder Natura 2000 sites. Their extensive traditionally managed wet meadows and fen habitats are among the Rhine Valley's most valuable wetland ecosystems. These sections are particularly rewarding when explored at a leisurely pace, allowing you to appreciate the subtle differences between drier meadows, damp hollows and small watercourses.

The tour then reaches the recreational area along the Old Rhine, passing the tennis and volleyball courts and the Gasthaus am Rohr restaurant. Floodplain forests and peaceful stretches of water accompany the ride along the former course of the Rhine. On the return journey, the route follows the Rhine downstream to the Hard–Fußach bridge, where the circular tour comes to an end. It is also possible to join the route at other suitable points along the way.

The tour starts and finishes at the Rhine bridge between Hard and Fußach.

By public transport

Bus stop at the start/finish: Fußach Altes Postamt; from here, cycle through the village to the Rhine bridge.

Train station at the start/finish: Hard-Fußach station; the Rhine bridge is not immediately next to the station but can be reached by bicycle.

You can travel by rail to Hard-Fußach station, for example, or take a regional bus serving Fußach Altes Postamt. Check connections and bicycle carriage arrangements before setting off.

Journey planner: vmobil.at

By car

From Bregenz, follow the L202 through Hard towards the Hard–Fußach Rhine bridge; from Höchst, approach via Fußach. To reach the parking area mentioned below, follow the signposted access on the Hard side of the Rhine towards Schleienloch.

Parking

The recommended option is Schleienloch car park on Rechter Rheindamm in Hard, near the Fischerheim am Schleienloch restaurant. From here, cycle to the official starting point at the Rhine bridge. Please follow local signs and check the applicable parking and payment arrangements.

A well-maintained touring or trekking bicycle, cycle helmet, drinks and clothing suitable for the weather are recommended. Bring a spare inner tube, a small repair kit and swimming gear if you are planning a dip. Binoculars can also be useful for watching wildlife in the wetlands.

Pay particular attention to traffic around Dornbirn Süd and at road crossings. In the wetland and riverside areas, cyclists may share paths with walkers and agricultural vehicles. Ride considerately, use only paths where cycling is permitted and observe any closures. Do not enter sensitive meadow or riverbank habitats within the protected areas. On the open sections, adequate sun protection in fine weather and suitable clothing when conditions change are important.

The lawns at Lake Jannersee are a pleasant place for a longer break, while the lakeside snack bar is an option for refreshments when open. Swimming is possible in the designated areas along the shore. Please use the bicycle parking facilities and follow the local rules.

The protected wetlands along the route are particularly rewarding for nature watching. Naturbad Bruggerloch, an outdoor bathing lake in nearby Höchst, is another option in the wider area, although a detour may be needed. Wherever you stop, please take care to protect local wildlife and plant life. Das "Natura 2000 - Gebiet Birken - Schwarzes Zeug" ist wegen seiner weiträumigen Moorlandschaft und Streuewiesen ein Schutzgebiet für zahlreiche gefährdete Arten wie Wachtelkönig, Grosser Brachvogel, Kiebitz oder Bekassine. Für Naturliebhaber absolut Sehenswert!