Pfänder Loop from Bregenz via Fluh and Möggers

This varied circular mountain bike tour links the centre of Bregenz with the wooded hills around Pfänder. From Bregenz, the route climbs via Fluh and the Hirschberg area into the upland landscape between Tröger Höhe, Hochberg and Möggers. The return journey leads through Lutzenreute and Lochau back to Lake Constance.

Covering approximately 27.4 kilometres with around 760 metres of ascent, the route calls for a good level of fitness. Steep climbs, alternating stretches of tarmac and gravel, and longer descents make the circuit particularly appealing to sporty cyclists. Woodland, views across Lake Constance and the final ride along the lakeshore provide a rewarding variety of scenery.

The circular tour starts at Bregenz railway station on Fritz-Mayer-Platz. It initially leads through the city centre and pedestrian zone towards Thalbach. Shortly afterwards, the character of the route begins to change: the streets of Vorarlberg’s capital are left behind as the first climbs lead into the wooded hillsides above Bregenz. Lake Constance provides the scenic starting point for a tour that climbs from the lakeshore to considerably higher elevations.

The climb towards Fluh is one of the most physically demanding sections of the tour. A considerable amount of elevation is gained over a relatively short distance, with some particularly steep sections. Alongside tarmac roads, the ascent also includes gravel forest tracks and agricultural access roads.

In Fluh, a district of Bregenz, the route passes close to St Wendelin’s Parish Church, a prominent local landmark. It then continues through the Stollen area into an increasingly peaceful, wooded landscape of rolling hills. In Wirtatobel, gravel tracks and the nearby stream characterise the surroundings. The historic weir with its waterwheel (Altes Wehr mit Wasserrad) is also located very close to the route.

The tour then passes the Hinteregg cheese dairy (Sennerei Hinteregg) and continues through the Hirschberg area and across Tröger Höhe towards Hochberg. The route winds through a hilly upland landscape, where short descents are regularly followed by further climbs. The highest section of the tour is reached approximately halfway along the route, at an altitude of more than 1,000 metres above sea level.

Continuing across the hills near Möggers, the route heads towards Ried and Lutzenreute. The "Riedstüble" inn near Möggers offers an opportunity to stop for refreshments. Further along, sections of the route follow a stream towards Lutzenreute, marking the gradual transition from the hills back towards the Lake Constance region.

From Lutzenreute, a longer descent begins towards Hörbranz and Lochau. As the route loses considerable elevation, Lake Constance increasingly comes back into view. Due to the steep gradients in places, maintaining an appropriate speed and reliable braking control is particularly important.

In Lochau, the tour passes Schloss Hofen and St Francis Xavier’s Parish Church before returning to the area around the Lake Constance shore. A much more relaxed final section follows the lakeside cycle path back to Bregenz. The expansive views across the lake and the surrounding shoreline provide a beautiful conclusion to the ride before the tour finishes at Bregenz railway station. It is also possible to join the circular route at other suitable, easily accessible points along the way.

The starting and finishing point of the tour is the Fritz-Mayer-Platz area next to Bregenz railway station, 6900 Bregenz.

By public transport

Bus stop at the start/finish: Bregenz Bahnhof, immediately beside the starting point.

Train station at the start/finish: Bregenz Bahnhof, immediately beside the starting point.

Travelling by train and bus allows you to start the route without searching for a parking space.

Plan your journey at vmobil.at

By car

Bregenz can be reached via the A14 motorway or the regional road network. Within the city, follow the signs towards Bregenz railway station. Observe the local traffic regulations around the station and city centre.

Parking

The recommended parking space is Fritz-Mayer-Platz car park by Bregenz railway station. This official parking area is immediately beside the starting point. Observe the parking conditions displayed on site and any temporary restrictions.

A well-maintained mountain bike with tyres suitable for off-road riding, gearing appropriate for steep climbs and reliable brakes for longer descents is recommended. Essential equipment includes a cycle helmet, sufficient drinking water, a small repair kit, and sun and rain protection. Clothing suited to changing weather conditions is advisable even though the ride starts beside Lake Constance, as the route reaches altitudes above 1,000 metres.

The steep climbs above Bregenz require a good level of fitness and suitable gear selection. On gravel forest tracks and access roads, loose stones can reduce grip, particularly on bends or after rain. The longer descents towards Lochau call for controlled speed and particular care.

In urban areas and on shared-use paths, consideration for pedestrians and other road users is important. Local traffic rules apply in pedestrian areas, and bicycles must be pushed where necessary. Signs and any cycling restrictions must be respected on forest tracks and access roads. Checking the weather forecast and possible route closures before setting off is recommended.

Gasthaus Ried Stüble near Möggers offers a place to stop for refreshments along the circuit. There are also opportunities for a break or a meal in Bregenz and the Lochau area. Current opening times should be checked in advance.

St Wendelin's Parish Church in Fluh is a local point of interest. The wooded uplands around Hirschberg and Hochberg offer a scenic contrast to the final stretch beside Lake Constance. The route goes around Pfänder without requiring a visit to the Pfänderbahn cable car or the Pfänder summit.

Places to Eat and Drink

The Ried Stüble inn near Möggers is a good place to stop for refreshments along the route. Bregenz and the Lochau area also offer opportunities to combine the tour with a break or a visit to a restaurant. Current opening hours should be checked in advance.

Further Information

St Wendelin’s Parish Church in Fluh is well worth seeing. The wooded hills around Hirschberg and Hochberg provide a scenic contrast to the final section along Lake Constance. The circular tour takes cyclists around the Pfänder without requiring a visit to the Pfänder cable car or the summit.