Sautränkeweg: Ways into Wildpark Feldkirch

The Sautränkeweg links the Altenstadt/Heldenstraße level crossing with Wildpark Feldkirch. Following forest tracks and woodland paths, the route climbs through the woods on Ardetzenberg to the Sautränke, which gives the path its name. The term “Sautränke” literally translates to “pig watering place” in English and refers to a natural or man-made spot where wild boar or pigs come to drink. Peaceful woodland sections, the Sparefroh playground and the animal enclosures add variety along the way. Although the route is short, a reasonable level of fitness is required for some of the steeper sections.

The walk starts at the car park by the level crossing between Feldkirch-Levis and Altenstadt. From here, follow the forest track uphill, initially along the Rheinblickweg. The first section climbs steadily and is steep in places as it passes through the woods.

After a short while, the route turns onto Schallerhofstraße. This leads to Höhenstraße and eventually to the Sautränkeweg. The woodland path continues to wind uphill to the Sautränke, a good place to stop for a short break.

The path then continues mainly on the level through the woods. Passing the Sparefroh playground, it reaches Wildpark Feldkirch. The walk ends by the deer and wolf enclosures.

We recommend travelling to the starting point by public transport. The route starts at the level crossing on Altenstadt-Heldenstraße and finishes at Wildpark Feldkirch on Ardetzenberg.

By public transport

Bus stop at the start: Feldkirch Altenstadt Heimatweg. The starting point is around a five-minute walk from the bus stop. Alternatively, the Altenstadt Bahnhof and Altenstadt Rebberggasse bus stops are located nearby.

Bus stop at the finish: There is no bus stop directly at Wildpark Feldkirch. After descending towards the town centre, the Feldkirch Katzenturm or Feldkirch Busplatz stops can be used for the return journey.

Railway station: Take the S-Bahn to Feldkirch Amberg. The starting point is around a ten-minute walk from the station. When travelling by Railjet or REX, alight at Feldkirch railway station and continue by bus to Feldkirch Altenstadt Heimatweg.

Plan your journey here: https://www.vmobil.at/

By car

Take the A14 Rheintal/Walgau motorway to the Feldkirch-Nord exit. Continue along the B190 towards Feldkirch and Altenstadt, then follow Heldenstraße to the level crossing.

A valid motorway vignette is required when travelling via the motorway.

Parking

Parking is available by the level crossing on Heldenstraße. Please observe the regulations displayed on site.

For this walk, we recommend suitable equipment: a walking rucksack, sturdy and comfortable footwear, clothing appropriate for the weather, trekking poles if required, sun and rain protection, provisions and sufficient drinking water, a first-aid kit and a mobile phone.

Some sections of the forest tracks and woodland paths are steep. The surface may be slippery in wet conditions or when covered with leaves, snow or ice. Using an all-terrain pushchair requires sure-footedness, sufficient strength and confident handling.

Check the weather and path conditions before setting out. Walkers use the route at their own risk.

EMERGENCY NUMBER:

112 European emergency number, available from any mobile phone on any network

Best time of year:
The walk can be completed throughout the year. However, the steep woodland paths may be more difficult to negotiate in snow, ice or heavy rain.

Suitability:
The route is suitable for people with a good level of fitness, keen walkers, active older visitors and families with children. It can generally be completed with an all-terrain pushchair.

Refreshments and rest stops:
The Sautränke is a good place to stop for a short break in the woods. Wildpark Feldkirch has a seasonally operated kiosk and the Sparefroh playground. The wildlife park is open all year round and admission is by voluntary donation.

Sustainable travel:
Walking to the wildlife park reduces pressure on the car park on Ardetzenweg. This helps to keep parking spaces available for visitors who need them more, including those travelling with a wheelchair or pushchair.

Further information: https://www.wildpark-feldkirch.at/