Cycling Tour from Dornbirn via Rohrspitz to Bregenz

This cycle tour covers around 38 kilometres, linking Dornbirn's market square with Lake Constance and the centre of Bregenz. Between the two towns lie the broad Rhine Valley, open meadows and the watery landscapes of the Rhine Delta around Rohrspitz. There is very little climbing, although the distance calls for a reasonable level of fitness. The route is particularly suited to an unhurried day out by bike, with time to watch wildlife, take a break by the lake and enjoy the cultural sights at the finish.

The tour begins at the market square (Marktplatz) in Dornbirn. With St Martin’s Parish Church and the historic Rotes Haus (Red House), the starting point offers an immediate glimpse into Dornbirn’s history. From the lively town centre, the route follows Stadtstraße towards the Dornbirner Ache river and continues alongside it into the open Rhine Valley plain. The terrain slopes gently towards Lake Constance, with no significant mountain climbs along the route.

The route passes the restaurant "Obst-Guat zum Steirer" and continues through green meadows and fields towards Lustenau. The generally small changes in elevation allow for a steady cycling rhythm. Near Lustenau, the tour crosses the Rhine and continues towards the Rhine Delta. The open countryside gradually gives way to a landscape characterised by water and wetlands. The Rheindelta Nature Reserve provides an important habitat for birds and other wildlife – an ideal opportunity to slow down and observe nature from the designated paths.

After crossing the Rhine, the route follows the Old Rhine (Alter Rhein) through Höchst and turns towards Rohrspitz near the restaurant "s'Birkele". The peninsula near Fußach extends into Lake Constance, offering expansive views across the water. This area is ideal for a break by the lake, and Rohrspitz also has a designated swimming area. In this protected landscape, respecting wildlife and vegetation and following the signs is particularly important.

From the Rhine Delta, the route continues through the Fußach area, crossing the Rhine and the Dornbirner Ache once again before passing the harbours of Hard. It then follows the shores of Lake Constance towards Bregenz. The final kilometres combine the natural beauty of the lakeside landscape with the lively atmosphere of the city.

In Bregenz, the tour passes through the area around the Festspielhaus (Festival Hall) and its famous floating stage, before continuing along the lakeside promenade. This is an excellent place to enjoy views across Lake Constance. The tour finishes near Kornmarktstraße, close to Kornmarktplatz, where cafés, cultural attractions and Bregenz’s town centre provide a varied and enjoyable end to the ride. As the start and finish are in different locations, travelling back by train is a convenient option.

The tour starts at Marktplatz in Dornbirn, 6850 Dornbirn, and finishes around Kornmarktstraße/Kornmarktplatz in Bregenz, 6900 Bregenz.

By public transport

Bus stop at the start: Dornbirn Rathaus, a short walk from the market square.

Bus stop at the finish: Bregenz Inselstraße/Kornmarkt, near the Kornmarkt area.

Train station at the start: Dornbirn Bahnhof; the market square can be reached on foot or by local bus.

Train station at the finish: Bregenz Hafen Bahnhof, within walking distance of Kornmarkt. Bregenz Bahnhof is another option for the return journey.

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

Take the A14 motorway and follow signs towards Dornbirn town centre to reach the area around the market square.

Parken

The recommended option is "Stadtgarage Dornbirn, Rathausplatz 1, 6850 Dornbirn. It is only a few minutes from the starting point and provides secure, weather-protected parking. The car park is managed; please observe the current conditions displayed on site.

A roadworthy touring or trekking bike with reliable brakes and tyres suitable for any unpaved sections is recommended. Bring a cycle helmet, drinking water, a small repair kit and an extra layer suited to the weather. Binoculars are useful for watching wildlife in the Rhine Delta.

Expect other road users in Dornbirn, Lustenau and Bregenz, as well as at road crossings. Take particular care at junctions and on shared paths, and give way to pedestrians where appropriate. Exposed stretches can feel more demanding in windy weather, while wet or muddy paths call for extra care after rain. Within the Rhine Delta nature reserve, use only permitted routes, observe signs and avoid disturbing wildlife. Check the weather and any path closures before setting off.

Places to Eat and Drink

Restaurants and cafés around Dornbirn’s market square and in Bregenz offer opportunities for a break before or after the tour. Along the route, the restaurants "zum Steirer" and "s'Birkele" are also worth a visit.

Further Information

Rohrspitz offers beautiful views across Lake Constance and inviting places to relax. The designated swimming area is a particularly appealing stop in warm weather. The Rhine Delta is one of the most important wetland areas around Lake Constance. Its reed beds, wet meadows and shoreline habitats are best appreciated by taking time to observe them from a respectful distance. Those wishing to extend the cultural experience can discover plenty of attractions in Bregenz around the lakeside promenade and the Festspielhaus.