Montafon lore part 3: The Wiegensee European nature reserve

High above Gaschurn lies the unique moor complex of the Wiegensee European nature reserve. The oldest reservoir in the Montafon was created in this mountain idyll by natural conditions. Discover the almost 65 hectares of this incomparable natural jewel, which provides a habitat for numerous rare or endangered plant species.

Unique moorland landscape

The high altitude and heavy rainfall are the starting point for this rare development in the middle of the Montafon mountains. The moorland at the foot of the Versalspitze could only develop under these particularly wet conditions. The heart of the protected area is located in the middle of the mountain pine moor forests: Lake Wiegensee. The reservoir has developed naturally. The water is not dammed up by built walls, but by the so-called "Schwingrasen". These lawns extend from the shore into the water and thus keep the water within the lake.

Be careful where you step!

However, this natural boundary is particularly sensitive and immediately begins to swing on the water when stepped on. This can cause damage and any damage to the oscillating grass can cause the lake to drain. Care must therefore be taken when exploring the European nature reserve: Do not leave the marked paths and swimming in the unique natural jewel is unfortunately not permitted.

Home to delicate flowers

The damp raised bog provides a habitat for many plant species that would otherwise not be able to survive in the Montafon climate. The shores of the lake are adorned with white and brown beak rush. This acid grass can only be found in Vorarlberg to such an extent here at Wiegensee. The pretty rosemary heather also sprouts in the moorland. Thanks to its pink flowers, it provides colorful variety in the otherwise brown and green-dominated landscape between May and October. Carnivores are also native to the Wiegensee nature reserve. The sundew, which attracts insects with its sweet secretion, which stick to it and are then digested by it, thrives particularly well in the moist soil. The conservation of these rare species is one of the main aims of the Natura 2000 protected areas that can be found throughout Europe. In addition to the Wiegensee conservation area, there are 38 other Natura 2000 areas in Vorarlberg with a total area of 24,140 hectares.

Discovery tour

A day in the Wiegensee nature reserve is an extraordinary hiking excursion that will make your vacation at Fernblick even more special. Experience this natural jewel on your own hike or learn all about the European nature reserve on a tour with nature guide Gerlinde. Every Thursday at 08:45 at the Tafamuntbahn Partenen valley station, we set off together to this breathtaking natural gem. You can find more information online at TVB Montafon.

Image rights: Montafon_Tourismus_Stefan_Kothner