Just beyond Partenen lies the Wiegensee, one of the Montafon’s most special natural gems. Nestled within a rare high moor landscape and surrounded by the Verwall mountain range, the lake is an exceptional destination for anyone who wants not just to look at nature, but to experience it fully. For guests at the Hotel Fernblick Montafon, the hike to the Wiegensee makes for a particularly lovely day trip.

A natural gem in the Verwall European Protected Area

The Wiegensee lies at around 1,900 metres above sea level at the foot of the Versalspitze. The area forms part of the Verwall European Protected Area and is also part of the Natura 2000 network. High rainfall, the altitude and water-retaining soil have created an extraordinary moorland landscape here.
This unique moorland complex provides a habitat for rare plants and animals. Nestled amongst mountain pine moorland forests and various types of moorland lies the heart of the area: Lake Wiegensee.

What makes Lake Wiegensee so special

The name says it all: the lake lies in a natural hollow, a so-called ‘cradle’. The water is not dammed by a structure, but by delicate quaking sedges. This vegetation cover grows from the shore out into the lake, forming a natural boundary.
This is precisely why Lake Wiegensee is a habitat particularly worthy of protection. Anyone visiting this natural gem should make sure to stay on the marked path and not tread on the bog areas.

The hike to Wiegensee

The Wiegenseeweg is a particularly varied way to explore Lake Wiegen. This moderate hike starts at the top station of the Tafamuntbahn and initially leads uphill through the forest. Once you reach the tree line, the view opens up to the peaks of the Silvretta and the surrounding mountains.
The route is around 12.8 kilometres long. You should allow around four and a half hours for the entire walk. It starts with an uphill climb, followed by a longer descent through the Ganifertal valley back to Partenen.

A comfortable journey to the starting point on the Tafamuntbahn

The initial ascent can be tackled in complete comfort on the Tafamuntbahn. The actual hike begins at the mountain station, at around 1,550 metres above sea level. The path leads through the forest and continues uphill towards Wiegensee.
Anyone planning the tour should check the current operating times of the Tafamuntbahn in advance. Another route leads from Wiegensee on to the Verbellaalpe and then towards Zeinisjoch or Kopssee.

Experiencing nature without leaving a trace

The moorland around Lake Wiegensee is fragile. In particular, you must not walk on the quaking bogs, as even minor damage can harm this sensitive habitat. This means: stay on the marked path, keep your distance from the moor and simply let this special natural environment work its magic.
If you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll discover not only the lake but also the various types of moorland, mountain pine moor forests and, with a bit of luck, wildlife on the slopes below the Versalspitze.

Verbellaalpe: a stop for refreshments with mountain views

Depending on the route you choose, the Verbellaalpe is a great place to stop for refreshments. The path leads from the Wiegensee onwards through the Verbellatal valley and above the valley towards the alp. During the alpine season, the hut, which is open to the public, is a lovely spot for a break.
The hike thus combines a nature experience, exercise and a cosy stop for refreshments – just what you’d expect from a perfect day in the mountains.

From the Wiegensee to the Fernblick

After a walk through the tranquil moorland, the anticipation of a relaxing evening at the Hotel Fernblick Montafon is particularly high. Back at the hotel, guests can enjoy the spa facilities, fine dining and sweeping views across the Montafon.
The Wiegensee reveals a completely different side to our mountain world: peaceful, unspoilt and exceptionally delicate. Anyone wishing to combine their holiday in the Montafon with special experiences of nature should definitely add this natural gem to their personal hiking list.

Fotos: Stefan Kothner - Montafon Tourismus GmbH, Schruns