Through Doppelmayr Zoo to Bildstein

The Maria Bildstein pilgrimage destination is considered one of the most beautiful vantage points in Vorarlberg with views across the Rhine Valley that extend as far as the Swiss Alps. The walk through Doppelmayr Zoo to Bildstein is an ideal way for families to spend time together while enjoying nature. Hikers and walkers can reward themselves with refreshing drinks and a breathtaking view at the end.

Leave the A14 Rhine Valley motorway at the Dornbirn Nord exit. Then follow the L200 towards Bregenzerwald until you reach the Schwarzach turn-off before the Achrain Tunnel. From there follow the brown sign to the ‘Barockkirche Bildstein’ (baroque church).

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Parking is available where the Bildsteiner Straße starts near Doppelmayr Zoo or at the Rickenbach Chapel.

The route starts at the Rickenbach bus stop near the chapel in Wolfurt. It then turns into Brunnengasse and takes walkers and hikers through the old premises of Doppelmayr Seilbahnen GmbH near the Rickenbach stream. It continues at the back along ‘Kellaweg’ through the company car park on to a hidden gravel path to Doppelmayr Zoo. The path through the zoo leads uphill and across the L15 to continue its climb through the forest. The ‘Wurzelweg’ in the shade is particularly suitable on hot summer days. The L15 is reached after a walk of around 40 minutes along the forest path with roots and steps. The route follows this road for a few metres and then takes a left on to a gravel path. It’s just another few metres along the hiking trail past the Marienbrunnen (Mary’s Well) before the magnificent pilgrimage church of Maria Bildstein presents itself. The locals also call this path the ‘Stadtgraben’ (‘City Moat’). The basilica, the landmark of the small community of Bildstein, stands at the top on a beautiful viewing platform that presents views across the Rhine Valley to the Swiss Alps. Refreshing drinks and regional dishes are available at the Kreuz and Ochsen inns. Hikers and walkers may return by the same route back or take the No. 45 bus to Doppelmayr Zoo and walk the last few metres back to the Rickenbach district of Wolfurt.

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Sturdy shoes recommended

There’s a book box at the children’s playground behind the building yard.

Regional specialities are available from the OXA Lädele.