Hiking Tips & Emergency Numbers

Tips & information for a safe mountain experience

Breathtaking mountain landscapes, fresh mountain air and peace away from everyday life await you in our region. To ensure that your hiking day remains safe and relaxed, we have put together some important tips and emergency numbers for you.

Important emergency numbers

  • European emergency number: 112
  • Vorarlberg mountain rescue: 144

Make a note of these numbers or save them directly in your mobile phone so that you can act quickly in an emergency.

Good planning is half the battle

Check the route: Find out about the length and difficulty of your tour. Let relatives or your host know your destination and planned return time.

Current weather forecast: Mountain weather is unpredictable. Find out about the forecast and get local tips from the locals. This will help you avoid unexpected weather surprises.

Plan a time buffer: Start early in the morning and plan enough time reserves so that you can return safely before nightfall.

The right equipment counts

Pack sturdy shoes, warm clothing, provisions, sunglasses, sunscreen, rain protection, a hiking map and a mobile phone for emergencies. A well-packed rucksack makes all the difference.

Listen to your body

Realistically assess your fitness: Pace yourself according to the weakest person in the group. Take breaks and don't overtax yourself - enjoy nature at your own pace.

Drink enough: plenty of water will help you stay fit. You should avoid alcohol, however, as it impairs your performance.

Always on the right track

Follow the markings: The hiking trails are uniformly marked - stick to these orientation aids.

Always close pasture fences behind you.

Turn back in good time: If in doubt, turn back earlier. Better safe than sorry!

Enjoy nature with respect

Be considerate: Avoid noise, don't leave any garbage behind and stick to the nature conservation rules. Respect your boundaries and those of nature - for yourself and for other hikers.

Read more about the "Respect your boundaries" initiative here.

Safety to the point

Use the location number: All hiking trails in Vorarlberg are marked according to the hiking trail concept and divided into three levels of difficulty. In an emergency, the location number helps to communicate your exact location and enable rapid assistance.

Fair on the road: enjoying nature together

Our region offers you many opportunities to experience nature in your own way. Whether you prefer slow and unfiltered hiking or enjoy the flexibility of mountain biking to gather as many impressions as possible - one thing remains the same: you want to have a great time in the mountains and seek relaxation in your own way. And with a clear thought in your head, everyone will succeed: sporting spirit!

In our region, there are areas where hikers and bikers meet more often. With a conscious approach to each other and a sporting spirit, your time in the mountains will be a real pleasure for you and others!

Sporting spirit: respect for all hikers and bikers

Sometimes you wish you were alone on the trail. Or you want to take the next bend in the road with a lot of momentum. But on some trails, you share nature with others. With a few simple ideas and a smile, everyone can enjoy being together.

Sporting spirit for hikers on shared trails with bikers

  • Move aside with a smile if there is enough space.
  • Do not get in the way of bikers.

Sporting spirit for bikers on shared trails with hikers

  • Give priority to hikers.
  • Use a bell to draw attention in good time.
  • Pass hikers at walking pace or dismount briefly.
  • Brake gently to protect the paths.

Safe on pastures: Friendly encounters with animals

Like you, cows, sheep, goats and horses also enjoy life outdoors. Thanks to the farmers in our region, they can follow their natural instincts and lead a species-appropriate life on alpine pastures. But just like us humans, they will defend themselves if they feel themselves or their offspring are threatened. To avoid misunderstandings when encountering grazing animals, you should observe a few important rules of conduct.

Rules for respectful interaction:

  • Keep your distance! Avoid contact with grazing animals, do not feed them and keep your distance.
  • Keep calm! Do not frighten the animals.
  • Watch out for mother cows! They protect their calves. Keep dogs away!
  • Keep dogs on a short leash! If an attack is imminent, unleash your dog immediately to get it out of the danger zone.
  • Stay on the paths! Do not leave the marked paths on pastures.
  • Grazing cattle on the path? Walk past at a safe distance.
  • Animals approaching? Stay calm, don't turn your back on them and move away slowly.
  • Animals restless? Leave the grazing area quickly but calmly.
  • Pay attention to fences! Use existing gates, close them carefully and cross the pasture quickly.
  • Respect people, animals and nature! Treat everything with respect and caution.

These simple rules will keep your encounters with the grazing animals peaceful - and the "moo" friendly!