Montafon, Austria Travel Guide

Montafon, Austria: A Scenic Alpine Valley Perfect for Year-Round Outdoor Adventures and Authentic Cultural Experiences.

Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Montafon is a picturesque valley that captures the essence of alpine beauty. Known for its stunning landscapes, Montafon offers a blend of snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and charming villages. The region is perfect for both winter sports enthusiasts and summer hikers alike. In winter, Montafon transforms into a snowy wonderland with over 140 kilometers of ski slopes catering to all levels. The area is also renowned for its cross-country skiing trails, snowshoeing paths, and ice climbing routes. For those seeking relaxation, the valley offers cozy alpine huts where you can savor traditional Austrian cuisine by a warm fireplace. During the warmer months, Montafon becomes a paradise for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers. The valley boasts an extensive network of trails that lead through verdant forests, past crystal-clear mountain lakes, and up to panoramic viewpoints. The diverse flora and fauna add to the appeal, making each trek a unique experience. Local festivals and events throughout the year provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Montafon.

Visit in late spring or early autumn for fewer crowds and milder weather, ideal for hiking and exploring.
Purchase a Montafon Brandnertal Card for unlimited access to cable cars and public transportation in the region.
Try the local dish 'Käsknöpfle', a traditional cheese dumpling that is a must-taste in Montafon.
Check out the local markets for handmade crafts and fresh alpine produce.
Make sure to carry cash, as some small eateries and shops might not accept credit cards.

Top City Travel Guides in Montafon

The cities of Montafon, and the easiest places to base yourself.

St. Anton am Arlberg

Destinations in Montafon

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Ischgl

Lünersee

Lech

Lech-Zürs am Arlberg

Explore Montafon: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Montafon

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Best Attractions

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Golm im Montafon

Discover Golm im Montafon, a stunning mountain paradise for skiing in winter and hiking in summer, surrounded by breathtaking Alpine beauty.

4.6

Swiss National Park

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss National Park, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife await every visitor.

4.8

Bürserschlucht

Explore the enchanting Bürserschlucht Gorge, a natural oasis perfect for hiking, photography, and immersing in Austria's breathtaking landscapes.

4.7

Montafon Kristbergbahn Silbertal GmbH

Discover breathtaking views and exhilarating adventures at Montafon Kristbergbahn, the ultimate mountain cable car experience in the Austrian Alps.

4.6

Best landmarks in Montafon

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Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße, a scenic alpine road in Austria offering stunning views and outdoor adventures.

4.8

Golm im Montafon

Discover Golm im Montafon: A premier alpine destination for skiing, hiking, and breathtaking views in the heart of the Austrian Alps.

4.6

Silvretta Montafon GmbH

Discover the stunning beauty of Silvretta Montafon, a premier ski resort with breathtaking views, thrilling slopes, and year-round outdoor adventures.

4.4

Silvretta Montafon

Experience thrilling skiing and stunning alpine beauty at Silvretta Montafon, Austria's premier ski resort destination.

4.6

Best restaurants in Montafon

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Alpengasthof Muttersberg

Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Alpengasthof Muttersberg while exploring stunning hiking trails in Nüziders.

4.5

Brunellawirt

Discover Brunellawirt: A delightful restaurant in Garfrescha serving authentic Austrian cuisine amidst breathtaking scenery.

4.5

Kapellrestaurant

Experience alpine dining at its best at Kapellrestaurant - where tradition meets breathtaking mountain views in Montafon.

4.0

Panoramagasthof Kristberg

Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Panoramagasthof Kristberg surrounded by stunning mountain views in the heart of Montafon.

4.7

Best bars in Montafon

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Lindauer Hütte

Discover the charm of Lindauer Hütte, a mountain retreat in Tschagguns offering stunning views, local cuisine, and a perfect base for outdoor adventures.

4.6

Kapellrestaurant

Discover the enchanting Kapellrestaurant, a mountain cabin offering delicious local cuisine and breathtaking views in the heart of Montafon.

4.0

Berghof Golm

Experience the best of Tyrolean cuisine and cozy mountain lodging at Berghof Golm, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Tschagguns.

4.5

Valisera Hüsli

Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Valisera Hüsli, offering stunning views and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the Montafon Valley.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Montafon

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SENDER club

Discover the energetic nightlife of SENDER Club in Lustenau, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere await every night.

3.2

Heuboda Gaschurn - Aprés Ski, Bar, Disco

Experience vibrant après ski at Heuboda Gaschurn, a lively bar and disco offering delicious drinks and unforgettable nightlife in the heart of the Alps.

4.4

Mobar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Schruns at Mobar, where friends gather over drinks in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

4.3

ONEWAY Pub

Experience the vibrant nightlife at ONEWAY Pub, the perfect spot for tourists in Schruns to unwind and enjoy local drinks and live music.

4.3

Best shops in Montafon

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Einkaufszentrum Messepark

Explore Einkaufszentrum Messepark in Dornbirn, Austria, where shopping meets leisure in a vibrant atmosphere filled with diverse stores and delightful dining options.

4.3

ZIMBAPARK Shopping Center

Explore the vibrant ZIMBAPARK Shopping Center in Bürs, where shopping meets leisure, dining, and family fun.

4.4

Milka Lädele

Discover the sweet world of Milka chocolate at Milka Lädele, a must-visit chocolate shop in Bludenz, Austria, offering an exquisite range of delightful treats.

4.3

Silvretta Montafon GmbH

Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures of Silvretta Montafon, a premier alpine destination for skiing and mountain exploration.

4.4

Explore Montafon on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Montafon, mapped for you.

Montafon Essentials

Montafon is located in the Vorarlberg region of Austria. The nearest international airport is Zurich Airport in Switzerland, approximately 150 kilometers away. From Zurich, you can take a train to Bludenz, which is the gateway to Montafon. The train journey takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Innsbruck Airport, which is about 120 kilometers away and offers a more scenic route to Montafon.
Montafon is well-connected by public transportation. The Montafonerbahn, a local train, runs from Bludenz to Schruns, making stops at various villages in the valley. Buses also operate frequently and are a convenient way to explore the area. For those who prefer to drive, car rentals are available, but keep in mind that some roads can be narrow and winding. Biking is a popular way to get around during the summer months.
The official currency in Austria is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments and for public transportation. ATMs are available in all major villages within Montafon, so withdrawing cash is convenient.
Montafon is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving belongings unattended and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Montafon.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Montafon has well-equipped medical facilities, and there are hospitals in nearby Bludenz and Feldkirch. Pharmacies are available in the major villages for minor health issues. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and activities such as hiking or skiing.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Don't wear overly casual clothing when dining in finer restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be punctual, as public transport runs on a strict schedule. Don't speak loudly or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Grüß Gott' or 'Hallo'. A firm handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as Käsknöpfle and Montafoner Sauerkäse. Don't rush meals; dining is a leisurely experience.
To experience Montafon like a local, take part in seasonal activities such as hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. Visit the local farmer's markets to buy fresh produce and regional specialties. Engage with the locals; they are friendly and often willing to share tips and stories about the area. Don't miss the traditional 'Almabtrieb' festival in autumn, where cattle are adorned with flowers and bells and paraded through the villages.

When is the best time to visit Montafon?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Montafon

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Montafon. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [Hah-lo]
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [Owf Vee-der-zay-en]
- YesJa
  [Yah]
- NoNein
  [Nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [Bitt-eh]
- Thank youDanke
  [Dahn-keh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [Ent-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht's?
  [Vee gate's?]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [Goot. Oond deer?]
- Do you speak English?Sprichst du Englisch?
  [Shprikst doo English?]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [Ish fer-shtay-eh niht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte die Speisekarte sehen, bitte
  [Ish mer-khte dee Shpie-zee-kahr-teh zay-en, bitt-eh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [Ish ess-eh kine Fly-sh]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [Prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bezahlen, bitte
  [Ish mer-khte beh-tsah-len, bitt-eh]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [Hil-feh]
- Go away!Geh weg!
  [Gay vek]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [Roof-en zee dee Po-li-tsai]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [Roof-en zee eye-nen Artst]
- I'm lostIch habe mich verlaufen
  [Ish ha-beh mikh fer-lau-fen]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [Ish bin krank]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte ... kaufen
  [Ish mer-khte ... kau-fen]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [Ish shau-eh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet das?
  [Vee feel kost-et das?]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [Das ist tsu toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [Kern-en zee den price sen-ken?]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [Vee shpaet ist es?]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [Es ist ine Oor]
- Half past (10)Halb (10)
  [Halb (10)]
- MorningMorgen
  [Mor-gen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [Nahch-mit-tahg]
- EveningAbend
  [Ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [Geh-stern]
- TodayHeute
  [Hoy-teh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [Mor-gen]
- 1Eins
  [Eins]
- 2Zwei
  [Ts-vai]
- 3Drei
  [Dry]
- 4Vier
  [Feer]
- 5Fünf
  [Fünf]
- 6Sechs
  [Zex]
- 7Sieben
  [Zee-ben]
- 8Acht
  [Acht]
- 9Neun
  [Noyn]
- 10Zehn
  [Tsen]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/das...?
  [Vo ist ine/das...?]
- What's the address?Wie lautet die Adresse?
  [Vee laut-et dee Ah-dres-seh?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir (auf der Karte) zeigen?
  [Kern-en zee meer (owf der Kart-eh) tsai-gen?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [Vahn komt der nay-shteh (Boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ein Ticket (nach ...)
  [Ine Ticket (nahch ...)]

History of Montafon

Montafon, a stunning alpine valley in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg, has a rich history of early settlements. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited as far back as the Bronze Age. The first permanent settlements were likely established by the Rhaetian people, an ancient Alpine tribe known for their distinct culture and craftsmanship.
During the medieval period, Montafon became an important region due to its strategic location and fertile valleys. The Counts of Montfort, a noble family, played a significant role in the development of the area. They were instrumental in the establishment of several villages and the construction of fortifications to protect the region from invaders.
The 15th century marked a significant period in Montafon's history with the discovery of valuable resources such as silver and copper. This led to a mining boom, attracting workers and boosting the local economy. The remnants of this mining heritage can still be seen in the form of old mines and mining trails scattered throughout the valley.
In the 16th century, Montafon came under the influence of the Habsburg Empire, which brought about significant changes in the region's administrative and social structure. The Habsburgs introduced new agricultural techniques, promoted trade, and fostered cultural exchanges, leaving a lasting impact on the Montafon valley.
Montafon is rich in religious and cultural heritage, marked by numerous churches and chapels that date back to the medieval and early modern periods. The Baroque-style St. Agatha Church in Partenen and the Gothic-inspired St. Anna Church in Bartholomäberg are prime examples of the region's architectural splendor.
During World War II, Montafon, like much of Austria, faced significant challenges. The region saw the influx of refugees and was affected by the broader war efforts. After the war, Montafon transitioned from a primarily agrarian society to a burgeoning tourist destination, leveraging its natural beauty and historical significance.
Today, Montafon is known for its picturesque landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and vibrant cultural scene. The region has successfully preserved its historical charm while embracing modernity. Visitors can enjoy a blend of traditional Alpine culture and contemporary amenities, making it a unique destination for travelers.