Mountain railways in Kleinwalsertal take you to the summit
Going into the mountains without at least reaching a summit is like going to the sea without even going for a swim. In the Kleinwalsertal you can spend a holiday in Austria with hiking for connoisseurs. There are eight mountain railways in Kleinwalsertal and Oberstdorf for this. Five of them are in the Kleinwalsertal. Often our program does not allow excursions on our travels, but this time we have luck and time for them. So we decide to take our time to explore one of the mountains in the Kleinwalsertal in Austria seen from above. We ask which of the Walser mountains offers the most beautiful view and decide to take the mountain railway up to the Walmendingerhorn.
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Mountain railways in the Kleinwalsertal
Cable cars in Kleinwalsertal allow you to see the Alpine mountains from above without any effort. In Kleinwalsertal, this is easy. It is also worth taking a look at the Walser CardThis includes numerous price savings for mountain railways, swimming pools, museums, indoor experiences, and nature activities. We didn't need to be told twice and took advantage of the offer for a trip to the Walmendingerhorn from Mittelberg. Mountain meadows as in the Schwarzwassertal we did not see here. But the alpine pastures of the Mountain farmers. We had been told that the view from above should be the most beautiful in the valley and we wanted to test it. There are a total of eight mountain railways in Kleinwalsertal and Oberstdorf: five cable cars and three chair lifts that take hikers up to the mountain peaks in summer and skiers in winter.
Mountain railways in Oberstdorf
The Walser Card is also helpful.
Opening hours of the cable cars in 2025:
- Walmendingerhornbahn: 09.05. until November 09.11.2025th, XNUMX
- Kanzelwandbahn: May 16.05 to November 09.11.2025, XNUMX
- Fellhornbahn: May 28.05 to November 09.11.2025, XNUMX
- Nebelhornbahn: May 29.05th until November 09.11.2025th, XNUMX
- Söllereckbahn: May 01.05 to November 09.11.2025, XNUMX
- Heuberg & Parsenn: May 28.05 to October 26.10.2025, XNUMX
- Ifen: June 27.06 to October 26.10.2025, XNUMX
With the cable car to the Walmendingerhorn
We reach the Walmendingerhorn via a gondola lift, which reaches up to 40 people and climbs past avalanche slopes, spectacular crags and steep mountain sides to the top station. This is still slightly below the summit, which can be reached via a winding path. If you do not want to do that, you can enjoy the view from a viewing platform directly at the mountain railway. The view of the surrounding mountain ranges is terrific.
viewing platform
We go out onto the platform and can't get enough of the mountain ranges, one after the other. The most striking is the Widderstein, at 2533 meters the highest mountain in Kleinwalsertal. Topographically, it is one of the Allgäu Alps and rises directly in front of us from the Kleinwalsertal valley. We watch as more and more clouds slowly gather around its flanks. There will probably be thunderstorms again, like the day before. But it is still pleasantly cool on the summit of the Walmendingerhorn in Vorarlberg, more pleasant than down in the valley, where it is already summery, hot and humid. You can enjoy the mountain air with the mountain railways in Kleinwalsertal.
You want to know the name of the mountains you see? Then have a look at Gepackt & Los. Janine has discovered ingenious apps with which you find out the mountain names .
Hike or chill out?
We have the choice of taking an elevator down to the hiking trail that leads into the valley, past wooden loungers that invite you to relax. I haven't been to a mountain peak in the Alps for a long time, but that surprises me. In addition to the wooden benches along the way, hikers can now rest on these wooden loungers or relax in the light of the afternoon sun from the exertions of the ascent.
The alternative that presents itself to us and that we choose is to drink a spritzer in the summit restaurant before we take the train back down to the valley, because we want to go to the gourmet region in the afternoon Kleinwalsertal explore further. You could say we “chill with a view” and enjoy the view as much as we enjoy our apricot juice with sparkling water. At such a moment, I wished that this moment would last forever and I am happy that this is my work. How beautiful our world can be! If you have more time, you can start a day of hiking with the mountain railways in Kleinwalsertal and hike into the valley.
Questions and answers about the cable cars in Kleinwalsertal
Which cable cars are there in Kleinwalsertal and which is the best for a leisurely hike?
In Kleinwalsertal, there are several cable cars that will take you high up. The most popular are the Kanzelwandbahn, the Ifenbahn, and the Walmendingerhornbahn. Each has its own charm, but if you're looking for a relaxing hike with a magnificent view, the Walmendingerhornbahn is a top choice. It takes you to over 1.900 meters, and from there, you can leisurely stroll through the alpine landscape on magnificent panoramic trails. The trail toward Grünhorn is particularly beautiful—not too strenuous, but with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
Are there any mountain railways that also operate in winter?
Yes, absolutely! Especially in winter, some cable cars are essential for skiers and snowboarders. The Kanzelwandbahn and Ifenbahn, for example, run throughout the entire winter season to take you to the best slopes. There's also good news for winter hikers: With the Walmendingerhornbahn, you can enjoy breathtaking snowy scenery and walk along groomed trails – all without skis. And if you fancy a toboggan ride, check out the Heubergbahn; there are also great runs for sledding enthusiasts!
Are the cable cars in Kleinwalsertal also suitable for families with children?
Definitely! Especially for families with small children, the cable cars are a real relief, as they save you the strenuous climb and take you directly into the mountains. The Kanzelwandbahn is particularly family-friendly because you'll find a fantastic adventure area at the top, where even younger children can have fun. There are easy hiking trails, play areas, and plenty of places to relax. If your kids love animals, a trip on the Ifenbahn is also worthwhile, as you'll often see cows and marmots on the alpine pastures there.
How expensive are the cable cars in Kleinwalsertal?
Prices vary depending on the lift, the time of year, and whether you're buying a single or combined ticket. In summer, there are often special offers that allow you to use multiple cable cars with one ticket. And if you're staying at a partner accommodation, you can even use the cable cars for free! In winter, tickets for skiers are usually a bit more expensive, as they also serve as a ski pass. It's best to check the current prices beforehand on the official Kleinwalsertal website so you know what to expect.
Can I book my cable car ticket online or do I have to buy it on site?
You can now conveniently purchase your ticket for many mountain railways online. This is especially convenient during peak season, as it allows you to avoid long lines at the ticket counter. If you prefer to decide spontaneously, you can of course also buy tickets directly at the valley stations. Some accommodations even offer mountain railway tickets as an inclusive service – it's best to ask directly when booking your accommodation!
Are there restaurants at the mountain stations or do I have to bring my own food?
Don't worry, you don't have to set off with a full backpack! There are huts or restaurants at almost every mountain station where you can stop for a bite to eat. The panorama restaurant on the Kanzelwand is particularly cozy, where you can feast with an incredible view. If you prefer something rustic, try the Alpine inns around the Ifenbahn. And if you want to bring your own snack, there are benches and picnic areas everywhere where you can enjoy your snack with the best view.
What is the best time of year to take the cable car to Kleinwalsertal?
It all depends on what you want to experience! In spring, the alpine meadows bloom, in summer you can enjoy wonderful hikes, in autumn the golden leaves bathe the landscape in a magical light, and in winter, an enchanting snowy landscape awaits you. Autumn is especially popular because the temperatures are pleasant and the mountains are particularly colorful. But no matter what time of year you visit – the view from above is always a highlight!
Travel Charme Ifen Hotel
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Hotels in the Kleinwalsertal*
You need that for a tour with the mountain railways in Kleinwalsertal
- We definitely recommend comfortable walking shoes for a hike in Kleinwalsertal, Vorarlberg.
- It is also practical for on the go large backpack in which you store a drink, snack in a lunch box, a jacket as well as small items.
- What you need for a picnic – For example, you can have a picnic on one of the mountain meadows with a view of the mountains in the valley in Vorarlberg.
- Binoculars – On this hike you can, for example, observe birds and look out for other animals.
- You will definitely be well equipped for hiking in Kleinwalsertal, Vorarlberg, Austria with hiking maps and hiking guides.
- Do you have everything? With our hiking checklist You can also easily check this.
- Do you like to travel with the motorhome? There are several campsites in the valley. Our packing list for campers It also helps ensure that you don't forget anything.
- In winter the Kleinwalsertal offers ski areas for winter sports enthusiasts. Our Packing list winter vacation also helps with packing your suitcase for your winter vacation.
- Why is a folding e-bike useful when camping?
Travel Arrangements
Parking at the airport
Here you can reserve your parking space at the airport.
Arrival by plane, car, bus and train to the mountain railways in Kleinwalsertal
Compare and book flights here*. (Advertisement) The nearest airport is Munich. You can also travel by train. The train goes to Oberstdorf. From there, bus #1 takes you to Kleinwalsertal: Timetable and booking*
Car Rentals:
Cheap car hire - book quickly and easily!
Rent Motorhomes:
Book motorhomes in Europe here! Or do you like traveling with it instead? roof tent on the car? In addition, the overnight stay in camping tents possible. For example, you can find a campsite at Alpencamping Haller, Köpfleweg 10a, 6991 Riezlern, Austria. With our motorhome packing list you will never forget anything again.
Accommodation near the mountain railways in Kleinwalsertal:
Accommodation for online booking is also available in Kleinwalsertal* via Booking.com.
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Do you know this?
- Road trip through the Kleinwalsertal
- A Pernakultur garden in the Kleinwalsertal
- How the Walser came from the Valais Alps to the Kleinwalsertal
- Farms in the Kleinwalsertal
- Kleinwalsertal Eating and drinking
- Restaurants in the Kleinwalsertal
- Gifts for hikers
Source: Kleinwalsertal cable cars: On-site research. We would like to thank the Kleinwalsertal Tourism Board and the Travel Charme Ifen Hotel for the invitation to this trip. Our opinions, however, remain our own.
Text mountain railways in Kleinwalsertal: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TWO
Photos of mountain railways in Kleinwalsertal: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TWO
Video mountain railways in Kleinwalsertal : © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TWO
