In Mellau, trails follow waterways, climb the Kanisfluh or pass through a landscape dominated by a striking north face. The parish church, workshop and history of winter sports offer other points of interest. When planning, make sure a route leads back to Mellau, note that the Kanisfluh tour depends on the Mellaubahn operating, and remember that winter activities are seasonal.
On foot: water, mountain and rocky face
The “Around Mellau” route follows the Mellenbach and the Bregenzerach. It passes the Schwimmbadsteg, the Bengathbrücke, the hamlet of Prinzwies and the area around the mountain railway before returning to Mellau.
Another tour leads to the summit of the Kanisfluh: the Rossstelle–Kanisfluh circular tour begins with a ride on the mountain railway from Mellau, passes the Kanisalpe and reaches the summit via a hiking trail. The tour is partly dependent on the Mellaubahn operating, so check the latest operating information before planning.
Along the route from Mellau to Schnepfau, the rocks of the north face rise up to 1,300 m above the valley floor. A variety of natural habitats form a mosaic there. The water route, mountain tour and landscape between Mellau and Schnepfau thus each have their own distinct focus.
Winter trails and cross-country skiing
Seasonal winter activities include a 2.5 km winter hiking trail in the ski area on the RoĂźstelle, 10 km of groomed winter hiking trails in the village and 22.5 km of cross-country ski trails. The trails are suitable for both classic and skating styles. This offers a choice of different ways to get around; winter trails are groomed and operated seasonally. Check the latest information before planning.
Mountain bike routes and mountain railway
The Mellaubahn carries mountain bikes and e-bikes. Check the latest conditions for taking bikes on the lift before you travel. The 10.8 km Suttis Mellau mountain bike route starts at the mountain station and leads down a long descent via the Suttis Alpe to the village of Mellau. Trail conditions may change seasonally, so check them before setting off.
The Mellental loop runs gently downhill through the secluded Mellental valley to Mellau. The two route descriptions have different focuses: the Suttis route is defined by its start at the mountain station and descent via the alpine pasture, while the Mellental loop follows the valley.
Parish church and tourism history
The history of the parish church goes back to a chapel built in the late 13th century; Mellau became an independent parish in 1464. A church built between 1793 and 1806 was destroyed in the village fire of 1870. Its replacement was consecrated in 1876. The modern parish church was built in 1980–1981, while the old church tower was preserved as a landmark of the municipality.
Mellau’s tourism history also dates back to the 19th century: as summer holidays and mountaineering grew in popularity, the village developed into a popular holiday destination. In 1973, a cable car and four drag lifts opened up the Rossstelle ski area. These historical milestones give today’s interest in summer and winter activities a longer historical context.
Craft workshop and outdoor pool
The Mellau workshop showcases traditional Bregenzerwald craftsmanship in an old workshop. You can sample spirits, liqueurs and chocolate on site. Groups can arrange visits by phone outside regular opening hours. Arrange such a visit in advance and check the contact details.
Mellau swimming pool is a seasonal outdoor pool right by the Mellenbach. From May to September, the pool water is heated to about 24 °C when the weather is suitable. As operating days may change depending on the weather, check the current opening status before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Lauterach, Mittelberg, Schwarzenberg, Möggers, Riezlern, Buch, Schwarzach, Fußach
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