A fen of national importance, hiking trails across flat terrain and historic bridges are among the features that make Widnau an appealing place to stay. The municipality lies on the western bank of the Rhine, in the border region between Austria’s Vorarlberg and the canton of St. Gallen. This makes it a place to explore everything from protected landscapes to the history of the border region.
Fen landscape and paths
The Moosanger nature reserve is a fen of national importance covering around nine hectares. The Rheintaler Binnenkanal flows through Widnau and runs parallel to the Rhine on the Swiss side. It was constructed between 1894 and 1904 to drain the Rhine Valley’s swampy landscape. The canal is therefore a reminder of the historic transformation of this landscape.
Hiking trails from Widnau cross flat terrain. Some follow paved roads, while most use unpaved tracks. The terrain and predominant surface are practical factors to consider when choosing a hike. As surfaces can change over time due to maintenance, it is worth checking current conditions before planning your route.
Swimming and active exploration
The Aegeten outdoor swimming pool has a separate diving pool with 1-, 3- and 5-metre diving platforms, as well as a 47-metre teaching pool with a water slide. You can choose between the diving pool and the teaching pool with its slide. As operating conditions can change seasonally, check current opening arrangements before your visit.
The Kneipp garden offers various Kneipp activities; check the current opening arrangements in advance. The Widnau Welawäag detective trail can also be completed by bicycle or scooter. These options offer alternatives to hiking for an active day out.
Bridges, church and local history
The border crossing and Wiesenrain Bridge area in Widnau is regarded as a place of historical remembrance of the Second World War. Wiesenrain Bridge is classified as a cantonal cultural property and opened on 25 May 1914. Its history as a bridge is closely connected with the historical significance of the border area.
Nöllen Bridge is also classified as a cantonal bridge for non-motorised traffic. The Catholic Church of St. Joseph was rebuilt in 1903–1904. Widnau was founded in 1883 as the last political corporation in the canton of St. Gallen. The young municipality’s history has been shaped by the dynamic economic and social changes of the 20th century. The bridges, church and founding of the municipality thus represent different aspects of local history.
Large events such as musicians’ gatherings and artists’ symposia take place in Widnau at regular intervals. There are also exhibitions featuring visual artists. Check the dates before your trip if you would like to combine your visit with an event.
Location and travel planning
Lustenau, the neighbouring Austrian municipality, can be reached via the Rhine bridge at the Wiesenrain customs office. If you would like to explore the border region beyond Widnau, Lustenau is a nearby destination to consider. For rail travel, you can use Heerbrugg station, which offers good connections to the SBB main line. Check the timetable and connections for your travel dates.
Discover more destinations: Altstätten, Au, Marbach, Oberriet, Rheineck, St. Margrethen, Diepoldsau, Balgach
Back to the main travel overview: Rhine Valley.
