Nature tips Vorarlberg
Forest landscapes
Forests not only provide habitats for countless organisms but also resources for humans.
Vorarlberg is renowned for its impressive forest habitats. After all, one-third of the region is covered in woodland. A forest ecosystem is typically a complex community of organisms, distinguished by its unique vitality, stability, and diversity, all of which continuously undergo adaptation. It represents an interplay of soil, water, climate, location, and terrain, as well as numerous plant and animal species and microorganisms that create a “web of life.” These forests are not only home to familiar animals like red and roe deer, and foxes, but also to rare and protected species such as the Alpine Longhorn Beetle and the Capercaillie.
The forest landscape of Vorarlberg is extremely diverse and encompasses various types of woodlands. Many areas in Vorarlberg are characterised by a balanced mixed forest. In lower, sunny locations, beech mixed forests primarily dominate. In higher elevations, conifers such as spruce and silver fir are the main species found. In the valleys, Vorarlberg was once characterised by extensive floodplain forests. Nowadays, only isolated remnants of these ecologically valuable and highly dynamic floodplain ecosystems can be found along the rivers of Vorarlberg. A unique feature of the forest habitats in Vorarlberg is the “plenter forests,” which are predominantly found in the Lower Bregenzerwald. These sustainably managed forest structures provide an important habitat for numerous animal and plant species.
In terms of naturalness,
we examined 5,000 forests.
The best region of all
extends from the Arlberg to the Pfänder.
The complex network of trees, shrubs, plants, and animals creates a stable ecosystem that serves numerous functions. Forests not only provide habitats for countless organisms but also resources for humans. They help regulate the climate, protect against erosion and avalanches, and serve as important water reservoirs. At the same time, they are a valuable place for recreation for those living in or visiting the Vorarlberg region. Forest educational trails, nature reserves, and a variety of hiking paths invite visitors to experience the beauty and mystery of the woods.
