Lakes around Mäder offer diverse aquatic environments within the Rhine Valley. The region features both natural bodies of water and purpose-built recreational lakes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Mäder is situated in Vorarlberg, Austria, with access to various lake types, including former gravel pits and sections of the Old Rhine. These areas serve as local recreation zones, supporting both nature conservation and public access.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Mäder.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Many cycle paths, little traffic, interesting areas!
0
0
Wichenstein Nature Reserve, Oberriet The extensive Wichenstein Nature Reserve, with its biotope and set against the backdrop of an imposing limestone cliff, is an important nesting site for forest, hedge, and water birds. This wetland also provides a habitat for many insects, frogs, and amphibians. Wichenstein, with its over 20 hectares of land, is considered a reserve of supra-regional importance. It offers a place of peace and relaxation. A fire pit is located in the immediate vicinity of the pond. Text / Source: Municipality of Oberriet https://www.oberriet.ch/natur/7484
13
3
Wichenstein Nature Reserve, Oberriet The extensive Wichenstein Nature Reserve, with its biotope and set against the backdrop of an imposing limestone cliff, is an important nesting site for forest, hedge, and water birds. This wetland also provides a habitat for many insects, frogs, and amphibians. Wichenstein, with its over 20 hectares of land, is considered a reserve of supra-regional importance. It offers a place of peace and relaxation. A fire pit is located in the immediate vicinity of the pond. Text / Source: Municipality of Oberriet https://www.oberriet.ch/natur/7484
14
0
Wichensteiner See, Oberriet The Wichensteiner See is located in the municipality of Oberriet at the eastern foot of the Semelenberg. A clay pit operated on the area of the present lake from 1830 to 1972. The lake lies at an elevation of 420 meters above sea level and has a maximum depth of approximately 5.5 meters. It is divided into a smaller northern basin and a larger southern basin. The area was acquired by the municipality of Oberriet in 1976 and declared a nature reserve in 1982. East of the lake lies the "Grube Loo" (Loo Pit) – also a former clay pit – which, together with the Wichensteiner See, is a fen of regional importance and an amphibian spawning area of national importance. The lake is fed, in addition to underground springs, by the Wichensteinerbach stream, which drains the northern foot of the Semelenberg. The outflow structure leads into the Aubach stream. Text / Source: Canton of St. Gallen, Office for Environment and Energy https://www.sg.ch/content/dam/sgch/umwelt-natur/wasser/seen-und-weiher/02-01--gew%C3%A4sserqualit%C3%A4t-seen/kleinseen-und-weiher/Wichtensteiner%20See%20Oberriet.pdf
15
0
Beautiful platform for bird watching and nature watching.
8
0
Beautiful lake near a great raised moor.
4
1
The wide, lovely hilly landscape near the Lower Gäbris invites you to linger. The moor lake lies like a pearl in the peaceful landscape with panoramic views of the Alps.
2
0
A small beautiful lake with benches and a nice barbecue area
4
0
The region around Mäder features a variety of aquatic environments, including natural lakes, former gravel pits that have transformed into recreational lakes, and sections of the Old Rhine. These areas serve as local recreation zones, offering diverse experiences from quiet nature reserves to active swimming facilities.
Yes, the Erholungszentrum Rheinauen in Hohenems/Altach is a major regional attraction and one of the largest outdoor swimming facilities in Western Austria. It features a 400-meter arm of the Old Rhine, sports pools, family pools with slides, and extensive recreational facilities. Another popular option is the Paspels-Seen in Rankweil, known for its clear groundwater lakes and family-friendly amenities.
Several lakes are great for families. The Gäbrisseeli offers a circular route, benches, and a fireplace, making it a pleasant spot for a family outing. The Forstseeli is also family-friendly with a fire pit. For swimming, the Erholungszentrum Rheinauen has dedicated family pools with slides and a toddlers' pool, while the Paspels-Seen provides playgrounds and excellent water quality.
Yes, the Wichenstein Lake is a natural monument and a nature reserve, providing a habitat for various wildlife and offering a quiet place to visit. The Paspels-Seen are also situated within a sensitive nature reserve, encouraging visitors to be mindful of the flora and fauna. The Alter Rhein Nature Trail is another excellent spot for observing clear water and discovering animals and birds.
Absolutely. The region offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various mountain hikes, gravel biking routes, and road cycling routes that pass by or lead to the lakes. For instance, a paved walking path leads around the Paspels-Seen, and the Gäbrisseeli has a circular route.
The main bathing season for facilities like the Erholungszentrum Rheinauen typically runs from early May until mid-September. During these months, the weather is generally warm enough for swimming, and amenities are fully operational. For general lake visits and walks, spring and autumn also offer pleasant conditions with fewer crowds.
Yes, the Gäbrisseeli is an idyllic bog lake with a circular route, benches, and a fireplace, offering fantastic views towards Lake Constance and the Prealps. The Forstseeli also features a fire pit, making it ideal for a lunch break during a hike. For bird and nature watching, the Wichenstein Lake Observation Platform is recommended.
The Paspels-Seen in Rankweil offers free admission, making it a popular and accessible bathing spot for locals and visitors. For the Erholungszentrum Rheinauen, while parking is free, there is typically an entrance fee for the facility itself.
The Erholungszentrum Rheinauen offers free parking. For the Paspels-Seen, due to limited parking, arrival by bicycle or public transport is recommended. Generally, for lakes further afield, checking local public transport schedules or planning bicycle routes is advisable.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the secluded setting and fire pit at Forstseeli, the idyllic atmosphere and views at Gäbrisseeli, and the quiet, natural environment of Wichenstein Lake. The excellent water quality and family-friendly facilities at places like the Paspels-Seen and Erholungszentrum Rheinauen are also highly valued.
While swimming is generally a summer activity, some lakes like Forstseeli are also worth seeing in winter. Depending on snow depth, snowshoes might be worthwhile for accessing trails around the lakes. Always check local conditions and safety guidelines before venturing out in winter.


Still not found your perfect lake around Mäder? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.