Lakes around Altach, located in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg, offer access to diverse aquatic environments. The region features natural reserve lakes and is in proximity to one of Central Europe's largest lakes. Altach's natural landscape provides opportunities for outdoor activities centered around these water bodies. The area is characterized by its position near the Rhine Valley, with views extending to Lake Constance.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
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Many cycle paths, little traffic, interesting areas!
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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
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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
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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
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Unfortunately there was no water in the lake, so you could walk right through it
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Beautiful platform for bird watching and nature watching.
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It's definitely a beautiful lake when it's full to the brim. Unfortunately, it was so empty during our visit that we could only walk through it! But that was still nice 🤣👍
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Unfortunately the dam is no longer accessible at the moment, so the waterfall is best seen from a distance!!!
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The region around Altach offers diverse water bodies. Key highlights include Wichenstein Lake, a significant nature reserve, and the picturesque Staufensee Waterfall and Dam. Additionally, Altach is in close proximity to Lake Constance (Bodensee), one of Central Europe's largest lakes, offering extensive recreational opportunities.
Wichenstein Lake is a former clay pit transformed into a nature reserve of regional importance. It's recognized as an amphibian spawning area of national importance and, together with the adjacent "Grube Loo," forms a fen. Visitors can enjoy its tranquility, diverse plant and animal life, and an observation platform for bird and nature watching.
Yes, Lake Constance, readily accessible from Altach, is renowned for its excellent water quality and is ideal for swimming during the summer months, with temperatures reaching up to 26°C. Public lidos (bathing beaches) are available in lakeside towns along the Austrian shore. While Wichenstein Lake is a nature reserve, it is not primarily designated for swimming.
Many areas around the lakes are family-friendly. Wichenstein Lake, with its nature trails and observation platform, is suitable for families. The Staufensee Waterfall and Dam is also considered family-friendly. Lake Constance offers numerous activities like boat trips and cycling along its shores, which are great for families.
You can expect diverse natural features. Wichenstein Lake is a fen and amphibian spawning area, rich in biodiversity. The Alter Rhein Nature Trail offers clear water and opportunities to spot various animals and birds. Lake Constance provides breathtaking views, often with the Alps in the background, and is known for its high water quality.
Absolutely. The region offers numerous trails. For instance, you can find easy hikes around the Alter Rhein Nature Trail, such as the "Old Rhine – Alter Rhein Recreation Area loop from Altach." There are also various running trails, including longer routes around the Old Rhine recreation area. You can explore more options in the Hiking around Altach and Running Trails around Altach guides.
For expansive views of the Rhine Valley and Lake Constance, visit Gsohlalpe View of the Rhine Valley and Lake Constance. This viewpoint offers a stunning perspective of the major lake bordering Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Additionally, the Wichenstein Lake Observation Platform provides excellent opportunities for bird and nature watching within the Wichenstein Nature Reserve.
Lake Constance is a hub for various water sports. Besides swimming, popular activities include sailing, paddle-boarding, and yachting. The lake's excellent water quality and scenic surroundings make it an ideal destination for these activities, especially during the warmer months.
The summer months are ideal for swimming and water sports on Lake Constance, with water temperatures reaching up to 26°C. Spring and autumn offer pleasant conditions for hiking, cycling, and nature observation around Wichenstein Lake and the Alter Rhein Nature Trail, with vibrant flora and fauna. The observation platform at Wichenstein Lake is great for birdwatching year-round.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. You can cycle along the scenic shoreline of Lake Constance, enjoying breathtaking views. The area around Wichenstein Lake also offers opportunities for cycling, mountain biking, and gravel riding. The Alter Rhein Nature Trail is also suitable for cycling, though you may share paths with pedestrians.
While specific cafes directly on the shore of Wichenstein Lake are not highlighted, the Gsohlalpe Viewpoint, which offers views of Lake Constance, features an alpine hut that serves as a restaurant/pub. Lakeside towns along Lake Constance also provide various dining options.
Wichenstein Lake is easily accessible from Altach. It is located in the municipality of Oberriet, Switzerland. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and mountain biking around the lake, suggesting good accessibility for outdoor activities. Parking is generally available in the vicinity of such natural attractions, though specific details may vary.


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