Lake Constance (Vorarlberg Shore)★★
Vorarlberg has only 28 km of Lake Constance shoreline—but they are well utilized. Between Bregenz in the north and Hard (mouth of the Bregenzer Ach) in the south, there are lidos, bike paths, nature reserves, and the Rhine Delta—the largest inland delta in Europe and one of the most important bird protection areas on the lake.
The Lake Constance Cycle Path (260 km around the entire lake through three countries) passes through Vorarlberg on one of the most beautiful stages: from Bregenz via Lochau to Hard and further into the Rhine Delta. Flat, paved, with a lake view.
The Vorarlberg shore is less touristy than Lindau (D) or Konstanz (D/CH)—but quieter, more natural, and with the Pfänder as a panoramic mountain directly on the lake.
💡 Tipp
Lake Constance shipping connects Bregenz with Lindau (D, 20 min., €7.80), Konstanz (D, 3 hrs., €18), and Rorschach (CH, 40 min., €12). Bicycles are allowed (€4). On warm summer days, the Bregenz Pipeline lido (free, west of the festival stage) is the hotspot.
Activities on the Lake
★★ Rheindelta & Bird Watching
The Rhine Delta (2,000 ha) is the largest inland delta in Central Europe and a Ramsar protected area. Over 330 bird species have been recorded here—including little egrets, little bitterns, and common terns. Observation towers on the Old Rhine and near Gaißau offer unobstructed views over reed belts and wet meadows. Best in the morning or evening, bring binoculars.
Freely accessible. Guided excursions through the Nature Conservation Association (€15, April–September).
★★ Lake Constance Cycle Path (Vorarlberg Stage)
The 28 km from Lochau via Bregenz and Hard to Gaißau in the Rhine Delta: flat, continuously paved, with a lake view and refreshment stops. Ideal as a half-day excursion. In Bregenz, rental bikes from €12/day.
★ Lidos
Bregenz Lido (Pipeline) — Large outdoor pool on the lakeshore, west of the festival stage. Large sunbathing lawn, jetty, beach bar. Free entry. May–September.
Hard Lido — Family-friendly lakeside pool with water slide, children's area, and beach volleyball. €5.50 (adults), €3 (children). May–September.
Lochau Lido — Quiet, natural section. Pebble beach, clear water. €4.50. Ideal for swimming without hustle and bustle.
★ Sailing Courses & Water Sports
Lake Constance is an excellent sailing area (but beware: the "Föhn" can suddenly arise). Sailing courses from €350/week at the Hard Sailing School. SUP rental in Bregenz and Hard: €15/hour. Canoe rental: €12/hour.
