16) Up and Down! From the Pfänder Peak down to the Rappenloch Canyon
- O Peregrino
- May 1, 2024
- 15 min read
Cuisine: German cuisine is diverse and regional. Famous dishes include bratwurst, schnitzel, and sauerkraut. Each region has its culinary specialties, reflecting the country's cultural diversity.
Our last hour has not yet struck, but with bitter sadness we counted down our last days with mom/grandma and our little adventures in Germany. So let's make the most of it. For various reasons, countless people strive to achieve greatness, whether in their career or in their social standing. A good opportunity to deceive themselves and in reality become unhappy.
We are no exception and want to climb, not in a professional or social sense, but with our legs. We want to climb the Pfänder. The unique panorama of Lake Constance and 240 Alpine peaks of Austria, Germany and Switzerland make Pfänder with the Elevation of 1.064m the most famous lookout point in the region.
Some Beyond Borders Facts about the Pfänder, delighted elaborated with consumption without remorse of three packs of paprika chips that were on offer at this time and with the help of Prof. Google:
Pfänder is a prominent mountain located in the western Austrian state of Vorarlberg, near the city of Bregenz, on the eastern shores of Lake Constance (Bodensee). It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lake, the surrounding Alpine regions, and even as far as Germany and Switzerland on clear days. The Pfänder has a rich history that spans centuries and is an important destination for locals and tourists alike. Here's a summary from its historical roots to the present day:
Historical Overview
Early History: The Pfänder region has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The mountain, due to its strategic location overlooking Lake Constance, was a natural lookout point for ancient settlements. Artifacts from the Celtic and Roman periods have been found in the surrounding areas, hinting at its long-standing importance in local trade and defense.
Medieval Period: During the Middle Ages, the Pfänder area became part of the Bishopric of Constance. It served as a vantage point for monitoring the lake and its surrounding lands. The development of Bregenz into a fortified town in the 13th century further solidified the Pfänder's importance in regional security.
19th Century Tourism: The 19th century marked the beginning of the Pfänder’s history as a tourist destination. With the advent of industrialization and the rise of leisure travel, people began to explore the natural beauty of the region. In 1884, a local entrepreneur built a small guesthouse on the mountain, marking the start of organized tourism.
20th Century Development: In 1927, the Pfänderbahn, a cable car system, was constructed to provide easier access to the summit, which significantly boosted its popularity. The cable car, initially a single carriage, has been modernized multiple times, with the current version offering a comfortable ride to the top with stunning views along the way.
World War II: During World War II, the Pfänder was less directly impacted by the conflict compared to other regions in Europe. However, like many areas in Austria, it experienced its share of hardship and economic difficulties.
Present Day
Today, Pfänder is a well-known tourist attraction, offering a range of activities for visitors:
Pfänderbahn Cable Car: The modernized cable car takes visitors from Bregenz to the summit in less than 10 minutes, making it a popular way to reach the top. The ride itself offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Hiking and Nature: The mountain is renowned for its extensive network of hiking and biking trails. There are several routes ranging from easy walks suitable for families to more challenging trails for seasoned hikers.
Wildlife Park: Near the summit, there is a small wildlife park where visitors can see native alpine animals, such as red deer, ibex, and marmots. This park is a popular spot for families and nature enthusiasts.
Panorama Restaurant and Viewing Platforms: At the summit, a panorama restaurant and several viewing platforms offer stunning views of Lake Constance and the Alps. This is an ideal spot for photography, relaxation, and enjoying regional cuisine.
Cultural Events: The Pfänder is often used for various cultural events, including concerts, outdoor theatre performances, and seasonal celebrations.
Winter Sports: In the winter, Pfänder is a modest ski area, suitable primarily for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. It's a great place for families and those looking for a less crowded alternative to larger alpine ski resorts.
Pfänder Today
Pfänder continues to thrive as a natural and cultural landmark, combining its historical significance with modern tourism amenities. It remains a symbol of the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Lake Constance region.
Visit the Pfänder Website (German and English)
A Journey Up the Pfänder: Jürgen and Huayna's Adventure
The sun rose gently over the city of Bregenz, painting the sky in shades of peach and gold. Jürgen, with his seasoned eyes crinkling at the corners, stood at the foot of the path leading up to the Pfänder Peak, a slight smile tugging at his lips. Beside him, Huayna—29 years young and full of boundless energy—glanced upwards at the green, forested path winding its way up the mountain. There was a silent understanding between them, a quiet joy in embarking on this father-son adventure.
The trail began with a soft, welcoming incline. Birds sang overhead, their melodies intertwining with the whispering leaves. Jürgen took a deep breath, filling his lungs with the crisp morning air, his heart brimming with anticipation. For every step Huayna took, bounding like a deer across rocks and roots, Jürgen matched with a more measured pace. The earth beneath their feet was firm, the scent of pine mingling with the distant promise of alpine flowers.
But as the path grew steeper, the first beads of sweat appeared on Jürgen's brow. His breathing deepened, the rhythm of his footsteps faltering ever so slightly. He pressed on, determined, but his legs began to feel the weight of the years, each step a reminder of journeys long past. Huayna, sensing his father's struggle, slowed his pace, turning back with an encouraging grin.
“Come on, Dad,” he called, the light of adventure dancing in his eyes. “We’re almost there!”
Jürgen chuckled, wiping his brow. “You know,” he replied with a twinkle in his eye, “the mountain has grown steeper since the last time I climbed it.”
They continued, and the path became narrower, the incline sharper. Jürgen’s breath grew heavier; his steps, though still steady, seemed to echo louder in the silence of the forest. He could feel his heart beating, not just from exertion but from a growing appreciation for the beauty around him and for the simple pleasure of walking side by side with his son. But there were moments when he had to stop, leaning against the rough bark of a pine, his hands resting on his knees.
Huayna paused, concern clouding his face. “We can take a break, Dad,” he offered softly, his voice carrying the unspoken bond of love and respect.
Jürgen shook his head, a smile breaking through despite his labored breathing. “No, no,” he
said, “I’ll catch my breath and keep going. I’m not letting a little mountain stand in the way of this moment.”
The climb grew more challenging as they neared the summit. Jürgen's legs felt like lead, and every breath came with an effort. There was a point where a rock underfoot gave way, and he stumbled, catching himself with a wince. Huayna was by his side in an instant, steadying him with a firm grip.
“Easy there,” Huayna said gently.
Jürgen laughed softly, the sound carrying a blend of weariness and determination. “I’ve faced tougher than this,” he replied, straightening. “Though I might need a good soak after we reach the top.”
With each step, the path revealed more of its wonders—wildflowers blooming in brilliant colors, deer grazing quietly in the distance, and the steady whisper of the wind that seemed to speak of secrets hidden within the forest. Jürgen’s heart swelled with a mix of fatigue and triumph. He was moving slower now, but he was moving, driven by the warmth of his son's presence and the promise of the view from the peak.
Finally, after what seemed like hours of determined ascent, the trees parted, and the summit opened up before them. The city of Bregenz lay below like a patchwork quilt, and the vast expanse of Lake Constance shimmered under the midday sun. Jürgen stood still for a moment, catching his breath, his chest heaving with the exertion. Huayna, standing beside him, let out a triumphant laugh.
“We did it!” he exclaimed, throwing an arm around his father's shoulders.
Jürgen smiled, the wrinkles around his eyes deepening with the expression of pure joy. “Yes, we did,” he replied, his voice soft and filled with emotion. “And it was worth every step.”
He felt the strain in his legs, the ache in his muscles, but none of it mattered. What mattered was the shared journey, the bond that grew stronger with every footstep on that steep path, and the quiet moments of laughter and struggle that would live in their hearts long after the hike was over. The Pfänder Peak stood tall and proud, a testament to the challenges faced and the simple beauty of a father and son walking together, side by side, toward the sunlit horizon.
Normally our story would end here, but on another, more moderate route back towards Bregenz, we met an older couple who were bravely hiking in the opposite direction to the Pfänderspitze, armed with hiking sticks.
A short conversation started, not only to exchange experiences, but also to take a little breather. The friendly couple have already travelled far around the world, including to Brazil and suggested we both get to know the Rappelloch Canyon, which is not too far from Bregenz. Ok, let's go there!
You don't believe what we found on the Pfänder Webcam...
Click to expand
Some Beyond Borders facts about the Rappenloch Canyon. Unfortunately, we already ate our three packets of paprika chips during the previous Pfänder fact check. But now, in an ascetic way, that is, foregoing pleasures and sensual enjoyment, we are still taking up the work with the help of Dr. Prof. Google, in the hope of passing some cultural knowledge and wisdom to our selfless and inquisitive readers.
Rappelloch Canyon: A Journey Through Time
Nestled deep within the heart of the Alps, the Rappelloch Canyon is a hidden gem known for its dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient forests. The canyon's history is as rich and varied as its landscape, shaped by both natural forces and human endeavors over millennia.
Geological Formation: The Birth of the Canyon
Rappelloch Canyon was formed millions of years ago during the last Ice Age, when massive glaciers carved through the limestone bedrock, leaving behind a deep, narrow gorge. Over time, the melting ice fed rivers that continued to erode the rock, creating the steep walls and narrow passages that define the canyon today. The constant interplay between water and rock has also resulted in a series of breathtaking waterfalls and pools, which have become a hallmark of the canyon's rugged beauty.
Ancient Inhabitants: The First Explorers
Archaeological evidence suggests that the canyon has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. Primitive tools and artifacts have been discovered in various caves and rock shelters within the canyon, pointing to a long history of human presence. These early inhabitants were likely hunter-gatherers who found refuge in the canyon's natural shelters and relied on its abundant resources, including freshwater fish, game, and wild berries.
Medieval Myths and Legends
During the Middle Ages, the Rappelloch Canyon was shrouded in myth and legend. Local folklore speaks of mysterious creatures that lurked within its depths, from water sprites to mischievous forest spirits. The most famous of these tales is that of the "Schwarze Hexe" or "Black Witch," a figure said to inhabit the darkest parts of the canyon and guard its hidden treasures. These legends made the canyon a place of both fear and fascination for the people of the surrounding villages.
The Age of Exploration: Mapping the Unknown
By the 18th century, curiosity about the natural world began to grow, and the Rappelloch Canyon attracted the attention of naturalists, geologists, and explorers. Early expeditions into the canyon were fraught with danger due to the treacherous terrain, but they brought back detailed maps, drawings, and notes on the canyon’s unique flora and fauna. This period marked the beginning of scientific interest in the canyon, which would continue to grow in the centuries that followed.
Modern Times: A Sanctuary of Nature
Today, the Rappelloch Canyon is a protected area, renowned for its biodiversity and natural beauty. It attracts hikers, climbers, and adventure enthusiasts from around the world. Ecologists and environmentalists work to preserve its unique ecosystem, which is home to rare species of plants and animals, including the elusive Alpine lynx and the rare Edelweiss flower.
The Rappelloch Canyon remains a place where nature reigns supreme, a living testament to the forces that have shaped it over millions of years, and a reminder of the deep, interwoven history of humans and the natural world.
If the cell phone virus did not spread like an epidemic from weak and empty minds right into the everyday lives of tender children, it would be only too heartbreaking if the careful mother, sitting on the edge of the bed in the late evening, telling her child stories about dark and evil witches with claws and terrifying large sharp teeth, when they kidnapped children and takes them to the forest to kill and eat them...well - all folktales, children's stories and... bedtime stories!
In relation to the Rappelloch Canyon it was interesting to search some stuff about the "Schwarze Hexe" Black Witch. And here we go:
"In the heart of the ancient canyon, where shadows stretch long and the wind whispers secrets through jagged cliffs, tales are told of the "Schwarze Hexe," or the "Black Witch." She is said to dwell in the darkest, most unreachable parts of the canyon, a place where sunlight fears to tread. Her presence is felt in the rustling of dry leaves, the chill that grips the air at dusk, and the eerie silence that falls over the canyon when night descends.
The legend says she was once a woman of great beauty and wisdom, a healer who lived on the fringes of a small village that lay near the canyon's mouth. But the villagers, suspicious of her knowledge of herbs and potions, began to whisper that she was in league with darker forces. When a series of misfortunes struck the village — crops failed, children fell ill, and the river ran dry — the whispers turned to accusations. The villagers blamed the healer, calling her a witch, and chased her into the depths of the canyon, believing that the darkness would swallow her whole.
But the woman did not perish. Instead, she embraced the shadows and the canyon's secrets, becoming one with the ancient spirits that haunted the place. It is said that she now guards the hidden treasures of the canyon — veins of precious metals, forgotten relics, and even ancient knowledge inscribed on stones deep within its crevices. Her form is often seen as a shadow flitting between the rocks, her laughter echoing like the cry of a raven in the cold night air.
Those who venture too close to her domain often find themselves lost, as if the canyon itself twists and turns at her will. Some say that the "Schwarze Hexe" will reveal herself only to those she deems worthy, offering them a glimpse of her treasures in exchange for a piece of their soul. Others claim that she has no interest in gold or jewels; she craves only secrets — the darker, the better. To those who dare to speak their deepest fears or confessions into the wind, she might just appear, her face obscured by a tangle of black hair, her eyes gleaming with an otherworldly light."
Many have tried to find her, to challenge her or bargain with her for the riches she guards. Few return. The ones who do come back speak of dreams filled with shadows, whispers that follow them even in the daylight, and a sense that something of them was left behind in the canyon's dark heart.
The "Black Witch" remains a mystery, a specter that haunts the dreams of those who hear her tale. The canyon is her kingdom, and its secrets are hers alone to keep. And so the legend grows, whispered around campfires by those who dare to camp near the edge, a tale of caution and wonder, of greed and curiosity, of the dark things that lie hidden just out of sight.
Our Rappelloch Canyon Story
The sunrays in the late afternoon kissed the rooftops of Dornbirn, a father and son set out on a journey that promised the quiet intimacy of nature. Jürgen, with his silver hair catching the soft afternoon sun, walked with a steady, confident pace born of years of experience. Beside him, Huayna moved with youthful energy, every step revealing his love for adventure, his face filled with quiet wonder at the unfolding day.
The path from Dornbirn to the Rappenloch Canyon wound like a thread through a tapestry of green. Mist clung to the trees, a soft veil that the sun began to lift as the two men made their way into the forest. The air was filled with the earthy scent of damp leaves, pine needles, and the whisper of a gentle breeze that danced among the branches.
Birdsong punctuated the silence, their melodies harmonizing with the rustling of leaves underfoot. Every so often, they would pause to catch their breath, not from exertion, but from the beauty that seemed to bloom with every step. Jürgen would point out the delicate wildflowers hiding among the undergrowth or the way a particular rock seemed to glow with an inner light. Huayna, in turn, marveled at his father's deep knowledge of the land, the way he seemed to carry the nature in his heart.
As they walked, the forest began to open up, revealing glimpses of the rugged beauty that lay ahead. The distant roar of rushing water grew louder, a siren song that pulled them closer to the canyon. The Rappenloch Canyon, with its towering rock faces and cascading waterfalls, unfolded before them like a secret garden long forgotten by time.
Jürgen and Huayna paused at the canyon's edge, the sight taking their breath away. The river below, wild and untamed, carved its way through the ancient stone with a force that spoke of ages past. Sunlight filtered down, creating a dance of light and shadow on the canyon walls, painting them in hues of gold, amber, and green.
They descended carefully, feeling the cool spray of the waterfalls on their skin, the ground beneath them slick and uneven. Jürgen moved with the surefootedness of someone who had walked these paths before, while Huayna, with his youthful exuberance, leaped from rock to rock, testing the limits of his balance. Laughter filled the air, echoing off the canyon walls, a joyful sound that felt as ancient and enduring as the rocks themselves.
At a quiet bend in the canyon, they stopped to rest. Jürgen unpacked a simple meal — bread, cheese, apples, and a flask of juice. They ate in companionable silence, listening to the river's music, feeling the sun warm their backs. Huayna, with a smile, handed his father a piece of apple, and Jürgen, with a twinkle in his eye, accepted it as if it were a priceless gift.
As they continued their journey, the path became more challenging, but they moved with a shared rhythm, a bond forged not just by blood but by the love of adventure, of discovery, and of each other. They spoke of everything and nothing, of dreams and memories, of places they had seen and places they still wished to explore.
When they finally reached the heart of the Rappenloch Canyon, the sun was beginning its descent, casting long shadows that stretched across the water. The canyon seemed to glow in the soft, golden light of late afternoon, a place where time stood still. Jürgen looked at Huayna, his eyes reflecting the quiet joy of the moment, and Huayna, with a grin, knew they would always carry this day with them.
And as they turned to make their way back to Dornbirn, the mountains whispered their secrets to them, promising more adventures yet to come.
As we mentioned above with a somewhat sad expression, our last wonderful and eventful days in Germany have begun. We cannot slow down the unstoppable endless flow of time, but we can use it to the last precious minute. So from now on we are making the final sprint:
This trip: By train from Friedrichshafen to Bregenz. From Bregenz main station, hiking up to the Pfänder Peak. From there, walk a circular path through the Alpine Wildlife Park. From the Pfänder Peak, hiking back to Bregenz main station, take the next train to Dornbirn. From Dornbirn main station, we walk quickly following the road parallel to the Rolls-Royce Museum to the Rappelloch. Walking the circular path through the Rappelloch Canyon. Back to the Rolls-Royce Museum, waiting hopeful for the bus, then back to Friedrichshafen by train, via Dornbirn and Bregenz.
Watch this spectacular movie documentary in full screen here!
Nearly finished this article, but we hold some space for legends of the Pfänder until you can watch the long awaited Breaking News:
Yes, the Pfänder, our mountain in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg, has several legends and stories associated with it. Situated near Bregenz and overlooking Lake Constance, the Pfänder is not only a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing but also rich in folklore.
Some Legends and Stories About the Pfänder:
The Pfänder Dragon: One of the most famous legends involves a dragon that once lived on the Pfänder. According to the story, the dragon terrorized the local villages, causing destruction and demanding sacrifices. A brave knight, driven by a desire to save the people and the love for a local maiden, decided to confront the dragon. After a fierce battle, the knight managed to slay the beast, bringing peace to the area. The dragon’s body is said to have fallen into Lake Constance, creating the distinctive fog that sometimes rolls in from the lake.
The Enchanted Spring: Another tale speaks of an enchanted spring located somewhere on the Pfänder’s slopes. It was believed that anyone who drank from this spring would gain or have their deepest wishes come true. However, the spring was protected by a spirit who only allowed the pure of heart to find it. Many are said to have searched for the spring, but it remains hidden to this day.
The Lost Treasure of the Pfänder: There are stories of a hidden treasure buried somewhere on the Pfänder. According to legend, during times of war or conflict, wealthy merchants or noble families would hide their valuables in secret locations around the mountain. Some believe that the treasure is still out there, waiting to be discovered by a lucky wanderer.
The Ghostly Musicians: A more recent legend speaks of a group of ghostly musicians who haunt the Pfänder at night. It is said that on certain evenings, the sounds of violins, flutes, and other instruments can be heard coming from the forest. These musicians are believed to be the spirits of a traveling band who met a tragic end on the mountain long ago.
And here they come, as always, baldly, uncensored and suitable for young people - our...
...don't forget to activate the subtitles in your language!
"He is richest who is content with the least, for content is the wealth of nature."
- Socrates
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