Climbing in Montafon
Via Ferratas, Climbing Crags & Alpine Adventures in Vorarlberg
Montafon is a wonderfully varied destination for a climbing holiday in Austria. Around Genusshotel Vermala in St. Gallenkirch, alpine via ferratas, climbing crags, guided climbing tours and impressive summit adventures await beginners, families and experienced mountaineers.
With around 25 via ferratas, climbing crags in Latschau and Rifa-Partenen, as well as well-known routes such as the Madrisella, Hochjoch and Gauablickhöhle via ferratas and the via ferrata on the Silvretta reservoir dam, Montafon offers varied climbing experiences in Vorarlberg. After an active day, enjoy wellness, the Sky Pool,, saunas and truly excellent food at Genusshotel Vermala.
Guided Climbing Tours with BergePLUS
Guided Via Ferrata Tours in Montafon
As a Vermala guest, you can look forward to a selection of complimentary guided climbing tours with Montafon mountain guides each week as part of the BergePLUS programme. Depending on the programme, you will explore different via ferratas with experienced guides.
Supervised children’s programme: complimentary full-day activities for children aged 6 to 12. From hiking and slide adventures to the forest rope park, there is plenty to discover.
Madrisella Via Ferrata in Montafon
Access from Nova Stoba at the Versettlabahn mountain station: at an altitude of approximately 2,500 metres, breathtaking views await – particularly after reaching the summit of Madrisella via the new route on its northern slope. From this side, the mountain reveals its rugged and majestic form, with the Novatal clearly visible far below. The climbing community agrees: this is one of the most beautiful via ferratas in Vorarlberg. Time for a climbing adventure!
Hochjoch Via Ferrata in Silvretta Montafon
Two route options await via ferrata enthusiasts at Hochjoch. The demanding grade C route leads from Schwarzsee up the western face to the summit, while the easier grade A/B route follows the Hochalpila ridge and offers impressive views of the Rätikon, Silvretta and Verwall. Just below the summit cross, a 60-metre suspension bridge awaits, although it can also be bypassed. Ibex are often spotted in the area.
Gauablickhöhle Via Ferrata in the Gauertal
Via Ferrata with a Cave Passage
Experience an extraordinary via ferrata whose highlight is a spectacular natural cave. The view from the cave exit across the Gauertal is unforgettable.
The Gauablickhöhle via ferrata leads partly through an ancient natural cave and offers a truly unique adventure. Even on the approach, you are surrounded by the imposing rock faces of the Drusenfluh, Drei Türme and Sulzfluh. After climbing several rocky sections, you suddenly find yourself in front of a dark cave entrance. The route leads deep into the mountain before emerging into daylight again after approximately 350 metres. From there, several steep sections continue towards the summit of Rachenkopf.
St. Anton Waterfall Via Ferrata in Montafon
Thanks to its easy accessibility, the via ferrata above the village of St. Anton in Montafon is a popular destination across three seasons. After a short section through the forest, a stepped ladder leads upwards beside a rushing waterfall. A flatter section along the edge is followed by the crux, graded C/D, on a slightly overhanging wall. Two rope bridges offer spectacular views of the thundering water and can also be bypassed.
Silvretta Reservoir Dam Via Ferrata on the Bielerhöhe
This unique and relatively easy via ferrata in Vorarlberg is located directly on the Silvretta reservoir dam at the Bielerhöhe, surrounded by the region’s highest mountains. During the ascent of the almost vertical wall, scenic benches, rope bridges and a twelve-metre pendulum swing await. The swing can also be bypassed. After completing all grade A/B obstacles, you exit via a platform on the crest of the dam and enjoy magnificent views of Piz Buin.
Latschau Climbing Crag in Montafon
The Latschau climbing crag is located just a few minutes from the Latschau reservoir and is easy to reach. You can leave the route at any time if necessary. Another highlight is the impressive view of the mighty Zimba, known as the Matterhorn of Montafon, as you climb the steep rock faces under the guidance of an experienced instructor.
Rifa-Partenen Climbing Crag
Access could hardly be easier: from the car park on the right-hand side of the Tschambreu Tunnel, it takes no more than three minutes to reach the rocks at the Rifa climbing crag. The belayer can stand barefoot and comfortably on the grass, while a log cabin provides shelter, a barbecue area and a water feature. The main highlights, however, are the well-secured climbing routes, a practice via ferrata and, for the particularly courageous, the opportunity to abseil down the rock face.
Ascent of the Zimba in the Rätikon
The distinctive silhouette of the Zimba defines the outer Montafon. From the Heinrich-Hueter-Hütte, which is highly recommended for an overnight stay, the summit can be reached in approximately three to five hours. The ascent follows either the varied western ridge or, for experienced climbers, the more demanding eastern ridge. Neither route is a via ferrata. State-certified mountain guides can accompany you and help you reach this dream summit safely.
Classic western ridge: climbing length 500 metres | climbing grade UIAA 3+
Demanding eastern ridge: climbing length 500 metres | climbing grade UIAA 4+
Climbing Safety in Montafon
Depending on the route, climbing and via ferratas in Montafon lead into alpine terrain and require sure-footedness, a head for heights, suitable equipment and a realistic assessment of your abilities. Before every tour, check the weather, difficulty, approach, duration and current conditions.
For beginners, families and more demanding via ferratas, we recommend guided tours with experienced guides from the BergePLUS programme or Montafon mountain guides. This allows you to experience the via ferratas and climbing crags of Montafon more safely and comfortably while benefiting from valuable local knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions about Climbing in Montafon
Where can you go climbing in Montafon?
Montafon offers numerous via ferratas, climbing crags and alpine climbing routes. Popular destinations include the Madrisella via ferrata, Hochjoch via ferrata, Gauablickhöhle, the St. Anton waterfall via ferrata, the via ferrata on the Silvretta reservoir dam, as well as the climbing crags in Latschau and Rifa-Partenen.
You can also find all official via ferratas and climbing routes on our interactive tour map.
Are there via ferratas in Montafon for beginners?
Yes, Montafon also offers easier via ferratas and climbing crags that may be suitable for beginners, depending on their experience and supervision. Practice via ferratas are available at the Latschau and Rifa-Partenen climbing crags. Suitable equipment, sure-footedness, a head for heights and a realistic assessment of your abilities are essential.
Are guided climbing tours available in Montafon?
Yes, guided climbing and via ferrata tours are offered through the BergePLUS programme and by Montafon mountain guides. Participation in the BergePLUS programme is complimentary for guests of Genusshotel Vermala.
Where can I hire climbing equipment in Montafon?
Via ferrata equipment, including a climbing harness, helmet and via ferrata set, can be hired from Intersport Silvretta Montafon. Guests of Genusshotel Vermala receive a 10% discount on hire equipment when reserving online.
Is climbing in Montafon suitable for families?
Yes, depending on the route and level of experience, Montafon also offers climbing crags and easier climbing activities suitable for families. Guided tours and supervised programmes are particularly recommended when children are gaining their first climbing experience. The Golm forest rope park also offers plenty of playful adventure.
What equipment do you need for a via ferrata?
For a via ferrata, you need sturdy mountain boots, a helmet, climbing harness, via ferrata set, gloves, weather-appropriate clothing, sufficient drinks and experience in using the equipment. We recommend joining a guided tour if you are unsure.
Is Genusshotel Vermala a good base for climbing in Montafon?
Yes, Genusshotel Vermala in St. Gallenkirch is an excellent base for a climbing holiday in Montafon. Numerous via ferratas, climbing crags, mountain lifts and guided tours are within easy reach.
Can climbing be combined with wellness?
Yes, after a day of climbing, hotel guests can relax in the Montafon Nature SPA at Genusshotel Vermala, featuring the Sky Pool, saunas, relaxation rooms and wonderful mountain views.
