Montafon

A sublime valley that spreads out for 39km into the far west reaches of Austria, Montafon has a carpet of wildflowers, flowing rivers and surrounding peaks that frame altitudinous views, its pinnacle being Piz Buin, the highest mountain in Vorarlberg, its iconic shape visible from both Austria and Switzerland. A scattering of mountain villages make up the populations of this region, with the main town being Schruns, and smaller municipalities of Vandans and Bartholomäberg which are accessed along the Silvretta high Alpine road, which also gives skiers passage to the ski regions.

For all its picturesque beauty and typical Alpine prettiness, it’s the people here that really make the place. Steeped in customs and traditions, the mountain inhabitants are warm-hearted and welcoming. Catch a village on a festival day and see the intricate costumes, made from black wool and decorative headdresses and feel part of local life when a friendly face offers you a Montafon delicacy or speeds past you with a grin on the piste.

It’s a place where Ernest Hemingway felt a connection, he found inspiration carried on the fresh air, solace amongst the strong personalities in the mountains, and soul-reviving exercise climbing and skiing the peaks. Such was its influence on a happy time of his life, he worked these mountain moments into some of his bestseller books. Today a bronze sculpture of Hemingway stands in the square of Schruns. For the everyday visitor, the mountains and villages of Montafon will bring you great joy, wrapped in reviving fresh air, scenic vistas and wholesome food sourced from just a few kilometres away. The components that make up the freedom of a happy and healthy stay.