Lochau
· AT

Lochau

Lochau, Vorarlberg, Austria

Discover Lochau: A Vorarlberg Gem on the Shores of Lake Constance Nestled on the sun-drenched shores of Lake Constance, Lochau in Vorarlberg, Austria, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and rec…

#Lake#Mountainous#Scenic Views#Outdoor Activities#Historic Sites
1/2
Stay & flyThings to doVideosPracticalGuide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Lochau.

Top Hotels in Lochau

Top Flights to Lochau

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Lochau.

Tours

Pfänderbahn Cable Car Ride

Take a scenic cable car journey up to the Pfänder mountain, offering panoramic views of Lake Constance and the surrounding Alps.

Shopping

Hofladen Sutterlüty

This popular local store offers a range of organic and locally sourced products.

Outdoor

Lake Constance Boat Tour

Explore the beautiful Lake Constance on a guided boat tour, and enjoy the serene landscapes and historical landmarks on the shorelines.

Bregenz Forest Hiking

A wonderful area for hiking with trails suitable for all levels. It offers an opportunity to experience the nature and fresh air of the Vorarlberg region.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Lochau.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
Not Available
Languages
German, German
Average weather
Lochau
Jan
snow
3°-3°
Feb
cold
5°-2°
Mar
cloud
10°1°
Apr
rain
14°4°
May
cloud
19°8°
Jun
sun
23°12°
Jul
sun
25°14°
Aug
sun
24°14°
Sep
cloud
20°11°
Oct
rain
14°6°
Nov
cloud
8°2°
Dec
snow
4°-1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Lochau.

What people love

Lochau, located in Vorarlberg, Austria, offers a charming and picturesque setting with several notable advantages for travelers:

  1. Scenic Beauty: Lochau is situated on the shores of Lake Constance, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The area is known for its natural beauty, making it a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

  2. Outdoor Activities: The region around Lochau offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports on Lake Constance. Visitors can explore the beautiful landscapes, enjoy scenic walks, or rent a boat to explore the lake.

  3. Cultural Attractions: Lochau is located near several historic sites and cultural attractions, including the nearby town of Bregenz with its famous Bregenz Festival and the impressive Bregenz Art Museum. Visitors can also explore the charming village of Lochau itself, with its traditional architecture and local shops.

  4. Gastronomy: Vorarlberg is known for its delicious cuisine, and visitors to Lochau can enjoy traditional Austrian dishes as well as international cuisine in local restaurants and cafes. The region is also famous for its cheese, so be sure to try some local varieties.

  5. Accessibility: Lochau is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with good connections to nearby cities such as Bregenz and Dornbirn. It is also a convenient base for exploring the wider Lake Constance region and the neighboring countries of Germany and Switzerland.

Overall, Lochau offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and culinary delights, making it a delightful destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and enjoyable holiday.

What to know

Lochau, a small town in Vorarlberg, Austria, may not be as widely known or visited as other tourist destinations, but for those considering a trip, here are some potential cons to keep in mind:

  1. Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Lochau is a small town, so it might not have the extensive tourist infrastructure that larger cities or popular tourist destinations offer. This could mean fewer hotel and dining options, as well as limited tourist services.

  2. Seasonal Limitations: Depending on the time of year, some attractions or activities might be unavailable. For example, if you're interested in outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing, you would need to visit during the appropriate season.

  3. Transportation: While Lochau is accessible by public transport, the options may not be as frequent or convenient as in larger cities. This might require more planning to get around or to explore nearby attractions.

  4. Language Barrier: English may not be as widely spoken as in more tourist-centric areas, which could pose a challenge for travelers who do not speak German.

  5. Limited Nightlife and Entertainment: If you're looking for vibrant nightlife or entertainment options, Lochau might not meet your expectations as it is a quieter, more rural area.

Each of these points may vary based on individual preferences and expectations, but they are factors to consider when planning a trip to Lochau.

Lochau is a picturesque municipality located in the district of Bregenz in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg. While it may not be as widely recognized as some larger cities, it has a rich history and is a notable part of the region.

Historical Overview

  1. Early History:

    • The area around Lochau has been settled since prehistoric times, as evidenced by archaeological finds. The strategic location near Lake Constance made it an attractive spot for early settlers.

  2. Middle Ages:

    • Lochau came under the rule of various noble families throughout the Middle Ages. The region was part of the Holy Roman Empire, and like much of Vorarlberg, it was influenced by the shifting allegiances and conflicts of the time.

  3. Modern History:

    • In the 19th century, Lochau, along with the rest of Vorarlberg, was affected by the Napoleonic Wars. The area came under Bavarian control for a period before being returned to Austrian rule.
    • In 1861, Vorarlberg was granted its own provincial parliament, which marked a significant step in regional self-governance.

  4. 20th Century:

    • During World War I and II, Lochau, like many parts of Austria, faced economic and social challenges. The aftermath of the wars led to significant changes in the political landscape of Austria.
    • After World War II, Lochau became part of the French occupation zone in Austria.

  5. Recent Developments:

    • In recent decades, Lochau has developed as a residential area and a tourist destination due to its scenic location on Lake Constance and proximity to the city of Bregenz.

Significant Landmarks

  1. Pfarrkirche St. Nikolaus:

    • The parish church of St. Nicholas is an important religious and historical site in Lochau. It features architectural elements from various periods due to renovations and restorations over the centuries.

  2. Lochau Castle Ruins:

    • The ruins of Lochau Castle are a testament to the area's medieval past. While not much remains today, they are a point of historical interest.

  3. Lake Constance:

    • Although not unique to Lochau, the town's location on the shores of Lake Constance is a defining feature. The lake is a significant natural landmark and plays a central role in the town’s tourism and recreation.

  4. Bodensee-Rundwanderweg:

    • This is a popular walking and cycling path that circles Lake Constance, offering stunning views and access to various attractions in and around Lochau.

Notable Figures

  • Local Leaders and Citizens:
    • While specific historical figures from Lochau may not be widely documented, the town's development has been shaped by local leaders and the active participation of its residents throughout its history.

As with many small towns, the detailed historical records may not be as extensive as those of larger cities, but Lochau's charm lies in its natural beauty and the subtle historical footprints left by its past.