Along the Lutz to Buchboden

The Lutz - Vorarlberg's last torrent Info/Facts: The Lutz is one of the last undeveloped mountain rivers in Vorarlberg. The course of the river from the source to Blons represents an impressive river landscape in the middle of the core zone of the Großes Walsertal Biosphere Park. With its large gravel areas, which change depending on the water level and dynamics of the river, its species-rich floodplain forests and the mostly clear water, the Lutz is a special feature of the river ecosystems in Vorarlberg. It rises in the rear Metzgertobel and flows for around 27 km through the entire Walsertal until it flows into the Ill near Ludesch. The Lutz is a defining feature of the entire landscape of the Großes Walsertal. Due to the largely intact habitats, the Lutz offers ideal conditions for a large number of specialized animal and plant species. The river's typical inhabitants include the brown trout and the grayling, which need clean and oxygen-rich water. Rare bird species such as the dipper and the kingfisher can also be found here, looking for food or building their nests along the river banks. The river banks are lined with alluvial forest areas that provide habitat and protection for insects, small mammals and amphibians. The nature around the Lutz offers nature enthusiasts numerous special features to observe, enjoy and marvel at. Protection and conservation: As part of the Großes Walsertal Biosphere Reserve, the Lutz River is under special protection. The biosphere reserve is committed to preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable use in harmony with nature. The Lutz remains unregulated in large parts of its course and is allowed to maintain its natural flow, which is a rare exception. In many rivers in the Alpine region, banks have been reinforced and river beds straightened, but in the Great Walsertal, emphasis is placed on renaturation and the protection of natural river structures. Tip for experiencing: To experience the Lutz and its wild beauty up close, a hike along the river bank is recommended. The sections between Sonntag and Bad Rothenbrunnen are particularly attractive. An ideal starting point is the village of Sonntag, from where various hiking trails lead to the Lutz. Another scenic highlight are the Kessi holes at the entrance to the Gadental. Here the water of the Lutz has dug itself spectacularly between the rocks. Guided tours in the biosphere reserve offer a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the ecological features, the flora and fauna, and the numerous projects in the biosphere reserve. At the end, you can stop for coffee and cake at the Gasthof Kreuz before taking the bus back to the Biosphärenpark.haus in Sonntag.