Smugglers' path – Rätikon adventure area

This tour is a true test of endurance: you hike in the footsteps of smugglers between Austria and Switzerland. From the beginning of the 19th century well into the 20th century, smuggling represented an important source of income for the local population, especially in Montafon. In nocturnal marches, smugglers transported salt, flour, tobacco or coffee, soap and toilet rolls, books, cowbells or even meat and furs across the borders.

Remember to pack some provisions and clothing adapted to the weather for the good eight-kilometer hike. The start is at the mountain restaurant Schafberg Hüsli in Gargellen. The first ascent leads you up a wide path towards the mountain station of the Kristallbahn.

Once at the top, you cross green meadows to the Antönier Joch at an altitude of 2,379 meters, where you stand on the border between Switzerland and Austria. The fantastic view rewards you for the steep ascent.

For the next section, sure-footedness is required: you hike along the ridge to the highest point of this tour. Ropes provide security on the narrow sections. You continue on the Swiss side and pass the beautiful Gafiersee, an idyllic spot for a scenic break.

Over scree fields, the path then leads you up again to the Gafierjoch. The numerous impressive viewpoints make the hike an unforgettable experience. You cross the border again and are back on Austrian soil. Past the reservoir, you hike back to the starting point. In the mountain restaurant, you can treat yourself on the sun terrace with a sweet Apfelschmarrn.

Finally, an interesting smuggler's tip: To confuse the customs officers and lead them astray, some of the border crossers nailed their shoe soles on backwards. Thus, the tracks in the snow pointed in exactly the opposite direction.