Nagelfluhkette Nature Park

The Nagelfluhkette Nature Park lies where Vorarlberg meets the German Allgäu. It covers three chains of Nagelfluh ridges formed from river pebbles baked into rock. The park became Austria’s and Germany’s first cross-border nature park in 2008. Its name comes from the rock type: pebbles so tightly packed they resemble nails driven deep into stone. The ridges stretch across a landscape shaped by ancient rivers and glaciers. The park shelters rare wildlife such as black grouse and golden eagles. Apollo butterflies drift over alpine meadows rich in orchids and gentians. In winter, snow covers the ridges for snowshoe hikers and ski tourers. Summer brings guided hikes that explore the geology and flora. The AlpSeeHaus centre in Bühl/Immenstadt serves as a base for these activities. Visitors walk trails that climb through forests and open pastures. Views open across rolling ridges and distant valleys. Information boards explain the Nagelfluh rock and the park’s cross-border story. Themed walks focus on birds, butterflies or wildflowers according to season. Quiet spots let walkers watch golden eagles circle above the peaks.