Litz

The Litz is a river in the Austrian province of Vorarlberg. It begins near the Alpe Fresch at about 1,800 metres above sea level, where seven springs feed its upper course. Part of its water also comes from the Langsee lake, which seeps underground before joining the river. Over centuries the Litz carved out the Silbertal valley, winding through it in a gentle curve. The Gaflunerbach, a six-and-a-half-kilometre stream from the Gaflunertal valley, flows into the Litz on its right bank. The river then flows past Silbertal, crosses the parishes of Bartholomäberg and Schruns, and finally meets the Ill near Schruns. The Litz carries more water than any other river in the Silbertal valley. Its clear, fast-flowing waters are fed by meltwater from the surrounding mountains. The river’s course is lined with gravel banks and small waterfalls where the terrain steepens. Walkers can follow paths along both sides of the Litz, crossing wooden footbridges that lead into side valleys. The river’s banks are lined with alders and willows, while higher slopes carry spruce and larch forests. A visitor finds a quiet upland landscape shaped by the Litz. The valley floor is wide enough for a single road and scattered farmsteads. Upstream, the river narrows between steep meadows where cattle graze in summer. Lower down, near Schruns, the valley opens and the Litz slows before joining the Ill. The air carries the scent of pine and the sound of rushing water. Paths lead to viewpoints where the river’s bends and the surrounding peaks can be seen.