Best waterfalls around Laterns are found in a picturesque valley in Vorarlberg, Austria, offering several scenic waterfalls and gorges. This region is characterized by its integration of water features with lush natural landscapes. Accessible hiking trails provide opportunities to explore these natural wonders. The area showcases how water has sculpted the landscape over millennia.
Last updated: October 4, 2026
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The dam at Staufensee forms the northern end of the lake and is a striking structure on the hike through the Rappenloch Gorge. Directly below the dam, the water plunges as an artificial waterfall into the Dornbirner Ach, creating an impressive natural spectacle. The reservoir itself was almost empty, which could be due to the construction workers at the new hydroelectric power plant, at the entrance to the Apploch Gorge.
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The waterfall at the entrance to the Rappenloch Gorge is one of the first highlights of the hike. It forms where the Dornbirner Ach plunges into the narrow gorge over a weir or dam and offers an impressive natural spectacle, especially after rain or during the snowmelt. From the viewing platform and the path above, you have a particularly good view of the approximately 20-meter-deep waterfall.
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Very beautiful waterfall in the gorge.
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Already visible from the Rattenloch Stadl.
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The waterfall is formed by the overflow of the Staufensee reservoir. The reservoir currently has very little water. The weir was recrossed. The path is accessible on the right side (coming from the Rappenloch Gorge).
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Right at the beginning of the Rappenloch Gorge there are beautiful views of the Dornbirner Ache with its waterfalls.
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The Bürser Gorge was formed by the interplay of water and ice after the retreat of the glaciers about 10,000 years ago. The Alvierbach stream created a spectacular, almost jungle-like landscape with moss-covered rocks and a rich flora.
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The waterfall was created by a dam. It's still very impressive.
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Visitors frequently enjoy the Bürserschlucht Trail, known for its jungle-like environment and impressive waterfall. Another favorite is the Rappenloch Gorge, which offers cool temperatures and interesting rock formations, merging seamlessly into the Alploch. The Waterfall at the Entrance to the Gorge is also highly regarded for its striking beauty and the play of colors in the sunlight.
Yes, the Örfla Gorge offers a family-friendly hiking experience, with trails following the Emmebach stream. It's accessible from various points, including a family-friendly starting point at the swimming pool in Riebe. The Rappenloch Gorge and Staufensee Waterfall and Dam are also categorized as family-friendly.
The region is rich in natural beauty, featuring deep gorges carved by streams like the Alvierbach and Frutz river, lush moss-covered rocks, diverse flora, and impressive rock formations. You'll encounter powerful waterfalls, serene forest cascades, and picturesque lakes like the Staufensee. The landscape showcases how water has sculpted the terrain over millennia.
The lush natural landscapes and accessible hiking trails are generally best enjoyed during warmer months when the paths are clear and the water flow is robust. The Rappenloch Gorge is particularly noted for its cool temperatures on hot days, making it an ideal escape during summer.
Absolutely. Many waterfalls and gorges in Laterns are integrated with hiking trails. For instance, the Bürserschlucht Trail offers varied natural paths, steps, and wooden bridges. The Örfla Gorge also features an easy gorge trail with numerous extension options. You can find more hiking routes in the area on the Laterns hiking guide.
Beyond exploring the waterfalls and gorges, the Laterns area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, mountain biking trails, and general cycling tours that allow you to experience the region's diverse landscapes.
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and the immersive experience of the gorges. They appreciate the varied paths, the cool temperatures on hot days, and the impressive sights like the play of colors in the water drops at the Waterfall at the Entrance to the Gorge. The unique geological formations and the feeling of being in a 'jungle-like' environment are also highlights.
The Bürserschlucht Trail is wonderfully varied but can be challenging in places, requiring sure-footedness. It's not suitable for strollers. However, there are opportunities to get close to the water and cool off, and even spots for grilling along the bank.
Yes, several locations offer excellent viewpoints. For example, the Bürserschlucht Trail leads steeply uphill through the forest to a viewpoint at around 800m, providing great views over the Brandnertal. The Rappenloch Gorge and Örfla Gorge also feature scenic viewpoints.
The gorges in the Laterns region, such as the Bürserschlucht, were formed by the powerful interplay of water and ice after the retreat of glaciers approximately 10,000 years ago. Streams like the Alvierbach have continuously carved through the landscape, creating the spectacular and unique rock formations seen today.
The Staufensee Waterfall and Dam is picturesquely situated between the Rappenloch Gorge and Alploch/Kirchle, making it part of a larger network of accessible natural attractions. It is categorized as family-friendly, suggesting relatively easy access.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Laterns: