There’s something truly magical about hiking in the Alps in autumn — the air is crisp, the crowds have thinned, and the landscapes are painted in warm shades of gold and orange. Our visit to Lünersee at the start of October was one of those hikes that stayed with us long after we returned home. Nestled high in the mountains of Vorarlberg, this turquoise alpine lake feels like a secret slice of paradise, tucked between rugged peaks and rolling pastures.
From easy lakeside trails to panoramic viewpoints that make you stop in your tracks, this place in Austria has a little bit of everything. And after exploring for an entire day, we even discovered the most breathtaking viewpoint over the Lünersee. Honestly, you don’t want to miss this one!
For us personally this was a very special place since it’s the first mountain that we climbed since we lost our second son Charles back in August.
This guide has everything you need to make the most of your Lünersee adventure — including how to get there, the best trails, and exactly where to go for that picture-perfect view!
How to Get to Lünersee in Vorarlberg
Reaching Lünersee is surprisingly easy. The lake is tucked away in the Brandnertal Valley in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg, close to the border with Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The most convenient way to get there is by car, which gives you the freedom to arrive early, beat the crowds, and explore the area at your own pace.
🚗 Rent a car by using SunnyCars. There’s never any hidden costs with them and free cancellation up to 1 hour before rental start. Their price is transparent and everything is included.
The closest town is Brand, a charming alpine village about 1.5 hours from Innsbruck, 2 hours from Zurich, or 2.5 hours from Munich. From Brand, it’s a short 15-minute drive up a winding mountain road to the Lünerseebahn cable car station, where you’ll find a large parking area (paid).
From there, you have two options:
- Take the Lünerseebahn cable car – This quick and scenic ride whisks you up the mountainside in just 5 minutes, dropping you right at the lake’s edge and saving you a steep 400 m (1,312 ft) climb.
- Hike up from the valley – If you’re up for a challenge, you can skip the cable car and hike up the trail starting at the valley station. This option takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and offers beautiful views along the way.
We recommend taking the cable car up to maximize your time around the lake — especially if you’re planning to explore different trails. The first cable car typically runs around 8am in summer and early autumn, so aim to arrive early to catch the morning light over Lünersee.
Best Time to Visit Lünersee
For most hikers, the ideal season runs from late June to early October, when the trails are snow-free, the cable car is operating, and the alpine meadows are at their most beautiful.
We visited at the start of October, and it was honestly the perfect choice. The summer crowds were gone, the air was crisp and clear, and the golden autumn colors added an extra layer of magic to the scenery. Early October is also one of the best times for photography — the lake’s turquoise water contrasts beautifully with the warm tones of the surrounding mountains.
If you’re planning to hike, keep in mind that snow can linger on the trails well into June, especially after a heavy winter. By mid-October, weather conditions can change quickly, and the Lünerseebahn cable car usually closes for the season around this time. Always check trail and lift updates before your trip.
Best Hikes at Lünersee – Trails & Viewpoints You Can’t Miss
One of the reasons Lünersee is such a special place is that it offers something for every kind of hiker — from easy scenic walks to more challenging alpine adventures. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll with stunning views or a summit experience high above the lake, these two hikes are the absolute highlights.
And the best part is that both hikes can be done in a single day! And to top it off have a delicious meal at the Douglass Hütte. They have a huge terrace, fast service and a small playground for children with a slide and some swings.
1. Circular Trail Around Lünersee
Distance – 6.5 km (4 mi)
Elevation Gain – 50 m (492 ft)
Duration – 2 – 2.5 hours
Route Type – Circular Trail
Difficulty – Easy
Starting Point – Douglas Hütte
End Point – Douglas Hütte
If it’s your first time visiting Lünersee, the circular trail is a must-do. Starting right at the cable car station, this well-marked path loops around the entire lake, offering changing perspectives of the turquoise water and the dramatic peaks of the Rätikon mountain range. The trail is never too steep, making it perfect for beginners, families, or anyone simply looking to soak up the scenery at a relaxed pace.
We especially loved doing this hike in the early morning — the lake was mirror-still, the light was soft, and the reflections of the surrounding peaks were breathtaking. There are plenty of benches and grassy spots along the way, so bring a snack or picnic and take your time.
💡TIP – Make sure to pause at the far end of the lake, where you’ll find the best viewpoint of the entire circuit — a spot where Lünersee curves beneath a dramatic backdrop of rugged limestone cliffs. It’s an epic photo stop and one of the most beautiful alpine views in Vorarlberg.
2. Hike to Schafgafall – The best viewpoint over the Lünersee
Distance – 2.5km
Elevation Gain – 350m
Duration – 2.5 hours
Difficulty – Moderate
Route Type – Out & back
Starting Point – Douglas Hütte
End Point – Douglas Hütte
If you’re craving a bit more adventure, the hike to Schafgafall (2,445 m) is the perfect extension to your Lünersee visit. The trail starts near the Douglasshütte mountain hut and climbs steadily up through alpine meadows and rocky switchbacks, rewarding you with sweeping views over the entire lake and the jagged peaks of the Rätikon Alps.
The final section is steeper and more rugged, but once you reach the summit, you’ll be standing high above Lünersee with a 360° panorama that’s nothing short of spectacular. On clear days, you can even spot the peaks stretching into Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
💡 TIP – This hike is best done in the morning, especially in autumn when daylight hours are shorter. And don’t forget sturdy hiking boots — the upper section is rocky and can be slippery after rain!
What to Pack for Hiking at Lünersee
Sturdy hiking boots – Essential, especially if you’re doing the Schafgafall trail where the terrain gets rocky and uneven.
Layered clothing – A breathable base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof or windproof jacket are ideal.
Daypack – A comfortable, lightweight backpack (20–30 L) with enough room for snacks, water, and extra layers.
Water & snacks – Bring at least 1.5–2 L of water per person and energy-boosting snacks like nuts, fruit, or sandwiches. If you start with the Schafgafall hike and then do the circular trail you’ll only end up back at the Douglas Hütte at the end of the circular trail and there are no other mountain huts close by.
Sun protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are must-haves — the alpine sun can be surprisingly strong.
Trekking poles (optional) – Helpful for the steeper sections of the Schafgafall hike or if you’re not used to elevation gain.
Camera or phone – You’ll definitely want to capture the views — especially from that secret viewpoint overlooking the lake.
Where to Stay Near Lünersee
We based ourselves at Hotel Lech Arlberg, a beautiful alpine retreat that perfectly blends cozy mountain charm with modern comfort. Located in the heart of Lech, this hotel made an ideal base for our hiking adventures. After long days on the trail, we loved coming back to its welcoming atmosphere, relaxing in the wellness area, and enjoying hearty Austrian meals prepared with local ingredients.
The location is also a big plus — from here, you can easily reach Lünersee by car in around an hour, as well as explore other scenic spots in the Arlberg and Brandnertal regions. Whether you’re planning multiple hikes or simply want a comfortable place to unwind with mountain views from your balcony, Hotel Lech Arlberg is a fantastic choice!
Alternative options: If you prefer to stay even closer to Lünersee, you’ll also find charming guesthouses and alpine lodges in the town of Brand, which is just a short drive from the cable car station. These are a great option if you want to start your hike as early as possible.
Hiking at Lünersee with a toddler
Exploring Lünersee with a toddler is not only possible — it’s an incredible family adventure. The trails are scenic, the terrain is manageable in many places, and there’s plenty to keep little explorers entertained along the way. With a bit of planning and the right gear, this alpine day out can be one of the most memorable experiences of your trip.
The circular trail around the lake is by far the best option if you’re hiking with a toddler. It’s relatively easy (about 6.5 km / 4 mi with 150 m / 492 ft elevation gain) and the well-maintained path means you can go at your child’s pace, stopping for snack breaks or playtime whenever you need. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of open spaces where toddlers can stretch their legs safely.
🎒 We did this hike with César in our Thule child carrier, and it honestly made hiking with him so much easier. We’ve used it on quite a few mountain trails now, and I really like how easy it is to adjust and how well it protects him from the sun, wind, and the occasional rain shower.
If you have any questions about how to visit Vorarlberg or if you want to share your experience, comment below!
More information on the Vorarlberg region in Austria
How to Hike to Körbersee in Vorarlberg – Everything You Need to Know
Gehrengrat Ridge Hike – Epic Trail from Formarinsee to Spullersee in Vorarlberg
Hiking at Lünersee – Complete Guide to Vorarlberg’s Most Beautiful Alpine Lake
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Hi! We’re Charlotte, Christof & César!
Armed with our cameras & drone we’re always on the lookout for the next adventure!
We’ve been traveling together since 2020 and the best adventures are yet to come!
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