This small Liechtenstein town sits between Austria and Switzerland, with mountains framing its preserved old center and riverside paths. A key transit point in the Alps.
Ruggell, Liechtenstein’s northernmost village, borders Switzerland and Austria near the Rhine River. Flat fields stretch across the landscape, interrupted by the Ruggeller Riet nature reserve where peat soil supports rare plants. In late spring, Siberian irises bloom in bright clusters across the wetlands. You can walk along the riverbanks, visit St. Fridolin’s Church with its medieval stone walls, or rent a bicycle to explore farm roads. Local events like the farmers breakfast at Bangshof let you taste fresh cheese and bread made by nearby families.
Ruggeller Riet Nature Reserve
This 90-hectare wetland shelters plants like peat moss and moor grass, along with birds such as gray herons and lapwings. Between May and June, Siberian irises bloom in dense patches, turning sections of the reserve blue. Three marked trails take you past ponds, hedgerows, and old drainage canals once used by farmers. Near the Rhine, a restored canal area includes picnic tables and a barbecue spot shaded by willow trees. Gravel paths along the river connect to bike routes leading toward Austrian villages like Feldkirch and Swiss towns like Haag.
St. Fridolin’s Church and Local History
St. Fridolin’s Church, built in the 12th century, stands as one of Liechtenstein’s oldest surviving structures. Its thick stone walls and narrow windows reflect Gothic design changes made during the 15th century. Archaeologists have found farming tools and pottery fragments nearby, evidence of settlements dating back 1,500 years. The church still holds weekly services and hosts choir performances during summer festivals. Inside, a small exhibit details how early residents used the Rhine’s floodplains to grow crops like wheat and barley.
Cycling, Sports, and River Trails
Ruggell’s flat geography makes it easy to bike along the Rhine or follow routes into neighboring countries. Rent a bicycle at the village center to explore trails like the 12-kilometer Liechtenstein-Swiss border path. The local football club, FC Ruggell, plays weekend matches at Sportplatz Ruggell from March to November. In winter, the sports hall hosts indoor tennis tournaments and gymnastics classes. Joggers frequent the gravel paths beside the river, which stay dry even after heavy rains due to drainage systems installed in the 1990s.
Peat Harvesting and Seasonal Events
Decades ago, villagers dug peat from the Ruggeller Riet to heat their homes—a practice remembered through annual festivals. In September, volunteers demonstrate traditional peat-cutting methods using antique tools. The Bangshof farm serves breakfast dishes like smoked ham and rye bread from 7:00 AM every Saturday. During June, guided walks in the nature reserve focus on identifying wildflowers and migratory birds. Smaller gatherings, like the October craft market, feature woodcarvings and wool sweaters made by local artisans.
Getting to Ruggell and Visitor Tips
The closest major airport is in Zurich, a 90-minute drive away. Trains from Zurich stop in Sargans or Buchs SG, where you can take Bus 11 to Ruggell’s post office square. Crime rates are low, but keep passports secure when hiking in remote areas. For lodging, consider Gasthof Löwen for budget rooms or Hofkellerei der Fürstlichen Weinbau for vineyard views. Check the Ruggell municipality’s event calendar online before visiting—peak seasons for hiking and festivals run from May to September.
