Nestled on a mountain ridge in Liechtenstein, this alpine village sits near Vaduz. Its ski slopes draw winter visitors, while hiking trails wind through the nearby peaks.
Triesenberg, the largest municipality in Liechtenstein, extends across mountain terrain at 884-1,000 meters above sea level. The town's 2,636 residents speak their distinct Walser dialect, passed down from 14th-century settlers. Walk through Alpine meadows on the Plattaspitz trail, watch alpacas graze at Alpakahof farm, or ski down Malbun's slopes in winter.
Getting to Triesenberg
Bus service #21 connects Vaduz Post to Triesenberg every 30 minutes, coordinating with bus #11 from Schaan. The main bus stop, Triesenberg Post, sits next to a small roundabout with a fountain. The town spreads across steep slopes, with paved roads connecting residential areas and gravel footpaths linking hiking routes.
Mountain Trails and Viewpoints
The Plattaspitz trail covers 9.3 kilometers with an elevation gain of 580 meters. Start at the Rizlina bus stop and follow numbered markers through Alpine meadows and pine forests to Wangerberg village. You'll pass drinking water fountains every 2-3 kilometers and wooden benches at major viewpoints. For a shorter walk, take the 3-kilometer circular route from the town center to the Maria Hilf Chapel viewpoint, where you can see across the Rhine Valley.
Winter Sports in Malbun
Ski between December and March on Malbun's 23 kilometers of slopes, ranging from 1,600 to 2,000 meters elevation. Three chairlifts serve the main runs, while two practice lifts operate near the village center. Begin at the practice slope if you're learning, or take the Hochegg lift to access red and black runs. You'll find the ski school and equipment rental shop next to the main parking area.
Local Food and Farms
Visit the Alpakahof farm in Wangerberg village to see their alpaca herd and browse their 24/7 self-service shop. Buy hand-knitted winter wear made from alpaca wool, local cheese, yogurt, and seasonal vegetables. Sleep in one of their heated tepees, equipped with beds and electricity.
The Walser Museum
Explore daily life from the past 200 years at the Walser Museum, housed in an 1800s farmhouse. Open Tuesday through Sunday (10:00-17:00), the museum displays farming tools, clothing, and household items across two floors. Watch a 25-minute multimedia presentation about the area's development, available in German, English, French, and Italian. The second floor houses wooden sculptures by local artist Rudolf Schadler.
The Walser Culture
The Walser people arrived in Triesenberg in the early 14th century. Their dialect differs significantly from the Alemannic German spoken elsewhere in Liechtenstein, and local schools still teach it today. Look for houses built in Walser style, with steep 45-degree roofs and carved wooden balconies - examples line the main street through town.
