Local Alpine Pastures

Hittisau, located in the Bregenzerwald region of Vorarlberg, is renowned for its deep-rooted alpine dairy farming traditions. The village holds the distinction of having over 100 individual alps, making it a unique destination for those interested in traditional Alpine agriculture. The local culture is heavily influenced by cheese production, particularly hard cheese, which became a primary income source around 1700 due to climate changes that reduced grain farming.

Visitors can explore the Alpsennereimuseum, a historic Alpine dairy kitchen that showcases the region’s cheesemaking heritage. The museum features approximately 80 exhibits detailing milk processing and cheese production methods from 150 years ago. Guided tours, which last about an hour, allow visitors to watch films on current methods, learn from master cheesemakers, and participate in cheese-tasting sessions. The museum is centrally located in Hittisau and can be visited by appointment.

For those interested in the landscape itself, Hittisau offers gentle hiking paths that provide views of the village and surrounding alpine pastures. A notable 5.23 km round-trip route takes approximately 1.5 hours, following a cross-country ski path from the village center up to Bütscheln. The path passes scenic hillside locations and offers a peaceful way to experience the local environment. The area is accessible year-round, though visitors are advised to wear waterproof footwear and warm outerwear. The combination of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes Hittisau a significant destination for understanding the alpine way of life.