Why is Augstenberg called “Schafäpler”? It’s a question that echoes through the crisp mountain air as we stand here, beneath its impressive peak. Augstenberg, rising 2,359 meters, dominates the skyline, a proud member of the Rätikon range in the Eastern Alps. It’s not just a mountain, but a landmark, a silent witness to centuries of history, a beacon visible from the nearby town of Malbun. The nickname “Schafäpler” whispers of a time when shepherds roamed these slopes, their flocks dotting the green hillsides. The mountain’s official name, Augstenberg, is more formal, perhaps reflecting its stature as the fourth highest peak in Liechtenstein. From Malbun, the Augstenberg appears as a gentle giant, inviting hikers to its summit. A relatively easy 2.5-hour hike rewards you with panoramic views of the Rhine Valley and the surrounding Alps. Imagine standing atop Augstenberg, a cross, built in 1907, reaching towards the sky. You can almost feel the presence of Johann Rudolf Renggli, who first conquered this peak in 1836. Augstenberg is more than just a hiking destination. It’s a hub for adventure sports like rock climbing and paragliding. It’s a place to connect with nature, to breathe in the fresh mountain air, and to feel the pulse of Liechtenstein’s rich history. As you descend, perhaps you’ll catch a glimpse of the “Gorvion”, a distinctive, angular peak just across the border in Austria. Its presence reminds us that Augstenberg stands not in isolation, but as part of a larger tapestry of natural wonders. The Augstenberg experience is one of connection: to the mountains, to the history, and to the adventurous spirit that draws us to these heights.
Kriegerdenkmal
“Kriegerdenkmal” – is the German word for war memorial. This one stands as a silent sentinel, a somber testament to