“Did you hear about the Swiss artillery shells that accidentally hit Malbun in 1968?” It might sound like the start of a bizarre joke but it is a true story. Fortunately, the shells only damaged some chairs sitting outdoors. Now let’s delve into the story of Malbun.
Malbun is a ski-resort village. It sits high in the Alps within Liechtenstein. Malbun is the highest village in Liechtenstein. You will find it in an exclave of Triesenberg municipality.
Malbun is the only ski resort in Liechtenstein. It lies at 1600 meters above sea level. That is 5249 feet high. The village is close to the Austrian border. It is less than two kilometers away.
The Bergbahnen Malbun is the main ski area. Three chair lifts service it. Two are on the western slope. One is on the eastern slope. From the top of the eastern lift, you can see Switzerland and Austria.
There are two children’s areas at the base of the slopes of Malbun. Malbi Park is free. It has a miniature tow-bar. It also has a magic carpet. A ski school uses the other area.
Malbun cultivates traditions. It is known for its idyllic setting. Various events enliven village life in Malbun.
In winter, the Sareis, Tali, and Hochegg ski lifts take skiers to the slopes. Schneeflucht has a tow lift. It serves a gentle slope near the mountain valley entrance. During summer, only the Sareis chairlift operates. It carries nature lovers to a viewpoint at 2000 meters.
The Princely Family is important in Liechtenstein. The family’s castle is in Vaduz. Prince Hans-Adam II is the head of state. Hereditary Prince Alois has managed the government since 2004. Princess Gina is fondly remembered. The Fürstin-Gina trail is named after her.
Tina Weirather is a famous ski racer from Liechtenstein. She is an Olympic bronze medalist. She also won several World Cup races. Now, she is an ambassador for Liechtenstein. You might meet Tina in Malbun.
Marco Büchel is another ski professional. He often visits the Liechtenstein mountains.
Malbun is also home to top companies. These include Hilti, Ivoclar, Hilcona, Malbuner, and Hoval. Liechtenstein’s location in Europe is business-friendly.
Malbun offers 23 kilometers of slopes. They vary in difficulty. Modern lifts, hotels, and restaurants serve the area. Malbun is open from December to March. It offers skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding. Hiking trails and sledding paths are available. The Bergrestaurant Sareis offers stunning sunsets.
So, whether you are here for the slopes or the views, Malbun offers a unique alpine experience. Remember the story of the accidental shelling. It is a reminder that even the most peaceful places have unexpected stories.