Things To Do
in Hard
Hard sits on the eastern shore of Lake Constance in Vorarlberg, Austria, offering scenic lake views and easy access to both mountains and water. The town has a calm, family-friendly atmosphere with traditional Alpine architecture and well-kept promenades along the lake. It's a convenient base for day trips to nearby towns like Bregenz and Dornbirn, as well as lake cruises and mountain excursions.
Seasonal markets, outdoor recreation, and warm Vorarlberg hospitality define the experience here.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the quaint town of Hard, located on the shores of Lake Constance, where the fresh alpine air greets you. Explore the beautiful lakeside promenades and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Settle into your accommodation and prepare for an exciting adventure ahead.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Austrian delicacies. Post-lunch, take a walk through the charming streets, visiting local shops and the stunning St. Stephen's Church. As the sun starts to dip, head to the shore for a peaceful lakeside stroll.
As night falls, indulge in a delightful dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can savor fresh fish dishes sourced directly from the lake. After dinner, consider attending a local cultural event or festival, if available. Wind down your evening with a scenic sunset view over the water.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hiking excursion in the Naturpark Nagelfluhkette. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you traverse through lush forests and unique geological formations. Connect with nature and keep an eye out for local wildlife along the scenic trails.
Stop for a picnic lunch at one of the scenic overlooks, relishing the local cuisine packed with fresh ingredients. Continue your exploration of the park by discovering hidden lakes and cascading waterfalls. Feel invigorated as you traverse the varied landscapes and soak in the natural beauty.
After returning to Hard, unwind at a local spa or wellness center, rejuvenating your muscles after a long day of hiking. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner in town, perhaps sampling some authentic Austrian wiener schnitzel. In the evening, take leisurely walks while admiring the starry sky reflecting over the lake.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $100-180 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $5-10 |
| 🧀Souvenir | $8-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Picturesque Lake Constance location with easy access to mountains
- Rich regional cuisine and hospitality
- Limited nightlife within Hard itself
- Prices can be higher in peak tourist seasons
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like to have ...
Places to Visit in Hard
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic vista over Lake Constance with the Alps as a dramatic backdrop, especially at dawn or sunset.
The floating stage on the lake provides striking lines and reflections during golden hour.
Calm waters, swans, and tranquil morning light along the shoreline.
A dramatic gorge with sheer rock walls and cascading water—great for moody, nature-focused shots.
Nearby cliffside viewpoints near Dornbirn offering expansive lake and valley views.
Food in Hard
Hard Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Vorarlberg cheese dumplings served with fried onions; a regional specialty often found in traditional inns.
Must-Try!
Spinach and cheese-filled pasta pockets, a common Alpine staple in taverns and restaurants.
Cornmeal porridge enjoyed as a rustic side or base with cheese, mushrooms, or sauerkraut.
Lake Constance trout, typically grilled or lightly fried, highlighting the lake's freshwater catches.
Assortment of local mountain cheeses with rustic breads and regional accompaniments.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal regional produce by the lakefront; great for cheeses, breads, and fresh produce on Saturdays.
Indoor market with fresh dairy, meats, breads, and snacks—good for a quick bite or ingredients for a picnic.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Grüß Gott or Hallo; a handshake is common in formal settings. Use polite forms when addressing strangers.
Punctuality is valued; arrive on time for meetings and reservations.
Keep noise reasonable in residential areas, especially in the evenings; dispose of trash properly and respect quiet hours.
Safety
Tipping in Hard
Ensure a smooth experience
Around 5-10% extra in restaurants if service is good; rounding up is common for small purchases.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small places may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with regular lake activities; thunderstorms can roll in in the afternoons. Pack light layers and sun protection.
Pleasant temperatures and harvest markets; days start to cool and rain is possible.
Cold with occasional snow; Christmas markets in nearby towns; dress warmly for evening strolls.
Mild and variable weather; flowers in bloom and good hiking conditions, though rain is possible.
Hard at Night
Hiking in Hard
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular route with scenic lake and Alpine views; cable car access is optional.
Dramatic gorge with hanging bridges and waterfalls near Dornbirn.
Panoramic trails near Dornbirn offering cliffside viewpoints and varied terrain.
Airports
How to reach Hard by plane.
Regional airport close to Hard with connections to major hubs; accessible by car or train.
German airport across the lake; convenient for regional connections and car rental.
Major international hub with frequent connections; reachable by train through the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families enjoy the safe, outdoor-oriented atmosphere and lake activities.
Residents often travel to nearby towns for work and school.
Tourists and seasonal workers contribute to a diverse linguistic and cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on Lake Constance with rental centers along the shore.
Trails around Pfänder and Karren attract outdoor enthusiasts.
Lake Constance cycle routes and nearby valleys offer varied terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hard.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Vorarlberg restaurants offer vegetarian options such as Käsknöpfle without meat, seasonal salads, and hearty vegetable soups; notify staff about dairy or gluten restrictions and they can often adapt dishes.