Introduction
The Principality of Liechtenstein covers both lowlands – including part of the fertile Rhine Valley and the steep western slope of the Three Sisters massif – and mountains. The latter are in the eastern part of the country and are accessible through three high valleys, the best known being that of Malbun, Liechtenstein’s premier ski resort (see below).
In summer, hikers and ramblers may wish to explore Liechtenstein’s vineyards, forests and nature reserves. The principality’s mountains attract climbers of all abilities. For the less energetic, there are several tourist sites of interest. For further information about attractions within the country, contact Liechtenstein Tourismus (see Contact Addresses section).
In the capital, Vaduz, the Postage Stamp Museum (Postal Museum), the National Library, the Ski Museum, and the National Museum are worth visiting. The Liechtenstein Art Museum, housed in a specially designed building, contains the treasures of the Prince’s collection, including works by Rembrandt, Rubens and Van Dyck, as well as modern art from the former Liechtenstein State Art Collection. Wine tasting groups of 10 or more people are welcome in the Prince’s Wine Cellars in Vaduz, subject to reservation (tel: 232 1018; fax: 233 1145; e-mail: office@hofkellerei.li; website: www.hofkellerei.li). A ‘City Train’ will take visitors around the sights on a 30-minute tour.
There are local museums in Triesenberg (the Walser Museum) and Schellenberg-Ruggell. Schaan is noted for its theatre, its Roman excavations, the St Maria zum Trost Chapel and DoMus – Museum and Gallery of the Community of Schaan. Also of interest are the Gutenberg Castle and St Peter’s Chapel at Balzers; the St Mamerten and Maria Chapels and the old part of the village in Triesen; the Chapel of St Joseph in Planken; the Roman excavations at Eschen-Nendeln; the parish churches in Bendern, Mauren and Ruggell; and the ruins of the upper and lower Burg Schellenberg.
The winter sports area is concentrated around Malbun at 1600m (5250ft) and Steg at 1300m (4250ft). At Malbun, there are two chair lifts, four ski lifts and a natural ice rink. Steg has become famous for its popular cross-country skiing loop with three distances – 4km (2.5 miles), 12km (7 miles), 12.5km (7.8 miles) – which is also equipped for use at night. Steg also has a ski lift and sledge-run.
|
