Dornbirn: The Red House, Textile History and inatura
Vorarlberg's largest town between tradition and innovation
FamilyVorarlberg- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Languages
- German, English
Dornbirn is the largest town in Vorarlberg and grew into one of Austria's economic centers through the textile industry. This private walk shows the market square with the Red House and tells how farming villages became a town of factories and ideas.
The Red House on the market square was built in 1639 as a typical Rhine Valley timber house and painted red with ox blood. Opposite stands St. Martin's parish church with its Neoclassical portico and freestanding tower.
In the 19th century textile entrepreneurs such as F. M. Hämmerle made Dornbirn a center of embroidery and weaving. Factory owners' villas and workers' housing tell this story, as does the Dornbirn trade fair that grew out of that era.
Old factory halls now house inatura, an interactive nature museum that families love. On request your guide can add the Rolls-Royce Museum or a ride on the Karren cable car.
Highlights
- The Red House of 1639
- St. Martin's parish church
- Vorarlberg's textile history
- inatura in a former factory
- Optional Karren cable car with valley views
The route
-
1Market square
Red House and St. Martin
-
2Old lanes
Rhine Valley houses
-
3Factory quarter
Textile history
-
4inatura
Nature in an industrial landmark
Who this tour is for
Ideal for families, business and history fans and trade fair visitors.
Frequently asked questions
Are entrance fees included?
No. Entrance fees and tickets for cable cars, trains, boats or tastings are not included and are paid on site. Your guide is happy to tell you in advance what to expect.
Is the price per person or per group?
This is a private tour with a licensed Austrian tour guide. The price is per group, not per person, so it is just you and your own party.
Is the ride up the Karren worth it?
Yes. The Karren cable car takes you to a viewpoint over the Rhine Valley all the way to Lake Constance. The ticket is not included.
