ST. ANTON AM ARLBERG
AUSTRIA
2023
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Nestled amidst the breathtaking Tyrolean Alps, St. Anton am Arlberg stands as a beacon of world-renowned tourism with a storied history spanning over a century. From its inception, the village has not only embraced its alpine surroundings but has successfully integrated a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
The village, with its own dialect and rich cultural heritage, boasts a diverse landscape that includes the UNESCO-recognized “Karfreitagsratschen” ritual and the Mösli Landscape Protection Area. With a 2/3 judicial community practicing traditional Alpine farming, it is rooted in its cultural identity while embracing modernity.
Boasting one of the largest skiing areas in Austria and the world, St. Anton is a year-round destination that offers a plethora of alpine experiences in summer and winter alike.
With a 14km cycle path connecting Landeck to St. Anton and a proposed extension over the Arlberg pass to Vorarlberg, the village aims to enhance its connectivity to international pathways, including the Lake Constance Cycle Path and Via Claudia Augusta.
The village ‘s commitment to sustainable tourism growth, environmental protection, and the preservation of its cultural authenticity sets it apart as a model for responsible development in the picturesque landscape.
HIGHLIGHTS
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Connectivity and Mobility
St. Anton recognizes the significance of connectivity, not just within its borders but on an international scale. The creation of the Stanzertal Cycle Path, a 14km connection from Landeck to St. Anton with proposed extensions, highlights the village’s commitment to sustainable mobility. This cycling initiative aims to provide an alternative, traffic-calmed route, fostering not only local mobility but also boosting summer tourism. The emphasis on accessibility extends to the international railway station, wheelchair-friendly public transport, and inclusive facilities, making St. Anton a destination that welcomes visitors from various corners of the globe.
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Cultural Tapestry and Heritage and Preservation
St. Anton prides itself on a rich cultural tapestry woven through its own dialect, longstanding traditions, and UNESCO intangible heritages such as the “Karfreitagsratschen” ritual. The village actively promotes both old and new customs, supporting 33 associations that contribute to the annual St. Anton Village Festival and the Arlberg Culture Days that celebrate both old and new customs.
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Sustainable Tourism and Environmental Stewardship
St. Anton am Arlberg is steadfast in its commitment to sustainable tourism growth and environmental stewardship. With a history of more than a century in tourism development, the village strives to strike a delicate balance between the demands of the tourism industry and the preservation of its natural environment. This commitment is not merely rhetoric but is manifested in initiatives such as local energy autonomy and collaboration among stakeholders. The community’s goal is to increase the regional added value while securing an attractive living space, recognizing the pivotal role tourism plays in the economic landscape of rural areas.
