The municipal government of Lochau, Austria, is challenging the closure of a centuries-old hiking trail to the Pfänder mountain after German billionaire Michael Wisser constructed a three-story villa across the path. Mayor Dr. Frank Matt has publicly labeled the obstruction unlawful, stating the local administration intends to use all available legal avenues to restore public access to the historic route.
Why is the Pfänder hiking trail currently blocked?
The conflict centers on a newly constructed villa owned by Michael Wisser, the 55-year-old CEO of the Frankfurt-based service provider Wisag. According to reports from the German newspaper Bild, the structure was built directly over a long-standing hiking trail that serves as a popular route for residents and tourists heading toward the 1,064-meter summit of the Pfänder.
Residents have filed formal complaints with the Lochau municipal administration, noting that a newly installed sign now directs hikers on a detour around the private property. Local hikers claim that the right of way is historically established and legally documented in the land registry, with one resident telling Bild that the path has been in use since their childhood.
What is the official stance of the Lochau municipality?
Lochau Mayor Dr. Frank Matt has characterized the development as a surprise to the local government. In his statement to Bild, Matt asserted that the property owner acted without any legal foundation when erecting the wall that severed the trail. The municipality is currently preparing a legal strategy to challenge the closure and force the reopening of the path.
The Pfänder is one of the most frequented hiking destinations in the Lake Constance region.
How does the villa owner justify the closure?
A spokesperson for Wisag AG defended the construction, stating that the original hiking trail runs through the private garden of Michael Wisser. The representative described the current diversion as a “minor” detour and emphasized that the company is engaged in an ongoing dialogue with the Lochau municipal authorities.
The spokesperson maintained that the goal of these discussions is to reach a “good and sustainable solution” for all parties involved. However, this position contrasts sharply with the firm stance taken by the local government, which views the current state of the trail as a breach of established land rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the villa blocking the Pfänder trail?
The villa is owned by Michael Wisser, a 55-year-old German billionaire and the CEO of the Frankfurt-based service company Wisag.
Is the closure of the trail legal?
According to Lochau Mayor Dr. Frank Matt, the closure is unlawful. The municipality claims there is no legal basis for the obstruction and is pursuing legal action to restore the path.
What is the status of the hiking route?
The original path is currently blocked by a wall and a private garden. Hikers are being directed to follow a detour around the villa to reach the Pfänder summit.
Are you a regular hiker in the Vorarlberg region? Share your thoughts on how private property rights should balance with public access to historic trails in the comments below.
