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Samina River

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Samina River (Liechtenstein)

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The Samina is the second-longest river in the Principality of Liechtenstein, with a total length of approximately 17 kilometers. It originates in the mountain regions of the Rätikon and flows through the wild and romantic Samina Valley before emptying into the Ill River near Frastanz in Austria. About 12 kilometers of its course lie within Liechtenstein territory. The river is of great ecological significance, as it covers long stretches in a near-natural state, providing a habitat for numerous rare animal and plant species. The water power of the Samina is utilized extensively, particularly by the Samina power plant, which went into operation in 1947 and makes a substantial contribution to the country's energy supply. Despite this hydroelectric use, conservation measures have been implemented to preserve the river's ecological value. The Samina Valley itself is uninhabited and is regarded as one of the most important recreational areas for hikers and nature lovers.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-6-5-1481314141060-4
Rain mm927091931471731691851211039193

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Samina River is accessible via hiking trails through the rugged, uninhabited valley. Visitors can explore the wild gorge and untouched nature at their own pace.
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Typical hours
As an open natural landscape, the Samina has no opening hours and is always accessible. The best time to visit is during daylight and good weather, as the trails can be challenging.
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Photography
Photography in the wild gorge is a highlight; the steep rock faces and clear water offer great subjects. Watch out for slippery ground and bring a waterproof camera.
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Time needed
For a hike through the Samina Valley, allow at least three to four hours. The route can be shortened by exploring only the upper section near Malbun.
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Combine with
Combine the Samina hike with a visit to Malbun, Liechtenstein's only ski resort. The nearby Gafadura Hut is also a worthwhile addition on a day trip.
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Getting there
The starting point for the Samina Valley is Malbun, reachable by car or post bus. From there, a marked hiking trail descends into the valley, partly steep and exposed.
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Insider tip
Wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water as there are no refreshment points in the valley. Start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat on exposed sections.

Geography

Coordinates
47.13330, 9.56660

Facts

  • Second-longest river in Liechtenstein (17 km)
  • Source located in the Rätikon mountains
  • Empties into the Ill River near Frastanz
  • Approximately 12 km of its course in Liechtenstein
  • Powered by the Samina power plant since 1947
  • Uninhabited valley with high ecological quality

Explore nearby

Notable places around

SilumSilum<1 km · WExplore →
LavadinaLavadina2 km · SExplore →
SaminatalSaminatal2 km · SEExplore →
GuflinaGuflina3 km · SWExplore →
Schalun Ruins (Wildschloss)Schalun Ruins (Wildschloss)3 km · NWExplore →
Triesenberg ForestTriesenberg Forest3 km · SWExplore →
Spoerry-ArealSpoerry-Areal4 km · WExplore →
Jenny & Spörry Factory BuildingJenny & Spörry Factory Building4 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Samina River (10)

Geografischer Mittelpunkt von Liechtenstein

Geographical center of Liechtenstein, marked by a memorial stone.

Helwangspitz

Helwangspitz is a mountain in Liechtenstein.

Drei Kapuziner

Drei Kapuziner is a mountain in Liechtenstein.

Alpspitz

Alpspitz is a mountain in Liechtenstein.

Gaflei Aussichtsturm

Gaflei observation tower has a panoramic view of the Liechtenstein Rhine valley.

Pfarrkirche Sankt Josef

Pfarrkirche Sankt Josef is a Catholic church building in the Principality of Liechtenstein.

Walsermuseum🏛 museum

Walsermuseum in Triesenberg shows the cultural history of the Walser people in Liechtenstein.

Heimatmuseum🏛 museum

Heimatmuseum in Triesenberg with exhibitions on local history.

Erichs Bildergalerie

Erichs Bildergalerie in Triesenberg displays local art.

Kapelle Steg

Kapelle Steg is a Catholic church building in the Principality of Liechtenstein.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Samina?
The Samina is the second longest river in Liechtenstein, flowing through a wild and romantic valley.
Can you hike in the Samina Valley?
Yes, there are beautiful paths along the river that are pleasantly cool, especially in summer.
Is fishing allowed in the Samina?
Yes, fishing is possible in certain sections with a valid fishing permit.
Are there dangerous spots along the river?
After heavy rain, the river can swell quickly; you should stay away from the banks then.
Where does the Samina flow to?
It flows north into Austria and flows into the Ill river near Frastanz.
Samina River: where is it located?
Samina River is located in Triesenberg, Liechtenstein.
Samina River: what is there to see?
Highlights include Geografischer Mittelpunkt von Liechtenstein, Helwangspitz, Drei Kapuziner.
Samina River: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Samina River: why is it worth visiting?
The Samina is the second-longest river in the Principality of Liechtenstein, with a total length of approximately 17 kilometers.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Pfälzerhütte — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Pfälzerhütte
The Pfälzerhütte is a mountain hut at 2108 m elevation, situated directly on the border between Liechtenstein and Austria.
Gaflei — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Gaflei
One of the highest settlements in Liechtenstein, known for the former health resort.
Hinter-Prufatscheng — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Hinter-Prufatscheng
A remote district with historic Walser charm high above the Liechtenstein lowlands.
Silum — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Silum
A quiet holiday and alpine area high above Triesenberg, which is particularly attractive for families.
Sücka — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Sücka
An alpine settlement on the mountain ridge before the Steg tunnel, housing an inn.
Masescha — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Masescha
A hamlet on the mountain slope, historically founded by the Walsers as the first settlement in Liechtenstein.
Rizlina — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Rizlina
A small mountain hamlet on the way to the Samina valley, known for its remoteness.
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Jonaboden
A quiet hillside settlement of Triesenberg, nestled in green meadows and forests.
Lavadina — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Lavadina
A small, hidden hamlet in Triesenberg that exudes deep peace and tradition.
Rotenboden — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Rotenboden
A centrally located district of Triesenberg with good infrastructure and sweeping valley views.
Steinort — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Steinort
A rocky and quiet residential area that belongs to Triesenberg and is surrounded by nature.
Saminatal — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Saminatal
A remote, wildly romantic mountain valley in eastern Liechtenstein, untouched and pristine.
Steg — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Steg
A picturesque mountain village and recreation area accessible through a tunnel from Triesenberg.
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Guflina
A characteristic hillside settlement of Triesenberg, whose houses seem to stick to the rock.
Wangerberg — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Wangerberg
A widely scattered hamlet south of the village center of Triesenberg on steep slopes.

History & landmarks

Steg Reservoir (Gänglesee) — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Steg Reservoir (Gänglesee)
The Steg Reservoir, also known as Gänglesee, is a picturesque artificial lake used for hydroelectric power and recreation.
Walser Museum — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Walser Museum
The Walser Museum in Triesenberg documents the unique history and culture of the Walser settlers who arrived in the 13th century.
Sareiserjoch — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Sareiserjoch
Sareiserjoch is a scenic mountain pass above Malbun, serving as a gateway to numerous high-altitude trails in the Rätikon range.
Naafkopf — Samina River (Liechtenstein)
Naafkopf
Naafkopf is a significant border mountain where the national boundaries of Liechtenstein, Austria, and Switzerland converge.