Dornbirn, the newest and largest town in the state of Vorarlberg, lies only a few kilometers south of Bregenz at the edge of the Bregenzerwald.
The town is well known for its many textile firms, and savvy shoppers can visit the company outlets for bargains. First mentioned in records in AD 895, Dornbirn has existed under its current name only since 1901 and now extends all the way to the Rhine.
A highlight of a visit is the Rappenlochschlucht, a magnificent gorge where the turbulent River Ache flows and which can be easily accessed from the small village of Gütle (it's just a 10-minute walk).
