Europatreppe 4000

The opportunities for physical exertion are nearly inexhaustible and not limited just to sport in the narrower sense. Away from sport facilities, hiking paths, etc., the Europatreppe (3609-step stairway) in Partenen offers the ultimate fitness kick. 

What was once erected as a supply route for the construction of the large reservoirs in the Silvretta is now the “largest fitness machine in the world” with 3609 steps (for comparison: the Ulm Minster has 768 steps), 700 m of elevation change and a maximum grade of up to 86%, making it a challenge for both pro and amateur athletes as well as the longest straight stairway in Europe. In addition to the Austrian women’s national  ski team, many football teams and marathon runners integrate the Europatreppe 4000 into their training plans.

A time recorder is installed at the start and end of the stairs so you can record your personal best time. If you find yourself out of breath: benches along the stairway offer a chance to rest and enjoy the magnificent view of the landscape around Gaschurn and Partenen. 

The steps of the Europatreppe can be purchased or are sometimes gifted by the community of Gaschurn – Partenen in recognition of special occasions. A small brass sign at the foot of the step indicates the respective owner. The proceeds from the sale of such steps are used for maintenance of the Europatreppe.


Europatreppe 4000 – Montafoner Treppencup

One special highlight is the annual “Europatreppe 4000 – Montafoner Treppencup” [Montafon Stairs Cup]. International amateur athletes aged 10 to 75 years compete every year for the record, which currently lies at 20:28 minutes. The “Empire State Building Run-Up” is the most famous stair race in the world. The athletes in that race run up 1,575 steps. This is small and boring compared to the Europatreppe in the Montafon.