LAG Regionalentwicklung Vorarlberg (REGIO-V)

Physical & demographic characteristics of LAG area

The LAG area is located in Vorarlberg, the most western part of Austria. The area consists of side valleys and the Alpine foothills, including topographically disadvantaged zones. The region borders the Rheintal and Walgau metropolitan area, which is densely populated and highly industrialized. This proximity to the LAG area poses major challenges but also offers opportunities. 

The LAG consists of 52, mostly smaller municipalities with in total around 80.000 inhabitants. Between 2012 and 2021 the population of the area grew by an average of 5,43 %. However, population growth varies between the subregions. The LAG area consists fo seven distinct subregions: Brandnertal, Bregenzerwald, Großes Walsertal, Kleinwalsertal, Klostertal-Arlberg, Leiblachtal, and Montafon. These regions all have specific characteristics and different development goals. However, all subregions are rural areas facing similar development challenges. These include, among others, the climate crisis, the shortage of s

Assets & land use of the LAG area

The region’s landscape is highly diverse, ranging from pre-alpine to alpine terrain and high mountain valleys. Depending on the subregion, the natural environment varies considerably, and economic development has taken different paths. The mountain areas are strongly shaped by (winter) tourism, while the pre-alpine regions are characterized more by trade and small industries. However, commerce and craftsmanship also have a long-standing tradition throughout the area. Agriculture continues to play an important role in all subregions. Noteworthy are also the regions cultural institutions and assets, including museums and architecture.