300 years of Liechtenstein

On January 23rd, 1719, the Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI elevated the principality of Liechtenstein to the status of an imperial principality. 300 years later the founding of the small sovereign country is being celebrated throughout the year with festivities, concerts, performances and exhibitions.

To this day little Liechtenstein has survived next to its larger neighbors Switzerland and Austria. The country is marked by steep Alpine peaks and the flat green Rhine Valley. At 160 square kilometers (62 square miles) and a mere 38,000 inhabitants, Liechtenstein is the sixth smallest country in the world. It's best reached by car. Liechtenstein has no airport of its own.

Shopping, strolling, enjoying art — Liechtenstein's heart beats in Vaduz, the principality's capital. A traffic-free pedestrian zone stretches from the government district to Vaduz town hall. From the historical state museum to the contemporary art museum — you can spend a lot of time in this small space.

Vaduz Castle, on a hillside 120 meters (393 ft.) above the capital, is visible from afar. It is the residence of the princely family and cannot be viewed from within, but tours of Vaduz give an insight into the castle's history, such as the fact that it came into the possession of the House of Liechtenstein in 1712.

Liechtenstein is a great destination for hikers. It has more than 400 kilometers (248 mi) of signposted hiking trails, among them the Historical Eschnerberg Trail from Bendern to Schellenberg, which runs past archaeological sites or the more athletic Three Sisters Hike (pictured). In May, the 75 kilometer Liechtenstein Trail was also opened, on which you can hike through the entire country.

In Ruggeller Riet Nature Reserve, walkers and cyclists can find peace and relaxation. Flat moors, ponds and straw meadows that provide an ideal habitat for endangered flora and fauna cover an area of 90 hectares (222 acres). The reserve is at its loveliest in early summer, when the blossoms of Siberian iris transform large areas into a blue carpet.

A mild climate due to the warm wind known as the foehn, southwest-facing slopes and good soil make ideal conditions for growing pinot noir and chardonnay grapes. The Herawingert vineyards are the most traditional and important in the principality. The Prince of Liechtenstein Winery is the perfect place to enjoy a good glass of wine after a day of discovering Liechtenstein.

Liechtenstein has its ski resorts to thank for many of its visitors. With guaranteed snow, a family-friendly atmosphere and idyllic scenery, the village of Malbun offers 23 kilometers of slopes. In addition to downhill skiing and snowboarding, you can go on guided snowshoe or cross-country ski tours. And if you want a bit more luxury, the fashionable hotels offer princely accommodation.