Wildberg rises to 2788 metres in the Schesaplana group of the Rätikon range, in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg. Standing alone at the northern edge of the Brandner Glacier, it dominates the surrounding landscape and rewards hikers with one of the finest viewpoints in this part of the Alps.

What makes Wildberg special is the contrast between its easy accessibility and its wild alpine character. A striking ridge, roughly two and a half kilometres long, runs northeast from the summit and is visible from far away. In summer the top offers sweeping views over the glacier and neighbouring Schesaplana, the highest peak of the Rätikon, while in winter the terrain turns considerably more demanding.

How to reach the summit

• Mannheimer Hütte (2679 m) — connecting ridge to Panüelerkopf, about half an hour on foot, easy ascent via the west ridge
• Village of Brand — traverse via Mottakopf and the north ridge, demanding climbing (UIAA II-III), up to 7 hours
• Oberzalimhütte (1889 m) — approach via the Leiberweg trail, about 1.5 km north of the summit

Practical information

• The main base for an ascent is the Mannheimer Hütte, situated on the ridge between Panüelerkopf and Wildberg
• The north ridge requires climbing skills at UIAA grade II and III and was first climbed in 1886
• An alternative base is the Oberzalimhütte in the Zalim valley, from where an easier path leads up

No exact date for the first ascent of Wildberg in the 19th century has been documented, leaving a small mystery attached to this otherwise well-frequented viewpoint.