Where the journey is the destination – on the road with Wander Kathi

We meet her on the path from Vaduz up to the viewing platform above the Letzi, a path that seems tailor-made for this encounter. For it reflects what sets her apart: curiosity, a love of nature, and the joy of taking others along with her—step by step.

From the valley to the heights: The path to becoming a hiking guide

“I grew up in Schaan,” says Katharina Link. “Even as a child, I often went hiking in the mountains with my dad. I think that’s where my love for the mountains began—or rather, my addiction to them,” she says with a laugh.

Over time, she noticed that many people in her circle would love to go hiking but didn’t have anyone to go with them or didn’t feel confident enough to head into the mountains alone. So she decided to turn her passion into a career. She completed training to become a certified hiking guide, then an “International Mountain Leader,” and finally the demanding Swiss T4 advanced training so she could lead more challenging tours.

“Of course, my focus is on Liechtenstein. I know these mountains like the back of my hand,” she says, her eyes sparkling.

Hiking for Everyone – Also Under the Liechtenstein Brand Logo

At some point, she asked Liechtenstein Marketing if she could print the logo on a small gift for her guests. This led to a wonderful partnership. As a proud brand partner, Wander Kathi promotes vacation packages in Malbun for children, families, and groups: “Expertise from Liechtenstein.”

“In the summer we go wildlife watching; in the winter, snowshoe hikes are on the agenda. I love showing young people nature,” she says. She also has a knack for adults: whether it’s a sunrise tour, a herb walk, a full-moon highlight, or a day trip to the Three Sisters—her tours are as unique as her guests. “Many of my clients are very busy with work and appreciate the chance to just switch off. I’m grateful that I get to show them a piece of my home from its most beautiful side.”

The summit is magnificent—but the journey is the destination

Discovering the beauty of nature means so much more to me than “just” climbing a peak. Of course, the view from the top is fantastic. But everything you experience along the way—flowers, animals, the atmosphere, the light—that’s what you take back with you into your everyday life.

Sometimes the summit isn't the goal at all. There are days when you have to turn back for safety reasons—for example, due to a sudden change in weather or exhaustion. And yet it was a wonderful hike.
The Schönberg is particularly close to my heart. During the blooming season in June and July, it’s a true spectacle of colors. But every day is different—different clouds, different atmosphere. It never gets boring.

Wander Kathi – more than just a name, pure passion

The fact that I’m known today as “Wander Kathi” is thanks to a spur-of-the-moment idea: When I wanted to share my hikes on Instagram, I thought—my name is Katharina, I love hiking—so I’m Wander Kathi. The name fits, it’s catchy—and it stuck.

Anyone interested can contact me today via my website or Instagram. I organize custom tours for individuals, groups of friends, companies, or entire teams. Especially during corporate events or group hikes, I see time and again how hiking together brings people closer.

I like to say that hiking creates opportunities for connection, fosters team spirit, and opens hearts. When we tackle challenges together—such as building an igloo—or engage in conversation away from the daily grind of the office, deep conversations and genuine camaraderie often emerge. This gives participants a sense of unity, trust, and inspiration that lingers long after the experience is over.

"My guests range from young to old. My oldest guest was 85 years old and came from the U.S.—I hiked the entire Liechtenstein Trail with him. This shows just how diverse the people I have the privilege of guiding are—and how hiking is an enriching experience for all generations."

Two paths that complement each other perfectly

She launched her freelance business in February 2020—but then the pandemic hit. “I tried to stay afloat and eventually went back to the office.” In 2022, she took the plunge and started over—and today she enjoys a unique balance: as a hiking guide, she’s her own boss, free and flexible as she explores the outdoors. At the office, on the other hand, she values the teamwork, the clear guidelines, and the reliable structures. “I’m grateful that I get to do both. This mix suits me perfectly—and makes me completely happy.”

Naafkopf or Grauspitz?

When asked about her favorite mountain, she hesitates briefly—then her eyes light up. “The Naafkopf. That’s where Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and Austria come together. To me, it feels almost more majestic there than on the Grauspitz—even though the Grauspitz, at 2,599 meters, is Liechtenstein’s highest mountain.” In winter, she leads snowshoe tours, often in nearby Vorarlberg. And in her free time? “I love ski touring. To me, snow is the most beautiful form of water,” she says with a laugh.

A heartfelt appeal

When you listen to Wander Kathi, you just want to set off right away. Into the mountains, into nature, to find yourself. “Head for the mountains—it’s just good for the body, mind, and soul.”

And if you want to follow Wander Kathi: Instagram: @wander_kathi