A beautiful route from Schaffhausen to Rheinau, along the Rhine with an obligatory stop at the spectacular Rheinfall.
Rheinfall
This is the largest waterfall in Europe in terms of flow, with a width of 150 metres, a height of 23 metres and a depth of 13 metres.
Until now, I had only admired it from the train window, passing through Neuhausen. However, I finally mapped out a route to see this marvel up close. It is impressive.
For more excitement you can take a boat up to the waterfall and climb up to the viewing platform, which is located on one of the protruding rocks. I have not tried this myself. However, I imagine that on a hot day it is very pleasant to see the waterfall from so close up and to cool off in its fresh water. Be warned, however, that the ejection of water bouncing on the rocks is very strong. Probably more than one adventurous person came back from this boat ride completely soaked.
A few words about the route
Although the route is several kilometres long, it does not require heavy trekking shoes and the ascents are insignificant. The walk is very pleasant and without much effort.
The first part of the trail from the train station in Schaffhausen to the waterfall has an urban face. It leads through the old town with its beautiful old houses and fountains, past a small vineyard and residential areas away from the centre.
A beautiful corner of the Rhine
There is one place in particular that I would like to recommend on this stretch. After crossing the bridge, there is a descent behind a small dam. There is a beautiful spot hidden there, invisible from above due to the dense growth of trees and bushes. I recommend seeing it.
The section from the waterfall to Rheinau is dominated by nature. Buildings are left behind and we enter a path surrounded by forest on one side and by the Rhine river on the other. The clear water invites you to dip at least your feet.
At the end of the route, in Rheinau, there is a beautiful baroque monastery, once a Benedictine abbey. From here we return home by bus.
For motorists, I would recommend leaving the car at one of the car parks located near the waterfall and taking a stroll along the Rhine.
