It so happened that I chose this route in autumn. However, it is accessible all year round and arguably at any time has its own unique atmosphere and much to offer walkers.
The starting point of this trail is the small but very charming village of Oberneunforn, with its beautiful old buildings.
The path then winds along local vineyards, through forests and past cornfields and pastures. As you walk, you can enjoy magnificent views of the Thur valley and, in sunny weather, also of the Alpine peaks.
Kartause Ittingen cultural and meeting centre
Of course, you can stop at any of the small vineyards and purchase a bottle or two of wine. On Sunday, most of them were unfortunately closed. However, we did manage to buy some local products, including wine, in a small shop on the grounds of the former Carthusian monastery. This is now home to the Kartause Ittingen cultural and meeting centre.
It is impossible to miss this place because of the huge, artistic structure standing in front of the entrance. It is a double loop almost 15 metres high, named by its creators – LOOP. It was built in 2017 and, according to available information, will stand there until 2021.
The complex includes, among other things, a farm with its own cheese factory and hop garden, a winery, museums, a restaurant and a hotel.
Accommodation in a former monk’s hermitage
The site also offers holidays in a former monks’ hermitage. Between 1461 and 1848, the Carthusian monks led a quiet life of seclusion here. The order has long since been dissolved and the buildings renovated by the current owners and used for holiday rentals.
The website says that you can experience monastic life here first-hand. However, it seems to me that the monks lived in more spartan conditions. Indeed, I didn’t notice hard wooden beds with straw-stuffed mattresses in the photos, just stylish, comfortable and cosy furnishings. Nevertheless, it is an interesting attraction and the surroundings are very pleasant.
I encourage you to spend some time here and stroll through the local gardens. After all, this is already the last leg of the tour.
After crossing the Rohrerbrücke bridge, the road continues along the Murg River to Frauenfeld itself, where this trail ends.
Finally, the entire route should be passable for pushchairs. However, there are short sections, mainly leading through the forest, where the paths are narrower and bumpy. Also pushing a pushchair uphill in some places will require strength in your hands. So be warned and I highly recommend it.
