Field, forest, and meadow paths in the border area

The route goes over meadows where cows, sheep, and goats graze, through forests with rushing streams in the gorge and along field paths past ripe fruit trees and vine stocks. Autumn reveals its full splendour. 

Three cantons, two municipalities, one district, and many border stones: To know on which cantonal territory you are during the hike from Reute down to Berneck and back via Steingocht, good local knowledge is needed. The Ausserrhoden municipality of Reute divides the Innerrhoden district of Oberegg into two halves, and the St. Gallen municipality of Berneck pushes uphill from the Rhine plain. It is a mild and fertile area. Apples, pears, and grapes grow here in abundance. They form the basis for Appenzeller Bschorle and for Rheintaler wine. 

Jolanda Spengler text & images