SwitzerlandMobility 86: Rhine Falls–Zurich Oberland Stage 1

The largest waterfall in Europe, the Rhine Falls, is a misty natural spectacle. Spectacle and tourist bustle are followed by expanses, small vineyards on south-facing slopes, and the Thur with the flower-adorned beam houses of Andelfingen. The motorway construction made it possible: a fast road turned into a long, idyllic bike path through forest and fields. The S-Bahn accompanies the route.

After entering a well-preserved village quarter, Winterthur - Zurich’s contender - displays its charm as a creative bike city. The Töss winds deeply cut into the land. Over the Weisslingen heights, it leads to the flat valley at Pfäffikon. A gem on the edge of the industrialized Zurich hinterland is the Pfäffikersee: surprisingly undeveloped, wide reed meadows and peatlands with fever clover and cotton grass characterize the landscape alongside the silent water surface, providing a perfect habitat for a rich birdlife.

© Stiftung SchweizMobil