ViaRhenana: from Stein am Rhein to Steckborn

This varied, hilly stage begins in the small Swiss town of Stein am Rhein at the outflow of the Rhine from Untersee. It is considered one of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval towns in the German-speaking world. The Romans recognized the strategically favourable location and built the first bridge over the Rhine around 82 AD. AD and built the first bridge over Lake Rhine and the island of Werd. The oldest traces of settlement on the island date back to around 4000 BC, when farmers from the Danube valley settled here. The existing vicus Tasgetium in today's Eschenz has since developed into an important market town and was secured by the late Roman fort of Tasgetium around 300 AD. Today, the church at the castle, the oldest and first documented church in the canton of Schaffhausen, stands above it.

Mammern is one of the smallest municipalities in the canton. Hikers and pilgrims climb up to the district high above Untersee with the pilgrimage church of Klingenzell to enjoy the magnificent view of Stein am Rhein and stop off at the Klingenzellerhof. Not far from here is the Hochwacht (592 m). It has always served as a strategic vantage point with a wide panoramic view. The ruins of Neuburg Castle are also located above Mammern. It is the most important and largest castle complex on the southern shore of Untersee and the best preserved.

At the end of the stage, another picturesque little town awaits: the landmark of Steckborn is the Turmhof, built in 1282, with its striking baroque onion dome and four corner towers. Other sights include the old town wall, the town hall and the church of St. Jakob as well as the numerous timber-framed buildings.