Chemin de la Sarine fribourgeoise
Overview
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Distance 17 km
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Duration 4 h 45 min
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Ascent 480 m
Intro
The stage is partially closed. This wooded and hilly stage is characterised by a diverse range of landscapes and a rich natural heritage. The Saane runs parallel with the trail, offering numerous viewpoints and bearing witness to the intimate relationship between water and land. Landmarks to look forward to include Illens Castle and Hauterive Abbey.
Description
The first stage along the Fribourg Saane undulates up- and downhill to begin with, leading through woodland and meadows. Soon enough, the river comes into view, nestled between sandstone rockfaces that provide a wonderful view of the Saane’s meanders.
Now the route enters into an area with a rich historical heritage: atop a hill in a nook of the river Saane are the remains of Illens Castle. The complex dates back to the 12th century and is one of the most important historical monuments in the canton of Fribourg. Further on, you will also pass by the Cistercian abbey of Hauterive, founded in the 12th century. Nestled in an oasis of green, it speaks of a long spiritual and architectural tradition. The name Hauterive (high bank) comes from the tall sandstone rockfaces that form the right bank of the Saane. In this abbey, a community of around 20 monks leads a simple life. Sometimes the abbey provides guided tours and the abbey shop is worth a visit too.
The bridges along the way are also of interest. Once you’re past the monastery, the trail takes a detour along the banks of the river Glâne where you will cross the Pont Saint Apolline, a bridge significant to pilgrims walking the Way of St. James. Back on the first section of the route, you already crossed the Pont de la Tuffière, which was once a suspension bridge but is now a two-lane road bridge. It is located in Petite Sarine, an amphibian spawning area of national importance. Every step of the way is steeped in history and unique natural landscapes: floodplains, forest reserves and rockfaces are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna – dragonflies, wagtails, chamois and amphibians all call this protected area home.
This stage ends before the gates of Fribourg in the former industrial area of Les Charmettes. Nowadays, the University of Fribourg campus, higher education providers and research centres are just around the corner. It’s a prime example of the contrast between pristine wilderness and the repurposing of urban space that characterises this area. It illustrates the way the river Saane conjoins the past and present while also shaping the region’s identity.
An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted
| Start location |
Rossens
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|---|---|
| Destination |
Fribourg
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| Ascent |
480 m
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| Descent |
560 m
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| Distance |
17 km
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| Duration |
4 h 45 min
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| Technical requirements |
Easy
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| Physical requirements |
Medium
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| More information | https://schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/r... |
Quick Facts
Route number
