Reiat-Route
Overview
Intro
In the very north of Switzerland, this route winds through the hilly landscape typical of the region, along the small Biber river and past green meadows, vineyards and forests. The views extend from the Alpine chain across the landscape of Hegau in Germany, with its characteristic volcanic cones.
Description
The Reiat region lies on the northernmost edge of Switzerland, between the wooded borders and the volcanic cones of the Hegau landscape. The small Biber river has carved deep into the terrain here. In this idyllic, rural corner of northern Switzerland, there is a colourful mix of fields, meadows, vineyards and mixed forests. And you can enjoy magnificent far-reaching views to the Hegau volcanoes, over the Swiss Plateau and to the Alps. The cycling route takes you through typical Swiss villages such as Thayngen, Bibern, Opfertshofen, Büttenhardt, Lohn and Stetten. They have preserved their traditional character, with historic village centres and well-maintained half-timbered houses.
The starting point for the circular route is Schaffhausen. From the cantonal capital, you travel north and past Herblingen Castle. It was built in the 13th century and is now in private ownership. From here, you climb to the village of Büttenhardt, the highest point on the route. The ascent is leisurely, making it a perfect opportunity to enjoy the far-reaching views. On the descent, the route follows quiet country roads. The Reiatstube restaurant is along the way, and its garden terrace offers a far-reaching view over the landscape. Shortly after this, you reach Opfertshofen. If you like, you can take a break at the lido.
The route winds down further to Bibern, where the small Biber river shapes the landscape. And with a little luck, you may actually see a “Biber” (German for beaver) here. You continue to follow the Biber river’s course to Thayngen, the main town in the district of Reiat. From here, the route runs along the edge of forests and through unspoiled areas. The Morgetshofsee lake is particularly notable – it’s an amphibian spawning area of national importance. It provides valuable habitat for rare species. Fire pits along the route invite you to take a break.
And, of course, it’s worth making a longer stop in Schaffhausen. The city is the perfect end to the route and a contrast to the calm, lonely landscapes you explore on it. The fortification of Munot, the undisputed symbol of the city, is a popular destination – along, of course, with the Rhine Falls close by. The old town in Schaffhausen is car-free and its cafes and shops invite you to take a stroll. The ornate oriel windows and painted facades of the medieval buildings are impressive.
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 |
Schaffhausen
|
|---|---|
| Destination |
Schaffhausen
|
| Ascent |
500 m
|
| Descent |
500 m
|
| Distance |
30 km
|
| Distance on tarred ways |
27 km
|
| Distance on natural surface |
3 km
|
| Physical requirements |
Medium
|
| Signalization |
Signalisation in both directions
|
| More information | https://schweizmobil.ch/en/cycling-in-switzerland/... |
Quick Facts
Route number
