Thurweg, Stage 3/8

The canalised river Thur winds its way through the valley and past the pretty little town of Lichtensteig with its arcades. At the ruined castle at Rüdberg, there are breathtaking long-distance views of the river. You will arrive in Bütschwil via a suspension bridge, while an old wooden bridge in Lütisburg will take you back to the river Thur.

The walk, which takes just under seven hours, begins at Wattwil railway station. The yellow-waymarked trail leads out of the town and through the open, rolling countryside to Lichtensteig. Passing hamlets, meadows and stretches of woodland, the route continues towards Dietfurt. At Dachstobel, the medieval ruins of Rüdberg stand directly beside the trail.

After Bütschwil, the route climbs to Chapf. At around 670 m, this is the highest point, with expansive views across the open countryside. Shortly afterwards, the trail follows the Bitzibach. Meadows, small settlements and strips of woodland then once again characterise the changing scenery between Grämigen, Lütisburg Station and Lütisburg.

The final section leads over gently undulating terrain via Jonschwil to Schwarzenbach SG. Despite around 660 metres of ascent, the trail remains technically easy; it is above all the distance of 25 kilometres that requires stamina. The destination is some distance from public transport. The nearest stop, Schwarzenbach SG, Thurbrücke, is around 300 m away.