ViaGottardo, Stage 8/20

The interplay of medieval towers, transport structures, churches and chapels, the NEAT, motorway, railway tracks, engineered roads and pack-animal trails make the hike through the Urner Reusstal valley a fascinating journey through eight centuries of history.

From the Altdorf UR, Telldenkmal bus stop, the yellow-marked hiking trail leads out of the cantonal capital and into the Reusstal. After a short descent, the route follows the Reuss for long stretches. Open meadows, patches of woodland and settlements alternate along the way. Near Erstfeld, the Jagdmattkapelle stands directly beside the trail; later, the route passes through Silenen to Amsteg. At 28 kilometres, with around eight hours of walking and a good 1,000 metres of ascent, the tour above all requires stamina.

Beyond Amsteg, the trail continues up the valley in a steady succession of ascents and descents, still alternating between open stretches, woodland and small settlements. The Reuss remains a constant companion until shortly before the destination. At Pfaffensprung, the route leads directly along the shore of the small reservoir. The final ascent to Wassen follows. Near the parish church of St. Gallus, the hike reaches its highest point at around 900 m. From here, it is only a few steps to the Wassen, Dorf bus stop.