Rheinfalls to Rheinau

Wow, summer has come early here! With temperatures around 30 degrees, it was definitely the right choice to head to the nearby, spectacular Rhein Falls.  They are so impressive at this time of year, even with less snow melt than usual.

Our pathway started with this view back at the raging torrents.

Quickly, the pounding of those hundreds of thousands of litres of water was a distant memory, instead we were strolling beside the gently flowing Rhein, enjoying the besutiful spring foliage and absolute tranquility.

What a haven from the midday sun the forest was. The colours of the river here reminded me of The Clutha. From autumn gold to intense green in the space of a week. Travel is simply amazing.

Occasionally this beautiful track towards Rheinau takes you away from the river and past horse paddocks, which were a magnificent sea of golden buttercups.

After a lomgish but varied walk, we neared our destination, just above Rheinau. The water flowing over the dam was pristine and looked so refreshing as we stood in the scorching heat. 

Schloss Rheinau looked stunning with its reflections in the Rhein. The wild flowers on the banks were so pretty.

The end of our walk was the very picturesque Rheinau Monastery, built in 778 and renovated 150 years back. Seeing it again brought back wonderful memories of a huge organic fair I worked at with one of my best friends years ago, selling fabulous organic dairy products. Itvwas a massive fair/market with hundreds of stalls offering the most delicious, locally-produced food. 

What a brilliant day by the mighty Rhein!