LITE

The twisting Aare grows more cosmopolitan as we pass through the larger, but little known cities of Olten and Aarau this morning. Olten’s majestic municipal tower and wide wooden bridge are icons of modernity. It’s not surprising that the town was a major train hub back in 1856. Aarau’s streets also deserve a stroll. Founded on a rocky outcropping over 700 years ago, Aarau soon became a city of artisans and has remained so to this day. Family run butchers, bakers and candlestick makers still thrive in Switzerland and Aarau has more than its fair share. Time for some shopping ?

Our path remains flat and follows the river in the afternoon, and although the Canton of Aargau may be Switzerland’s least mountainous, it’s quite diverse: well-wooded hills alternate with fertile valleys, all watered by the river that you’ve come to know so well.

One of our own favorite stops is at the church of Konigsfelden at Windisch. The church is widely thought to contain the most beautiful stained glass in all of Switzerland. It’s right on our path, so you be the judge.

We leave the Aare shortly after Windisch and overnight in the gorgeous town of Baden. As the name suggests, Baden is famous for its sulfur baths and you’ll have plenty of time to soak your legs in the reinvigorating water before going out for supper. If the weather is good, we’ll plan on eating in the city’s beer garden.

Images of today