Best waterfalls around Laufen-Uhwiesen are centered around the Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall by volume. This natural landmark is situated on the High Rhine, bordering the cantons of Schaffhausen and Zürich. The area offers various vantage points and trails to experience the power of the falls. Laufen-Uhwiesen provides access to this significant natural spectacle.
Last updated: October 4, 2026
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The Schlössli Wörth (12th century castle with restaurant) was closed on December 22, 2024 for an indefinite period (for the purpose of handing over the catering business)
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This single-track bridge was built in 1856 and expanded in the late 1950s with pedestrian walkways on both sides. It is an important traffic structure and, at the same time, a popular photo motif for visitors. The bridge spans the river at an angle of about 55 degrees and offers a beautiful view of the Rhine Falls and the surrounding landscape.
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Lots of adventure options, but not cheap and very overcrowded on nice weekends.
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The Rhine Falls, formerly also called the Great Laufen, is one of the three largest waterfalls in Europe.
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Great view of Laufen Castle from the Rhine bank hiking trail.
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The Rhine bridge at Laufen (also called Rheinfallbrücke) is a single-track railway bridge of the Rheinfallbahn, which spans the Rhine in Switzerland between Laufen-Uhwiesen and Neuhausen, above the Rhine Falls. The structure dates from 1856 and was extended at both sides with pedestrian walkways at the end of the 1950s. From the bridge, you have great views of the Rhine Falls.
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The Rhine Falls Bridge between the Swiss communities of Neuhausen and Laufen is a single-track railway bridge of the Rhine Falls Railway, spanning the Rhine above the Rhine Falls over a length of 155 meters and a height of around 10 meters. The structure dates back to 1856 and was expanded at the end of the 1950s to include pedestrian walkways on both sides. The opening of the Rhine Falls Railway from Winterthur to Schaffhausen in 1857 opened up the Rhine Falls region to modern traffic for the first time and also ensured the rise of tourism at the Rhine Falls themselves.
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For more than 1100 years, Laufen Castle at the Rhine Falls has witnessed many social and political upheavals. Not infrequently, due to its privileged location, it was itself the focus of disputes. 858: first mention The Rhine Falls - at that time "big Lauffen" - gives the castle its name. The ancestral seat of the Barons of Laufen subsequently had many owners, including the Bishop of Constance, the All Saints Monastery in Schaffhausen and the Counts of Kyburg. Source: https://www.schlosslaufen.ch/de/das-schloss/schloss-geschichte/
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The primary natural attraction is the Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall by volume. It spans 150 meters in width and plunges 23 meters in height, with up to 600,000 liters of water per second cascading down in summer.
You can get impressive views from various platforms. The southern bank, home to Schloss Laufen, offers an excellent perspective, including a panoramic glass lift and the Belvedere panoramic trail. Another popular spot is the View of the Rhine Falls, which provides high-altitude perspectives from Laufen Castle.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. The Rhine Falls Adventure Trail runs directly above the falls, offering an immersive experience. Additionally, you can find various easy to moderate hiking trails, such as the Rhine Riverside Trail, which provide different vantage points. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Laufen-Uhwiesen.
The Rhine Falls are impressive year-round, but they typically have the most water at the beginning of summer due to snowmelt, making for a particularly powerful display. The falls are also illuminated in the evening, except during a full moon, offering a magical perspective.
Absolutely. The Rhine Falls area is very family-friendly, offering activities beyond just viewing the falls. There's an adventure park for children, and many viewpoints and trails are suitable for families. Highlights like the Rhine Falls and View of the Rhine Falls are categorized as family-friendly.
Yes, the area features historical sites. On the southern bank of the Rhine Falls, you'll find Schloss Laufen, which offers impressive views and includes a visitor center. On the opposite side, Schloss Wörth, a 12th-century castle on a small Rhine island, now houses a restaurant and offers a great view of Laufen Castle.
Boat tours are a popular way to experience the Rhine Falls up close. You can take a boat to the heart of the falls, the mighty central rock, and even climb steps to a viewing platform for a unique 360-degree perspective. Other tours can take you to Schloss Wörth on the opposite bank.
Access to the northern bank of the Rhine Falls is free. On the southern bank, admission to Schloss Laufen costs 5 Swiss francs, which includes entry to the castle and access to various viewing platforms. The area is well-equipped with amenities, including a panoramic glass lift at Schloss Laufen to enhance accessibility.
Beyond hiking, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can explore cycling routes, such as the 'Rhine Falls route,' or gravel biking trails. For more detailed information on routes and sports, check out the cycling guide and gravel biking guide for Laufen-Uhwiesen.
Yes, the area around the Rhine Falls is well-equipped with amenities. Schloss Laufen on the southern bank includes a visitor center, shops for souvenirs, and various dining options. Schloss Wörth also houses a restaurant, a snack bar, and a souvenir shop.
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the immense scale and power of the Rhine Falls, often describing it as an impressive natural spectacle. The diverse viewing platforms and the opportunity to get close to the thundering waters via boat tours are also highly valued experiences.
While specific dog-friendly policies can vary by exact trail or indoor facility, the general outdoor areas and many trails around the Rhine Falls are typically accessible for dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.


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