Via Alpina Étape 1 : Vaduz - Sargans

The place

#### Descent from Gaflei and Crossing the Rhine The descent begins at the Gaflei observation tower woods, a starting point located above the former spa establishment of the Principality of Liechtenstein. The path, offering a splendid view of the Swiss Alps, winds through twisted conifers, golden meadows and dense forests, descending into the valley through a series of picturesque and historic bends. #### The Via Alpina: A Long-Distance Hiking Trail Distance: 390 kilometres. Waypoints: 14 alpine passes. Elevation loss to Schalun: 860 metres - half of the descent. #### Heritage and History Along the way, the ruins of Schalun castle rise up, bearing witness to its illustrious past dating back to the late 12th century. The descent then leads to Vaduz castle, the princely family's residence since 1938 and a distinctive symbol of Liechtenstein, overlooking the capital. #### Bridge and Border: Alte Rheinbrücke The route crosses Vaduz and heads towards the Rhine. The Alte Rheinbrücke bridge, the last surviving wooden bridge in the alpine Rhine valley, establishes a historic link between Vaduz and Sevelen. #### Towards Sevelen and Sargans The route continues along the main road, passing the remains of Procha-Burg and through picturesque villages such as Fontnas and Azmoos. Trübbach is reached after about a two-hour walk through the forest. Further on, the path passes the former Gonzen iron mine before arriving at Sargans castle, a historic monument preserved by the commune in the late 19th century. #### End of the Stage: Sargans Station The arrival at the final stage of this section of the Via Alpina takes place at Sargans station, marking the end of this first long stage and preparing hikers for the pass crossing to come.