Ancient Island Walk
8 Jan 2023 by Amby
There aren’t loads of things to do in Stein am Rhein, especially when we went in winter where the monastery and witch’s tower were both closed.
We decided to take a walk to a small island about 15 minutes away to look at a little church, Wallfahrtskapelle St. Otmar. Although it’s a short distance away, it’s technically in another canton and village.
The walk goes along the river with nice trees and scenery, eventually crossing a wooden bridge. Seagulls are perched on either side of the bridge and are very cute.
The church and island are small but have a rich history, with evidence of prehistoric human habitation. The first abbot of the monastery of St. Gallen died on this island in 759! The current chapel is from the 10th century.
Today monks live in the building hosting the church, but tourists can visit the church and attend services.
There’s also a labyrinth for meditation next to the church, Bry had never walked one before so he enjoyed the new experience!
We headed back after about a half hour. It wasn’t the most exciting side quest but it’s worth stopping by if you’re out of ideas at Stein am Rhein.
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