Old Rhine Bridge

Between Vaduz and Swiss Sevelen, a covered wooden bridge crosses the Alpine Rhine - 135 metres of timber trusses built in 1901, the last surviving wooden span over the river that once carried many. Cars were banned decades ago, so crossing it now is a stroll or cycle through filtered light with the grey-green Rhine sliding underneath, and a painted border line midway where you can stand in two countries at once. It is a small pleasure rather than a spectacle, and exactly the kind of thing the Rhine valley cycle route makes easy.

What you actually see

• The covered crossing - timber trusses and river views through the openings.
• The border line - one foot in Liechtenstein, one in Switzerland.
• The Rhine itself - the alpine river running fast and grey-green below.
• The cycle route - the valley path the bridge belongs to.

When to go

Any season - the cover keeps rain off and winter gives the emptiest crossing. Late afternoon light through the timber is the photogenic hour. Spring melt puts the most water under the boards.

Honest expectations

It is a ten-minute experience and proudly so - come as part of a walk or ride, not as a destination. Cyclists share the narrow deck with walkers; give way politely. There is no passport moment: the border is open and unmarked beyond the painted line.

Nearby

Vaduz centre, the Rhine dam paths and Swiss Sevelen across the water.