The Rhine Falls

The Rhine Falls are the most powerful waterfall in Europe, where the young Rhine plunges over a wide ledge in a thundering, foaming cascade some 150 metres across and 23 metres high. Viewing platforms cling to the cliffs on either bank, boats venture into the spray, and a daring path even climbs a rock pinnacle standing defiantly in the very middle of the torrent.

What's there

• The thundering falls - the wide, powerful cascade of the Rhine.
• The clifftop platforms - the viewpoints jutting over the water.
• The central rock - the pinnacle in the middle you can climb by boat.
• Schloss Laufen - the castle above the falls with the best viewpoints.

When to go

Late spring to summer, when the falls run fullest with snowmelt and the boats operate; early summer brings the highest flow. The viewpoints are open year-round, but the boats and best weather are in the warm season.

Good to know

It is Europe's most powerful falls by volume rather than a tall, dramatic drop, so manage expectations if you imagine a towering cascade. It is popular and the best viewpoints and boat rides are ticketed. The full flow of early summer is the most impressive.

Nearby

The old town of Schaffhausen and Lake Constance are close; Zurich is a short train ride south.

Key facts