SWITZERLAND - Europe by Eurail 2015: Touring Europe by Train - page 554

A medieval jewel set on the banks of the swift-moving Rhine River just above
Basel, Rheinfelden stirs the imagination. Much of its wall and many of its watch
towers are still standing, and they were erected back in the 11th century. An island
on the Swiss side of the river's channel forms an important part of a bridge linking
Switzerland to Germany. In the 13th century it was the site of the famed “Emperor's
Palace” described by Schiller in the tale of William Tell. The castle is gone now,
and the island serves mainly as a city park, but the swirls and eddies of the mighty
Rhine continue to stimulate one's sense of the centuries of history that have unfol-
ded there.
During World War II, the bridge over the Rhine was the center of intrigue and
mystery. Many downed but uncaptured American and British aviators seeking the
sanctuary of Switzerland attempted to flee Nazi Germany from there. Some made
it; some were apprehended. We have talked with residents who still remember
those days and the risks that were taken. One person recalled for us her perilous
escape across the Rhine's waters in a rowboat.
Be certain to pick up a city map during your stop at the tourist office. Armed with
the map, you can easily wind your way through the labyrinth-like streets to any
point of interest and still find your way back to the train station in time for your re-
turn to Bern.
Check out the shops lining the Rhine. Here you can find bargains in jewelry,
clothing, and sporting equipment. Most shops and restaurants are closed on
Monday.
When your stomach (or your watch) tells you it's lunchtime, you have several
excellent eating places to choose from in Rheinfelden. Our favorites are the Hotel
Schiff at Marktgasse 58 and the Café Confiserie Graf, at Fröschweid 14, close to
the river.