In Flaach, different interests lead to different discoveries: Thurauen reveals a river that can once again meander freely, while the Flaacherfeld has cycling and hiking trails through an agricultural landscape. The Thurauen Nature Centre, trails and viewpoints each offer their own focus; the castle and church add local history to a visit to nature. This lets you decide how to balance landscapes, activity and architectural history during your stay.
Thurauen: a river in motion
As part of the “Flood Protection and Floodplain Landscape at the Thur Estuary” project, the Thur’s riverbed was restored to a natural state along the final kilometres before its confluence between 2008 and 2017. The Thur can once again meander freely there, and the surrounding floodplain can be inundated during high water. The river and floodplain together shape the landscape experience: the river has room to change, while flooding is part of the restored floodplain landscape.
The Thurauen observation tower has viewing platforms at heights of eight and twelve metres. From there, you can observe nature and enjoy panoramic views. Another perspective is offered by a platform above a former channel of the Thur: from there, visitors can look into a natural forest reserve left to develop on its own. With a little luck, you may also spot a beaver there. A sighting is possible, but not guaranteed.
Discover trails and nature themes on foot
In the Flaacherfeld, an agricultural landscape meets cycling and hiking trails. The municipality specifically describes exploring the landscape on foot as an activity for families, too. One family hike with a clearly defined route is the Thurauen Adventure Trail: it is 2.6 kilometres long, open year-round and has 14 interactive stations. The trail starts and ends at the EllikerbrĂĽcke car park. Its length, number of stations and start and end points provide a clear framework for planning.
The WWF Beaver Trail focuses on one particular animal. Its ten information stations cover the European beaver and its habitat. By contrast, the Adventure Trail features 14 interactive stations without a single prescribed theme. If you are also interested in a route linking several nature centres, the Via Natura offers one: the hiking trail connects five nature centres in the canton of Zurich. The first stage between Thurauen and Neeracherried opened in spring 2022.
Exhibitions and activities at the Nature Centre
The interactive exhibition “The World of Floodplains” at the Thurauen Nature Centre explains the Thur’s revitalisation and introduces visitors to typical inhabitants of the floodplain. The exhibition can be explored independently during opening hours, together with the nature trail. Check the current opening hours before your visit so you can plan your stay accordingly.
There is also a puzzle activity for groups: in and around the Nature Centre, participants can solve riddles and crack a code to help Prof. Diptera. Availability may vary by season; check before travelling. The activities at the Nature Centre therefore differ: the exhibition and nature trail teach visitors about the floodplain, while the group puzzle offers a shared challenge.
The castle and church as historical landmarks
Following its renovation from 1985 to 1989, Flaach Castle displays its original appearance. It is protected by the Swiss Confederation and the Canton of Zurich. Today’s church in Flaach was built in 1610–1611; its tower was added in 1619. At the church, the original construction date and the later addition can be distinguished chronologically. Together, the castle and church offer a different way to experience Flaach than its trails and nature-watching opportunities.
Plan your trip to the Nature Centre
The Thurauen Nature Centre can be reached by PostBus route 675 via Henggart or Rafz. The “Flaach, Ziegelhütte” stop is about an eight-minute walk from the centre. The walking time is approximate; check the current timetable for your journey. If you are looking for a hotel in Flaach, you can base your choice on the experiences that matter most during your stay and include the connection to the Nature Centre in your plans in advance.
Discover more destinations: Berg am Irchel, Rheinau, Andelfingen, Buch Am Irchel, Adlikon, Flurlingen, Dachsen, Humlikon.
Back to the regional travel overview: Andelfingen.
