The historic Swiss city of Basel (known as Bâle in French), located along the mighty River Rhine, grazes the border between France and Germany. It is a magnet for lovers of art and architecture, with a wealth of museums, galleries and iconic buildings.
For something a bit different to do in Basel, walk the 24 stops Rehberger Weg (Rehberger Way). Here’s my guide on how to get there, how to do it and what to see.
What is the 24 Stops Rehberger Weg?
In keeping with Basel’s artistic edge, the Rehberger Weg is a 5km art trail that links Switzerland and Germany and two cultural institutions, the Fondation Beyeler in Riehen and the Vitra Campus in Weil am Rhein.
This is a lesson in collaboration: between two countries, two communities and two esteemed art institutions. Combining walking with art, this trail is waymarked with 24 public art installations – 24 stops – created by the eponymous Tobias Rehberger.
Rehberger Weg’s stops are no ordinary waymarkers. These large, brightly-coloured waymarkers are sometimes functional, often amusing and always bold and beautiful. They are in stark contrast to their natural surroundings.
Ring the large brass bell to start the walk. Rest by the cuckoo clock, throw trash in the vibrantly painted rubbish bins or have a drink at the fountain.
Although not all of the art installations marking the way weren’t to my taste – most comprised wooden blocks painted in primary colours – the Rehberger Weg provides a great framework for a walk across two countries, and an excuse to take a peek at two very different art institutions
How to Get from Central Basel to Fondation Beyeler, Riehen
The starting point of the Rehberger Weg is at the Fondation Beyeler at Riehen, in the suburbs of Basel.
From Bahnhof Basel SBB (Basel’s Swiss station) take tram #2 towards Eglisee to the Basel, Badischer Bahnhof tram stop. Then change to tram #6 towards Riehen Grenze and alight at the Fondation Beyeler tram stop.
Walking the 24 Stops Rehberger Weg
You can pick up a free, detailed route map from the friendly tourist information office at Bahnhof Basel SBB or the museum counter in Fondation Beyeler and on the Vitra Campus. Alternatively, download a Rehberger Weg hiking map.
There is little shelter en route or an opportunity to top up drinking water. Bring plenty of sunscreen and water.
Fondation Beyeler, Riehen
The Fondation Beyeler, a museum of modern and contemporary art, is considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful museums.
The museum, designed by Renzo Piano, is located in an English park complete with mature trees, and water lily ponds, and effectively combines art with nature for a sensory experience.
Walking from Fondation Beyeler to Weil am Rhein
Take the path behind the museum. You will now amble through open countryside, past fields of corn ten feet high (it was approaching harvest time when I visited).
Crossing the River Weise, you reach the deserted border post between Switzerland and Germany, and the sleepy residential streets of Weil am Rhein.
Leaving the main street, you walk up a steep hill that brings you to rolling vineyards, each cultivating a different variety of grapes. This forms part of the wine route of Weil, or Weilweg.
Eventually, you take a path to your left that winds its way down to the Vitra Campus, which you will be able to see in the distance.
Vitra Campus, Weil am Rhein
The Vitra Campus, the endpoint of the Rehberger Weg, is best known for two things: its ensemble of contemporary architecture and furniture design, most notably Eames chairs.
Weil am Rhein train station is a 25-minute walk from the Vitra Campus. Alternatively, bus #55 will take you there. If you are returning to Basel, take tram #8 from the station.
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About Bridget
Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.
Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.
To get in touch, email her at hello@theflashpacker.net or follow her on social media.