Castles around Bonaduz are situated in a region of Graubünden known for its dramatic natural landscapes and historical significance. The area is characterized by its location near the confluence of the Vorderrhein and Hinterrhein rivers, often referred to as the "birthplace of the Rhine." Visitors can explore medieval remnants and strategic viewpoints overlooking river valleys and gorges. This region offers a blend of historical sites and natural beauty.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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The history of the castle continued after its purchase by the Swiss expatriate community. In 1958, Hovag Domat/Ems, under Dr. Werner Oswald, bought Rhäzüns Castle. Since 1984, it has been owned by Ems-Chemie AG, with residential rights granted to the family of Silvia and Christoph Blocher. Therefore, it is not possible to visit the castle.
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A place of power in a special class
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Ruinaulta Rhine Gorge The Ruinaulta, or Rhine Gorge, is a gorge of the Vorderrhein River, up to 400 meters deep and approximately 13 kilometers long, between Ilanz and the mouth of the Hinterrhein River near Reichenau in the canton of Graubünden in Switzerland. The Romansh name 'Ruinaulta' is composed of the two words ruina (scree slope, quarry) and aulta (high). The Ruinaulta was formed after the Flims Landslide almost 10,000 years ago. At that time, over 10 billion cubic meters of rock broke off between the Flimserstein and Piz Grisch, burying the Vorderrhein Valley between the present-day villages of Castrisch and Reichenau under a mass of debris several hundred meters thick. Because the Vorderrhein River could no longer drain away, a lake was dammed over a length of approximately 25 kilometers. Over time, the river cut deep into the landslide, and the resulting lake drained away completely. What remained was the Ruinaulta, with its steep limestone scree cliffs in impressive erosion formations. Text / Source: Wikipedia https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruinaulta
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Schloss Reichenau At the confluence of the Hinterrhein and Vorderrhein, at the birthplace of the Alpine Rhine, lies the historic site of Reichenau. Reichenau already had great importance in the past: in the 14th century, as long-distance traffic over the Grisons Alpine passes increased significantly, two bridges and a customs house were built. Reichenau was considered a traffic hub, where all traffic could be controlled. In Reichenau, the routes of the north-south axis separate, along the Vorderrhein into the Oberland towards the Lukmanier and Oberalp passes, and along the Hinterrhein through the Domleschg via the Splügen and San Bernardino. Text / Source: Weinbau von Tscharner & Events Schloss Reichenau, Schloss Reichenau, Reichenauerstr. 59, 7015 Reichenau https://www.reichenau.ch/de/reichenau/geschichte-lage
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At the confluence of the Hinterrhein and Vorderrhein, at the birthplace of the Alpine Rhine, lies Reichenau Castle. Built in the 17th century by the episcopal ministerial family Schauenstein, it looks back on a long history. The last king of France even lived here once.
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Confluence of the Vorderrhein and Hinterrhein, Reichenau Dominated by Reichenau Castle, the hamlet lies at the confluence of the Vorderrhein and Hinterrhein rivers, making it virtually the birthplace of the Rhine. It all began 10,000 years ago. Between the Flimserstein (a high plateau) and Piz Grisch, over 10,000 cubic meters of rock broke off and thundered down into the valley. Towards Reichenau, the Vorderrhein valley disappears under a gigantic mass of rubble. From there, the Rhine diligently ate its way through the rock, creating the spectacular Swiss "Grand Canyon" – the Ruinaulta. Text / Source: myswitzerland.com https://www.myswitzerland.com/de-ch/erlebnisse/route/vom-zusammenfluss-der-rheine-in-die-rheinschlucht/
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very nice on sunny days
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When you cross the bridge you have a beautiful view of the confluence of the Vorderrhein and Hinterrhein. From here on the river is called just the Rhine and flows until it flows into the North Sea.
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Around Bonaduz, you'll discover a diverse range of castles. These include dramatic ruins like the Wackenau Castle Ruin, well-preserved historical sites such as Rhäzüns Castle and Rietberg Castle, and even castles repurposed as wineries, like Reichenau Castle.
For breathtaking views, the Wackenau Castle Ruin is highly recommended. It sits high above the Rhine, offering extensive views into the Ruinaulta canyon (Rhine Gorge). Rhäzüns Castle also provides impressive vistas from its position above the Hinterrhein.
Yes, Reichenau Castle, located at the confluence of the Vorderrhein and Hinterrhein rivers, operates as a winery today. You can take guided castle tours that often include wine tastings, blending history with local viticulture.
While many castles are accessible, Rhäzüns Castle is privately owned by the Ems Group and is not open to the general public for interior visits. However, its impressive exterior can be admired from a distance.
Yes, the Wackenau Castle Ruin is accessible via a roughly 20-minute walk from a car park west of Bonaduz, or from the RhB-Bahnstation Trin. This makes it a relatively easy and rewarding destination for a short walk.
The castles around Bonaduz are set amidst stunning natural beauty. You can experience the dramatic Rhine Gorge (Ruinaulta) near the Confluence of the Vorderrhein and Hinterrhein, which is also where Reichenau Castle is located. The strategic positions of castles like Wackenau and Rhäzüns highlight the region's river valleys and mountainous terrain.
Reichenau Castle is considered family-friendly, offering a blend of history and a unique winery experience. The walks to castle ruins like Wackenau can also be enjoyable for families, providing an outdoor adventure with historical exploration.
The region around Bonaduz offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including routes like the 'Wackenau Viewing Platform – View of the Rhine Gorge loop'. There are also extensive MTB Trails and Road Cycling Routes that pass by or near historical sites. For hiking, check out the Hiking around Bonaduz guide.
The best time to visit is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is mild and ideal for exploring the outdoor ruins and enjoying walks. During these months, the natural landscapes are vibrant, and castle tours, especially at Reichenau Castle, are in full swing. Winter visits can offer a different, often snowy, perspective but may have limited access to some sites.
For the Wackenau Castle Ruin, there is a car park located west of Bonaduz, from which it's about a 20-minute walk to the ruin. Parking availability for other castles may vary, so it's advisable to check specific locations beforehand.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of rich history and stunning natural scenery. The strategic locations of castles like Wackenau and Rhäzüns offer incredible viewpoints over the Rhine Gorge. The unique experience of visiting a working winery at Reichenau Castle is also a highlight for many.
Yes, beyond the immediate vicinity of Bonaduz, Schauenstein Castle in Fürstenau is another historically significant site. It played a crucial role in the region's political developments and has a rich past, though it is not a primary highlight in this guide.


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