From Liestal railway station, the route takes a detour through the historic town past the Wehrmannsbrunnen (fountain), the Gothic city hall and to the upper gate dating back to the 13th century. Along the second leg of Via Gottardo, the focus is on railway history: Your first stop is at the Frenkenbrücke industrial monument, Switzerland’s oldest preserved railway bridge. In 2005, the last train crossed this 1854-built wrought-and-cast-iron truss bridge. At Altmarkt, known for its ancient crossing keeper’s hut, the rails of SBB and Waldenburger line separate. Nevertheless, Lausen plays a vital role in freight service. Here the route briefly leaves the valley bottom and climbs up to the reservoir. With views of the railway line, you reach Itingen and its compact row houses.

Less compact is the imposing, late-Baroque Ebenrain Castle at the entrance to Sissach. Built as a country estate by Basel-based silk manufacturer Martin Bachofen in 1774/75, it nowadays serves the Regierungsrat (cantonal government) as a venue for receptions. The park, courtyard and veranda are accessible to the public. At Sissach, the main SBB line Basel-Olten via the Hauenstein base tunnel separates from the old Hauenstein line, which will take centre stage for the rest of the hike. The old Hauenstein Tunnel is considered Switzerland’s first mountain tunnel and was even celebrated as the “fallen barrier of global transport” back in 1858. Various structures catch your eye along the route: embankments, bridges, retaining walls and tunnels. In addition to the Hauenstein summit tunnel itself, the viaduct near Rümlingen is particularly impressive. It is 128 metres long and consists of eight arches. This structure has often inspired artists such as Ferdinand Hodler. Under the viaduct, the route moves away from the railway line a second time.

After passing through Häfelfingen and along the forest edge, you can soon make out the ruins of Homburg Castle. It is accessible to the public, and the three-level fortified tower is imposing. The viewing platform offers sweeping views of the surrounding Jura mountains. Head downhill through the forest, and you’re almost at this leg’s final destination. During the walk you cannot fail to notice that the track is used by different train compositions: from the goods train up to the elegant high speed train. At the stage places Liestal, Sissach and Läufelfingen there are special information boards which inform about the times of walk and the railway history.