Switzerland’s most beautiful Baroque city and the holy number 11. Add to that the fog, which tends to linger over the 11 churches, 11 fountains, and 11 towers. That is how we imagine Solothurn – and that is how it often is. You will gladly leave the industrial area on the outskirts behind you and instead look forward to the peaceful Mittelland. Being on the road amidst fruits and vegetables may make you hungry. The lovely historic towns of Wangen an der Aare and Aarwangen couldn’t come at a better time. How about freshly caught Filets de Perche (Perch fillet) from the Aare River? Of course, a fire with grilled cervelat on the banks of the Aare would be nothing to scoff at either. Before Olten, in the Gunzgen Allmend, the beaver has become native again, leaving its traces everywhere. The ride through this cantonal nature reserve with its nationally significant spawning ground for amphibians is exciting.

The many power stations along the Aare River, for example, at Ruppoldingen, are fascinating and add variety to your journey. Sadly, despite recent improvements, lots of fish still get killed here due to stress or when passing through the water turbines. At Olten, the old covered wooden bridge is a sight to behold. The perfectly preserved old town is also well worth a visit. The nuclear power plant at Gösgen is steaming in the distance, bringing the cool Aare waters to a boil under high pressure.

The legs, however, shouldn’t be burning yet. The route along the Aare River to the canton’s attractive capital, Aarau, is flat and family-friendly. And just in case: at the Grien dam in the Aareschachen area, you can take a refreshing dip to regenerate your body. Shortly before Aarau, by the IBA islet, three Swiss national bike routes converge: the numbers 3 (North-South Route), 5 (Mittelland Route), and 8 (Aare Route). Don’t be surprised at the spirited exchange of experiences among cyclists.