This stage of the Via Jacobi is a delightful walk that runs from the banks of the Sense, which forms the border with the canton of Bern in Sodbach, at the banks of the Sarine.
You arrive in the canton of Fribourg by descending from Schwarzenburg to the “Sodbachbrücke”, via a sunken lane carved into the molasse and carefully paved with pebbles taken from the river. The grooves that were used as guides for the wheel hubs are still visible. There are numerous sacred monuments along the way after you pass the bridge that juts out over the Sense. The neo-Gothic church in Heitenried, built in 1905, houses a magnificent carved wooden altar. You will also pass close to the Weiterlingen chapel, dedicated to Saint Apollonia. The neo-Romanesque church in Saint-Antoine, built in 1893-94, incorporates the old Baroque chapel dedicated to Saint Anthony the Hermit. After walking along the Taverna, you will reach Tafers and its Sensler Museum, which tells the story of the region’s life and culture over the centuries. The path continues pleasantly via the Maggenberg towards Fribourg and its mediaeval Old Town, which is definitely worth a visit.
Tip: a trip to the Sensler Museum is essential if you are keen to discover the origins of Sensler culture.
Accessible by public transport: yes
Accessible by car: yes