Having not found a stamp in Schwarzenburg and seeing a church on the hill outside of the town, we decided to visit. There have been so few churches since we left Gümligen. Shortly before the assent to the church, we saw a brown 'Jakobweg' sign which would indicate that this church is indeed on The Way. It was well worth the visit and the views over the Jura from it's platform, were well worth the climb. We rang the bell at the Pastor's house and asked if he had a stamp - he did and said that we were the first pilgrims to have asked for it! He indicated the way to Sodbach bridge and we set off across the fields (there is no offical indication). The Roman road leading to the bridge is amazing and gives one a real sense of following in ancient footsteps. Indeed the road continues after the crossing of the bridge (which is a cantonal border) up to a modern wayside shrine to St.James. On the left hand side of the walk up is a statue of the Virgin. The path continues towards Heitenreid passing by the first houses and then turning off to visit the church of St.Michael. On entering the church, we were greeted with beautiful piped music and lovely Christmas decoration and Creche scene. (Heitenreid also had a beautiful stamp). Having walked the offical way from Schwarzenburg on previous occasions, we would highly recommend a detour to Wahlern. (The offical route does not go past Wahlern which is a great mistake as it is worth a visit and the view point is splendid.)
