Heritage Stories · Europe
Down the Rhine: The Swiss Mennonite Exodus
OVERVIEW
Down the Rhine: The Swiss Mennonite Exodus
June 2 - 10, 2026
From $4,245 USD / $5,835 CAD
This 9-day journey follows the path of Swiss and Alsatian Anabaptists—families whose faith and convictions led them to be exiled from their homelands and floatdown the Rhine River in search of refuge and peace. Along this unforgettable route, explore powerful landscapes and historic towns, discover stories of resilience and hospitality, and walk in the footsteps of those who shaped the Mennonite and Amish identities.
Special attention will be given to family names with deep ties to these regions and stories—including Beachy, Bontrager, Gingerich, Gnagy, Hostetler, König/King, Mast, Shrock/Schrag, Stucki, Stutzman, Yoder —while warmly welcoming anyone interested in the Anabaptist faith legacy, shared migration history, and meaningful intercultural experiences.
John Sharp & JB Miller
Tour Experts
9 Days
Duration
Netherlands, Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria
Countries Visited
Moderately Active
Activity Level
Trip Highlights
Follow the Path of Migration – Journey from Zurich to Amsterdam along the historic Rhine River route taken by Swiss and Alsatian Anabaptists.
Discover Stories of Resilience – Explore towns and regions that shaped Mennonite and Amish identities through faith, exile, and perseverance.
Connect with Ancestral Roots – Learn about family names and histories tied to this migration, including Beachy, Gingerich, Yoder, and more.
Experience Rich Culture and Heritage – Visit historic churches, scenic river valleys, and vibrant European cities.
Reflect and Renew – Deepen your appreciation for the enduring legacy of faith, community, and hospitality.
DAY 1 • June 2, 2026
Zurich
Zurich & Anabaptist Origins
Arrive in Zurich and join fellow travellers with a mid afternoon walking tour of the city’s Old Town featuring the Grossmünster Church—birthplace of the Swiss Reformation.
DAY 2 • June 3, 2026
Interlaken
Susten Pass & the Bernese Oberland
Reformation City to Hidden Worship Sites Travel into the hills to visit the Bäretswil Anabaptist Cave, a hidden site of early worship. Pass through Grüningen and Zollikon, locations of the first adult baptisms. Ascend the Susten Pass, one of the most breathtaking alpine routes in Switzerland, passing the Stein Glacier and rugged cliffs that echo the hardships of Anabaptist exile.
DAY 3 • June 4, 2026
Sumiswald
Alpine & the Emmental
Begin the day with an Alpine ascent up the Stockhorn mountain. In the afternoon, travel through the Emmental, homeland to many Mennonite ancestors. Drive through pastoral farms, and tour Trachselwald Castle, where persecuted Anabaptists were imprisoned before exile.
DAY 4 • June 5, 2026
Strasbourg
Alsace – Montbéliard, Peace Oak & Mennonite Homesteads
Refuge in a Storybook Landscape Travel across the border into France and visit Montbéliard, a duchy that offered refuge to Swiss Anabaptists in the 17th century. Then continue into the Vosges foothills to see the Peace Oak of Salm, symbol of asylum for Amish and Mennonite refugees. If available, stop at the Küperschmitt/Gerber farmhouse, preserving Alsatian Mennonite rural life.
DAY 5 • June 6, 2026
Worms
Strasbourg to Worms
Begin the day in Strasbourg with a visit to the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral and a stroll through the charming Petite France district, known for its half-timbered houses and winding canals. In the afternoon, travel to Worms to explore the Luther monument - an essential chapter in the story of faith and conviction that shaped Europe.
DAY 6 • June 7, 2026
Cologne (Köln)
Weierhof Mennonite Village & Rhine Cruise
Visit the historic Mennonite community of Weierhof, where local historians share stories of faith, endurance, and connection across generations. Explore the archives that preserve centuries of Anabaptist heritage before enjoying a scenic Rhine River cruise from St. Goar to Boppard, passing legendary castles and vineyard-covered hills. Continue on to Cologne for the evening.
DAY 7 • June 8, 2026
Amsterdam
Cologne to Amsterdam
Travel from Cologne to Amsterdam, where the story of the Dutch Mennonite hospitality unfolds. Learn how compassionate congregations in the Netherlands welcomed and supported Swiss Anabaptists seeking refuge, helping shape the next chapter of the Mennonite journey to North America.
DAY 8 • June 9, 2026
Amsterdam
Refuge and Flourishing
Explore Amsterdam’s deep Mennonite roots with visits to the historic Singel Mennonite Church and Dam Square. Later, enjoy world-class art at the Rijksmuseum before free time to wander the canals and share a farewell dinner with fellow travelers.
DAY 9 • June 10, 2026
Amsterdam
Departure
Reflect on the meaningful stories, landscapes, and connections shared along the way as you bid farewell to new friends and the rich heritage of this unforgettable journey.
Pricing
Registration By:
Early Bird Rate until February 2, 2026
After February 2, 2026
Double Occupancy:
$4,245 USD | $5,835 CAD
$4,495 USD | $6,185 CAD
Single Occupancy:
$4,990 USD | $6,860 CAD
$5,240 USD | $7,210 CAD
Inclusions
9 nights hotel accommodations in premium quality properties
Coach transportation within tour, group transfers
All breakfasts and dinners
Expert tour leaders and local guides
All entrance fees included in itinerary
Tips and donations
Water with Dinner
Exclusions
International airfare and any associated fees
Airport transfers
Lunches & optional activities
Beverages with meals
Schengen Visa
Visas (if required)
Tour Experts
John Sharp
JB Miller
Questions?
Reach out to our team at office@tourmagination.com
or by phone at (877) 668-2732.