Discover Enchenberg, Moselle, Lorraine: a Hidden Nature Gem

From North to South, discover the Pays de Bitche by bike. The greenway, which starts in Pirmasens in Germany, enters France at Walschbronn and follows the picturesque Horn valley, surrounded by forests and a succession of charming little villages. In Bitche the imposing citadel is worth a visit. The walk then continues southwards through the deep forests of the Vosges du Nord National Park to Saint-Louis-lès-Bitche.

This beautiful trail glides you through forest paths that will take you from springs to caves, showing some Gallo-Roman ruins along the way. The Cascade of the Undines is an idyllic natural site. The water from the stream at the top of the cliff flows down between boulders, forming a succession of small cascades. The sight is particularly impressive during the winter period, when the waterfalls turn into a curtain of ice. You will find other interesting sights on your way : - the grottos and sculptures - Small spring and sandstone wash houses along the way to cool off - The huge picnic table at the Bildmuehle - The little house of the Vosges Club for a little break. You can download the GPX track here : www.cirkwi.com/fr/circuit/185181-sentier-d-excellence-4-le-sentier-des-grottes

On this historical trail, you will discover the entire external defences of the Simserhof, one of the most important structures of the Maginot Line. The 8 fighting blocks, the gun turrets, the anti-tank rails and the 'pig tails' have remained unchanged since the end of the war. The fighting blocks around the Simserhof were intended to ensure the defence of the border. They all have cannons and machine guns. Positions 4 and 5 on this trail are particularly impressive. Along the path you will find explanatory panels about the Maginot Line. Picnic tables are set up near the Simserhof for a pleasant break. In season, the site is open to visitors and includes a cafeteria and a boutique. Download the GPX trail here: www.cirkwi.com/fr/circuit/185188-sentier-d-excellence-5-autour-des-blocs-de-combats-du-simserhof

There are plenty of things to discover along the clog-makers' trail, including rocks, caves and magnificent views over the village of Soucht. While you're in Soucht, take the opportunity to visit the Musée du Sabotier and discover clogs in all their forms. This lively, contemporary museum features an impressive collection of clogs. Very useful for agricultural work, clogs were also essential protection for glassmakers. Exhibitions, screenings and demonstrations of mechanical clog-making enliven the site from April to the end of October. Two picnic areas have been set up at the clogmaker's museum and the Soucht stadium. Download the GPX route here: www.cirkwi.com/fr/circuit/185189-sentier-d-excellence-7-sur-les-traces-des-sabotiers

The tranquility generated by the forest and water cascading can give way to emotion in front of the ruins of the Heidenkirche chapel of the fourteenth and last vestiges of a village now disappeared.

This wonderful hiking trail is a "must" of Bitcherland (Pays de Bitche)! After walking by the Hasselfurther pond and the Entenbaechel pond, a small winding path will lead you to the Hochkopf; it is considered the highest point of Bitche (429 metres). - The Hasselfurther pond is located near Bitche and is one of the most beautiful local water areas. The pond is suitable for sports and outdoor activities and attracts many nature lovers who come to relax there all year round. On site: a recreational park and a holiday village. - The fitness trail for sports enthusiasts - The cycle path through the forest from Bitche to Lemberg - The Horn River - The information boards explaining the local flora and fauna - The play and picnic areas along the Hasselfurther pond You can download the GPX track here : www.cirkwi.com/fr/circuit/185190-sentier-d-excellence-2-autour-de-l-etang-de-hasselfurth

This circuit, in the heart of the Butten forest, will lead you to discover traces from different periods, demonstrating ancestral occupation of the site: burials of the Iron Age, walled enclosure of the Gallo-Roman era, church of the 14th marking an abandoned village at the 15th, 17th and 18th century monuments and cenotaph of the 20th century.

This trail was created on the initiative of the association "Les Amis du musée Lalique". The trail is a looped circuit, marked out by the Club Vosgien, starting from the museum. It invites visitors and hikers to discover the emblematic sites of the glass city of Wingen sur Moder. This walk will delight young and old alike.

After a long journey following the course of the Moder from Wingen sur Moder, the arrival at Drusenheim will mark the end of your journey. You will sit on the banks of the Rhine and watch the ferryboat going back and forth between the two banks. The passing boats open your wandering mind and make you want to come back soon to discover more of the Rhine country. www.alsaceavelo.fr/itineraires/veloroutes-des-vallees-vosgiennes/veloroute-de-la-vallee-de-la-moder-180.html?

Discovering glass crafts! From the station car park, go to the Lalique Museum. Follow the white-barred yellow rectangle, and shortly before leaving the village, continue along the path that goes up to the right and leads to the Teutsch cemetery and then to Rosteig. Cross the creek and turn right into Schusselthal street. Continue on the Herrenwald forest road which leads to the forest house of the Column. Cross it and take the direction of Kammerfelsen (remarkable rock).250 m after the rock, turn right and follow the green ring until crossing with a red ring marked path. From there, possibility to go to the Museum of the Sabotier (250 m) following the latter on the left. Then go back and continue to Meisenthal, follow the green ringDown the alley of the Old Parish, follow the red ring that leads to the Museum of Glass and Crystal.Back to the museum, take the rue des pierres in front following the yellow cross and go to the Colonne by a path that climbs to the right. Then, go to the left of Calvary and join the Stone of the 12 Apostles after crossing the D37 carefully.Then take the direction of Wingen-sur-Moder. The marked blue triangle trail runs along the D12 for about 1 km before crossing and descending to the hamlet of Stauffersberg. Continue to Wingen-sur-Moder following the blue ring. On the way, you can go to the Heidenkopf Rock (beautiful panorama). The Lalique Crystal, installed here since 1921, can be seen entering Wingen (not to visit). Pass under the bridge of the railway and turn right in the street of the goldsmiths. At the intersection, go back to the station.

Discover Petite-France on a fun rickshaw tour! Your driver and guide will let you in on the secrets of this neighbourhood - which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Rickshaws are a unique way to get around and see all the key sites of Strasbourg in just 30 minutes! Your driver will do the pedalling while you enjoy the key sites of the "Petite-France" neighbourhood. Once you are comfortably seated on the rickshaw, your tour will start by a ride through the "Petite-France" neighbourhood, at the heart of the old town.  Marvel at typical half-timbering houses built right above the water. Let this quaint neighbourhood - which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site - captivate you! You will then be taken to the famous Barrage Vauban to enjoy a scenic view of the city. Discover Strasbourg's old fortifications, which consist in the 3 towers of the Ponts Couverts! Your driver will then take you to the "Aubette" shopping centre, a historic monument which is very popular among the locals. You will be captivated by its neoclassical façade towering over the famous Place Kléber.     This fun tour offers panoramic views combined with a fun way of seeing the city!

Enjoy this guided rickshaw tour to discover all of Strasbourg! Your driver and tour guide will let you in on the city's secrets! Rickshaws are a unique way to get around and see all the key sites of Strasbourg in just 1 hour and 20 minutes! Your driver will do the pedalling while you enjoy the city's key sites. Once you are comfortably seated on your rickshaw, you will start your tour by discovering the Palais Rohan. This magnificent monument with a classical façade has been classified as a historic monument. In 2009, it opened its doors to the most powerful world leaders on a NATO summit. You will then be taken to the Place Broglie to marvel at Strasbourg's stunning opera house. You will be captivated by its neoclassical façade, which has been classified as a historic monument! Your visit will continue with the Place de la République, where you will admire the relics of German architecture. This stunning square is home to the German imperial district's most iconic monuments. You will then enter into the heart of the German neighbourhood to discover its Haussmann-style avenues, the European sites and the Orangerie district. You will also get a glimpse at the headquarters of the French-German cultural TV channel: Arte.   Your tour will end by a ride through the "Petite-France" neighbourhood, at the heart of the old town. Marvel at typical half-timbering houses built right above the water. You will enjoy an exceptional scenic view on the terrace of the Barrage de Vauban. Let this quaint neighbourhood - which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site - captivate you! Pick this tour and visit all the key places of Strasbourg in an unusual and pleasant way!

Have a nice time on your rickshaw and enjoy this guided tour to discover Strasbourg in 1 hour! Discover Strasbourg's German imperial district on your rickshaw! Your driver will do the pedalling while you enjoy the city's key sites. Once you are comfortably seated on your rickshaw, you will start your tour by discovering the Palais Rohan. This magnificent monument with a classical façade has been classified as a historic monument. In 2009, it opened its doors to the most powerful world leaders on a NATO summit. You will then be taken to the Place Broglie to marvel at Strasbourg's stunning opera house. You will be captivated by its neoclassical façade, which has been classified as a historic monument! Your visit will continue with the Place de la République, where you will admire the relics of German architecture. This square is home to the German imperial district's most iconic monuments. You will then enter into the heart of the German neighbourhood to discover its Haussmann-style avenues, the European sites and the Orangerie district. You will also get a glimpse at the headquarters of the French-German cultural TV channel: Arte.  Explore Strasbourg's German district and discover its most beautiful monuments thanks to this tour!

Enjoy this guided rickshaw tour to discover Strasbourg's old town and the German imperial district! Your driver will let you in on the city's secrets during this tour! Discover the imperial district and Strasbourg's old town effortlessly thanks to your rickshaw driver! Your driver will do the pedalling while you enjoy the key sites of these neighbourhoods. Once you are comfortably seated on the rickshaw, your tour will start with Place Broglie, where you can marvel at Strasbourg's stunning opera house. You will be captivated by its neoclassical façade, which has been classified as a historic monument! You will then be taken to Place de la République to admire the relics of German architecture. On this square, you will see iconic monuments from the German era: the Prefecture building, the Palais du Rhin, the National Theatre of Strasbourg and the university library. Your tour will end with the discovery of the Palais Rohan. This magnificent monument with a classical façade has been classified as a historic monument. In 2009, it opened its doors to the most powerful world leaders on a NATO summit. Thanks to this tour, you will discover the two aspects of Strasbourg - French and German - in an unusual and pleasant way!

Museum Gaspar is housed in the residence of the middle-class family Gaspar from Arlon who had set up in this house (1893) that was built in 1842. It was renovated in 2004. The two most famous members of this family are animal sculptor Jean-Marie Gaspar (1861-1931) and Charles Gaspar (1971-1950) who was a photographer and a sponsor. He gave his house to the town of Arlon on the condition they make a museum of it, dedicated to his brother's work and that put into honour the history and the heritage of Arlon. At the first floor, theree are two restored salons identical to a middle-class salon from the early 20th century that show Jean-Marie Gaspar's sculptures. and the art and picture collection of Charles Gaspar. The rest of the first floor is dedicated to temporary exhibitions of the museum that alternates artv and history. A religion room shows collections about the abbey of Orval and to the people's devotion at the 18th century, and also relics from the ancient Saint-Martin church. But the Masterpiece is the famous altarpiece Retable de Fisenne - a 16th century masterpiece from the Antwerp school. Guided tours only on request by phone 063.600.654 or musee.gaspar@skynet.be (Original text by MT du Pays d?Arlon)This beautiful house was a bank at the origin. It was bought in 1893 by a middle-class family from Arlon, the family Gaspar. Jean Gaspar (1861-1931) was a sculptor. He was trained by the Antwerp sculptor Jef Lambeaux. His works are in bronze and in plaster and they are exhibited in the salons that have been restorated as they were in his house. His brother Charles (1871-1950) was a photographer, a collector and a sponsor. He gave this house to the town of Arlon. It hosts the library of the Archaeological Institute of the Belgian Province of Luxembourg and its secretary office since 1954. A wide part of the museum is also dedicated to temporary exhibitions about art and history of Arlon.

Rich in the Gallo-Roman past of Arlon, the museum houses an impressive collection that bears witness to the daily life of this period.One of the peculiarities of the museum is its imposing and rich lapidary collection, composed of several dozen fragments of ancient funerary monuments.These blocks and the objects from Roman craftsmanship will teach you more about daily life at that time.

The Chapel of Saint Verena protector of domestic animals is an important spiritual place in Pays de Bitche. It was built between the 1400's and 1500's and was extended several times. A pilgrim destination, the chapel's interior is adorned with several saints. One of which is St Verena, represented with a comb in her hand.

A museum amidst the oldest crystal factories in France! In the heart of the glass hall, surrounded by a sober architecture, a unique collection of 2000 incredible pieces illustrate the extraordinary talent which has made and continues to make Saint Louis famous throughout the world. Today, part of the Hermès group, the museography, illustrated with 20 videos, guides you through 4 centuries of Royal crystal. This is a fascinating museum for an art enthusiast that is enhanced by the visit around the workshops.

This sandstone rock which can be found not far from Lemberg, bears a scuplture whose origins relate without doubt to a funeral. In a rather crude execution, two characters smaller than an average human stature, are represented. they represent a couple of peasants: each one is housed in a niche. A smaller third figure, very roughly sculptured, can be found to the right. Triangular and cross signs are engraved in the bottom right hand corner of the rock. These are considered to be runic signatures. The rock used to be called "Drei Bilder Felsen". The name is Frenchified and translated as the Rocher des Trois Figures (the rock with three figures). The valley below is naturally known has "three figures valley" (Dreibilderthal).

The Ondines Waterfall was originally known as Wasserfelsen (water rock). This natural site is worth the detour. At the top, there is an old lavoir, a place for washing clothes. the wall was built in 1860, the same time that the railway linking lemberg and Bitche was built. from its source, the water flows over several plaques of sandstone forming beautiful waterfalls which are spactacular in winter. This little stream is the beginning of the Zinsel du Nord. Access: Can be reached by following the yellow circle signs down the steps from the Club Vosgien chalet at Lemberg.

Pilgrimages were made to Pauluskapelle (St Paul's Chapel) by the villagers from the glass industries of Meisenthal, Montbronn, Saint Louis-lès-Bitche and Soucht. From the latter, small objects of worship hanging from the trees marked the way to the chapel. The pilgrimages were often for Pentecost and Easter. The date engraved in the altar, 1866, indicates the date of construction. This is confirmed by the inscription made by 14 of the religious helpers. Every year, on the last Sunday in June, the association responsable for the protection of the chapel, organise the Pauluskapelle festival. The benefit is given to charity.

The Simserhof, one of the most important constructions of the Maginot Line, was built in the 1930s and offers an impressive insight into the Maginot Line today. During an interesting tour, you can experience the everyday life of the soldiers. The underground tour of the barracks allows you to discover spaces filled with the memory of the 876 men of the garrison: the barracks, the power station, the kitchens, the infirmary, the sanitary facilities, the command post and a firing chamber will fill your visit with emotion. The visit is only possible by reservation. To complement your visit, a 10 km outdoor trail around the battle blocks will show you the impassable defence line designed by the architects of the French defences in the early 1930s. The tour starts at the upper car park.

In the heart of the Pays de Bitche, the bison ranch will not fail to surprise you. For your pleasure, during the summer season, you can cross the plains where the herds graze in a safari truck in the form of a guided tour. Local bison burger available on certain booking days. Book your tour online here : www.ranchdesbisons.com/fr/page/safari ! On site, accommodation in chalets and sale of bison meat specialties (sausage, terrine, meat).

Nestling in the heart of a bucolic valley in the Bitcherland region, the former Meisenthal glassworks (1704-1969), now a converted industrial site, combines its technical, artistic and architectural heritage with contemporary creative expression. The visitor path invites you to unique encounters with masterpieces, artists, glassmakers and landscapes... The Musée du Verre celebrates with panache three centuries of glassmaking adventures in Meisenthal and the surrounding region. The Centre International d'art Verrier houses an exhibition gallery and a workshop dedicated to demonstrations by glassblowers. The Halle Verrière, a converted industrial cathedral, presents a rich programme of cultural and artistic events throughout the year. The boutique, nestling beneath the iconic concrete wave, offers a range of objects designed by contemporary designers and crafted on site.

At the start of the 20th century, Soucht, a small picturesque village nestled in the Northern Vosges, in a valley surrouned by forest, was the capital of clog making in Lorraine. Its contemporary museum made entirely of wood, takes you back in time. Once over the threshol, the odour of spruce leads you to the heart of the workshop where you can see demonstrations of the old artisan and mechanical techniques of the footwear of our ancestors. Discover: a remarkable collection of more than 200 pairs of clogs. For children: children are encouraged to discover the museum through educational games and activities. You can even borrow a pair of clogs free for the duration of the visit.

This red sandstone menhir is 5m high and dates back to the druidic period where it served as a sacrificial stone. Later in 1170, it was used as a boundary stone between Alsace and Lorraine. The 12 apostles that figure on all 4 sides date back to 1787. If you look carefully the royal arms of the Duke of Lorraine can be seen as well as the date 1609.

The Auberge Sainte Verene is in the small village of Enchenberg. In its warm friendly surroundings, the chef, a former associate to Lutz Janisch, the chef at the Strasbourg, will concoct refined local dishes.

This social bar is convivial for reunions and meetings. A great place for exchanging ideas and artistic expression.

This restaurant in the heart of the glass country, proposes regional French dishes. The restaurant also has a delivery service offering a wide selection of dishes.

In the heart of the valley leading to Bitche, this family restaurant serves delicious regional and local specialities. On the menu: local produce and French cooking

In this homely restaurant, past down through four generations, Bernard and Sylvie serve tradition French meals.

This homely restaurant is ideal for an evening among friends or with the family. Here they propose French cooking as well as the set menu. You can also order pizzas and tarte flambées (for sitting in or take away).

The Auberge des mésanges hotel restaurant is located on the edge of the forest in the glassmakers' valley in the village of Meisenthal. A warm and friendly atmosphere awaits you at this two-star hotel. Whether you're looking for a drink with a tarte flambée or a meal of regional Moselle specialities, you'll find something to suit every taste at the Auberge des mésanges.

This restaurant, nestled in the heart of the forest, invites you to enjoy traditional pizzas and flammekueche. Here, time seems to stand still.

In the hamlet to Schwangerbach, between Bitche and Lemberg, you can discover the local dishes as well as seasonal produce on their set menu.

This charming restaurant is in the centre of the village. Have a warm herbal tea or a hot chocolate after a walk in this historical valley of glass and clogs. Regional and traditional dishes are served here.

Located in the countryside, the Sequoïa guest house can accommodate up to 4 people. Sylvie and Yvon will be happy to welcome you and provide you with recommandations from the sites to visit to the walking trails in the area. Good to know: a veranda is attached to the house and includes a foosball table. It has a direct access to the large garden with barbecue. Minimum stay of two nights.

In the heart of the glass and crystal country, Bernadette welcomes you to Enchenberg, a quiet village in Pays de Bitche. This B&B, on the first floor, with its many flower displays has a separate entrance, 2 bedrooms and an en-suite fr children. Equipped kitchen, dining area, shared TV room. Play area for children.

A warm welcome is given to nature lovers in this charming house with a fenced garden. In a crystal manufacturing village, this family room includes 2 spacious bedrooms with refined decoration. baby furniture available. Access to internet and Wi-Fi. on supplement: sauna and hamman. Evening meals can be reserved: 18 euros per person.

A warm welcome is given to nature lovers in this charming house with a fenced garden. In a crystal manufacturing village, this family room includes 2 spacious bedrooms with refined decoration. baby furniture available. Access to internet and Wi-Fi. on supplement: sauna and hamman. Evening meals can be reserved: 18 euros per person.

Farm gite situated in a market garden

Farm gite situated in a market garden

Pleasant house with a covered terrace, view over a fenced-in shaded park with trees and a small flowing stream. Located in a forest valley, close to lakes and hiking paths.

Located in Saint-Louis-les-Bitche, the cradle of crystal, on the heights of the village and facing south, this flat has been completely refurbished. The flat has a fully equipped kitchen, a large shower room, separated toilets, a living room, a dining room and 2 bedrooms with 1 queen-sized bed and 1 king-size bed. It's less than 50 meters from the forest, and a garden area is accessible by going around the building. Air conditioning in the living room and dining room.

Located in Saint-Louis-les-Bitche, the cradle of the art of crystal in France, on the heights of the village, this 57 m² flat has been completely refurbished. It is located in a condominium on the ground floor. The flat has a large, south-facing 19 m² terrace with open views over the valley. It features a fully-equipped kitchen (dishwasher, microwave, oven, hob, fridge), a dining room, a bedroom with a double bed (180×200) and a sofa bed (160X190) in the living room, plus a bathroom with shower and whirlpool bath. Just 50 metres away from the forest, a garden area can be accessed by walking around the building.

Authentic country house surrounded by gardens. The warm atmosphere is enhanced by the open fire and wood burning stove. This gite which stays fresh in summer has a special award for its flower displays.