Discover Roppenheim, Bas-Rhin, Alsace and its gems

This looped hiking trail takes you from Roppenheim to Neuhaeusel through a flat landscape, typical of the North Ried, marked by the predominance of cereal cultivation. A few metres below your steps, Europe's largest groundwater table slowly flows towards the Rhine. On the way there, on a clear day, you will see the Black Forest in the distance and its highest northern peak: the Hornisgrinde (1163 m), easily visible on its television tower. On the way back, the last foothills of the Northern Vosges emerge on the horizon. Roppenheim and its surroundings were for a long time owned by the lords of Fleckenstein who had a castle and a hunting lodge. Traces remain of the church of Saint Michel, its presbytery and its half-timbered tithe barn. Surrounded by the Rhine forest, the village of Neuhaeusel developed in the second half of the 17th century, during the construction of the Fort-Louis fortification by Vauban, for which the inhabitants made bricks and tiles. Fishing, inland navigation and agriculture then took over until the middle of the 20th century. Traditional peasant houses still exist there. And if you like contrasts, the route passes not far from the "The Style Outlets" Brand Centre where you can, once again, shop at leisure in its brand stores. Route description: ignrando.fr/fr/parcours/45434-pr9-une-histoire-de-style-a-67-roppenheim

This tour takes you from Roeschwoog to Moder. Around Roeschwoog, starting on your right, you will find a flat landscape, typical of the North Ried. A landscape of meadows, fields and groves, with some ponds and agriculture is mainly cereal, corn and wheat. After a return to Roeschwoog, your route turns south and offers you an unobstructed view. Above the green line, on the horizon, stands the Black Forest and its highest northern peak, the Hornisgrinde (1,163 m), recognizable by its television tower. Then to the east, you pass near Fort Alsace. With the Fort Carré, and further east the Fort Marquisat, now disappeared, they are part of the Fort Louis fortification built by Vauban from 1687 onwards. Another specific and signposted circuit also passes through it: "Les Forts au fil de l'eau" (departure from Fort-Louis or Neuhaeusel). The route follows the banks of the Moder River. This river has crossed all of northern Alsace to become, here, a forest river with a very rich specific fauna and vegetation and rare species. It is a protected site. At the beginning of the meander, turn left towards Roeschwoog, an old fishing village whose inhabitants had once made bricks and tiles for the Fort Louis fortification. He was already busy at the end of the Bronze Age. The Romans then the Merovingians followed. In the Middle Ages, hemp was rusted in the surrounding ponds and marshes. Then wars and successive unrest affected its evolution until the middle of the 20th century. Many 18th century houses remain, including a few half-timbered houses in rue de la Gare. Today, the municipality, located in the centre of Uffried, is committed to promoting trilingualism (French/German/alsacien), like the Alsatian writer, novelist and poet André Weckmann, whose intermunicipal school is proudly named after him. Esch's net scheen unser Ländel? (Isn't our region beautiful?) Route description: ignrando.fr/fr/parcours/83926-pr-8-weckmann-et-la-moder-a-roeschwoog-67

As the trail crosses the railway lines Strasbourg - Roeschwoog - Lauterbourg - Karlsruhe (D), Strasbourg - Haguenau - Wissembourg - Winden (D) - Neustadt/W. (D) and Strasbourg - Niederbronn-les-Bains - Bitche, it is possible to walk it in sections and easily return to the starting point.

Departure in Leutenheim: at the Town Hall, rue Principale. Marked out and with little difference in altitude, this loop circuit can be followed indifferently in each direction. To the west, he walks through the forests bordering that of Haguenau. It is a special protection area "Natura 2,000", extending from the Heidenberg mound in the south, with its Maginot Line shelter, to the hamlet of Koenigsbruck in the north. As of the In the 12th century, at the crossroads of the river with the ancient Roman road leading to Seltz, there was a Cistercian abbey of women, with all its outbuildings, including a mill, and small houses for the staff serving the monastery. The abbey was looted during the Peasants' War and then during the Thirty Years' War and completely destroyed during the French Revolution. A sawmill has replaced the mill. The Sauer passes through this place. This river comes from the Palatinate, crosses the northern Vosges and the Haguenau forest and accompanies you to Forstfeld, one of the three villages that, together with Kauffenheim and Leutenheim, dot the North Ried plain in an almost perfect alignment. Here you are in a flat landscape, with meadows, fields and woods, gravel pits, ponds and ditches. Forstfeld was already occupied in the early Iron Age and then in Roman times. At the northern end of the circuit, you walk along the Forstfeld alder forest, a "reserved biological reserve". To the south of this village, another river joins the Sauer: it is the Eberbach, a forest river that drains the water table of the Haguenau forest and that your tour runs along its right bank from Kauffenheim to Leutenheim. The small village of Kauffenheim has beautiful half-timbered houses, typical of the North level, with street gable, hipped roof, awning belt and half-timbering to the ground. The church dates back to the 12th century. Then, just a stone's throw away, Leutenheim also offers you beautiful half-timbered houses. Route description: ignrando.fr/fr/parcours/83925-pr-7-entre-eberbach-et-sauer

To discover the typical villages. From the Staedly recreation area, head for Roeschwoog railway station and head for Leutenheim. Pass through this peaceful community where the half-timbered houses are colourful and jealously maintained. Take the road to the hamlet of Koenigsbruck leaning against the forest of the same name. Continue towards Forstfeld. At the end of the village, the imposing mill building (recently closed) marks the signal to head in the direction of Kauffenheim. In this commune time seems to be suspended so that you can watch out for the appearance of an Alsatian woman in traditional costume. Retrace your steps to reach Roppenheim. The imposing and massive bell tower, pierced with loopholes, would be the remnant of an old castle or even a Roman fortress. Adjoining the church is a beautiful and rare 18th century half-timbered ensemble forming the tithe barn. Continue to Neuhaeusel, a former fishing village. Join Roeschwoog and end the tour by discovering the baroque church, the numerous restaurants, the Batiston residence (town hall) and the intriguing sphinxes in the town hall park. Layout of the circuit : www.openrunner.com/r/10119223 GPS track : goo.gl/maps/yv42v8ybnur

Discover a city created by Vauban. Starting from the Staedly leisure area, drive to the centre of Roeschwoog, then on to Roppenheim for a visit to the 16th century church, the exteriors of the presbytery, the tithe barn and the adjoining town hall. The road lined with fruit trees will take you across fields to Neuhaeusel and then to the Rhine riverside. Follow the Rhine to Fort-Louis. The layout of the village was designed by the famous architect of Louis XIV's fortifications. Note that all the streets are straight and intersect at right angles. This model, instigated by Vauban during the second half of the 16th century, served as a basis for the great cities of the United States of America. Take the time to walk around the fortress and immerse yourself in this place steeped in history thanks to the information panels. Leaving Fort Louis in the direction of Roeschwoog, observe on both sides of the road fortification elements hidden under the vegetation. Arriving in Roeschwoog, you can visit the church built at the beginning of the 18th century in a baroque style, unique for the area. Layout of the circuit : www.openrunner.com/r/10084228 GPS track : goo.gl/maps/zve16p8jxqd2

This marked circuit, with an insignificant difference in altitude, can be followed indifferently in each direction, with a choice of departure in Fort-Louis, Place de la Mairie or Neuhaeusel, the festival hall, rue du Rhin. You will discover exceptional landscapes and an exceptional environment. The Moder, which has become a forest river with its many branches, is slowly rushing towards its confluence with the Rhine, through the Rhine forest, where reed beds and white willows compete with a large number of different plant species. On the water, the typical flat-bottomed boats, the caulkers, appear. It is also the kingdom of roe deer and wild boar, beaver and ragondin, a very numerous aquatic bird: grebes, fishing martins, dwarf blongios egrets... and the very rare starry bittern. You are in a protected biotope. On the left bank of the Moder River, you will see a typical agricultural landscape of the North Ried. Two Forts are on your way: the Fort Carré and the Fort d'Alsace, which, together with the Fort Marquisat, which has now almost disappeared, formed Fort Louis (in reference to Louis XIV, its authorizing officer). This fortification, built by Vauban from 1687, housed up to 2,000 soldiers in difficult conditions in the 18th century. It was bombed during the French Revolution, partially restored later, then razed again and finally bought by the town of Fort-Louis. Two villages dot the circuit: - to the south, on the site of a former Capuchin convent, Fort-Louis appeared with the construction of the fortification and developed into a garrison town with 34 innkeepers a century later! Its streets are rectilinear and at right angles to avoid obstructing the movement of troops of the time, - to the north, Neuhaeusel, founded on the same occasion and whose inhabitants made the bricks and tiles for the fortification. Fishing and inland navigation later took over until the middle of the 20th century. Finally, a detour to Roeschwoog is necessary to discover this commune, which testifies to an occupation dating back to 800/400 B.C. and then to the Merovingians. Its inhabitants also made bricks and tiles for Fort Louis in the past. Another circuit, "Weckmann and the Moder", starting from this commune, allows you to get to know it better. Route description: ignrando.fr/fr/parcours/67431-pr5-les-forts-au-fil-de-l-eau

This is a circuit full of art. Two departures are available to choose from: - In Auenheim, at Henri Loux's birthplace, rue de l'Église near the town hall. - In Sessenheim, at the Goethe Memorial, rue Albert Fuchs on the D 737 towards Soufflenheim. Henri Loux, do you know him? His work is widely known through the "Obernai tableware sets" in which he immortalized the daily life of the Alsatian countryside of his time. He was born in Auenheim in 1873 but grew up in Sessenheim. The young Loux then studied decorative arts in Strasbourg and Germany. His style of painting quickly became very well known. He lived everywhere and died in 1907 in Strasbourg. He has produced 56 tableware designs, illustrated almanacs, brochures and packaging. In Rountzenheim, the neighbouring village, you discover another Alsatian artist: Alfred Marzolff, sculptor and medalist. He lived in Rountzenheim from 1914 to 1936, the date of his death, and is the author of some sixty works: statues, plaques and medallions, including, in Strasbourg, the Four Men of the Kennedy Bridge, in Sessenheim, the busts of Luther and Bucer, on the facade of the Protestant church, in Rountzenheim, the monument to the dead. In Sessenheim, your itinerary passes (round trip) to the Goethe Memorial, located in the former Napoleonic Guard Corps. Another start of the tour can be made here. The memory of Henri Loux remains vivid in the town but it is above all that of Goethe and his youthful idyll with Frédérique Brion that makes Sessenheim famous. The idyll was short-lived but it appears in many of the poet's compositions (Willkommen und Abschied, Heidenröslein...) From there you take the road to Stattmatten passing in front of the Protestant church where Frédérique's parents are buried, their steles are on the south outside wall. A little further on, a "Frederikensruhe" mound awaits you. He was frequented by the two lovers. Objects dated from 1000 to 400 BC have been found there. Stattmatten is a small village on the outskirts of town. According to a legend, it was founded by a Swiss family who, in awe, docked their boat near a bank overlooking a meadow (hence the name: Statt en den Matten). This small village, close to the Rhine, lived on fishing, boating and agriculture until the middle of the last century. There were even gold panners. On the way back to Auenheim, the path runs along a meander of the Moder. The river has become a forest course here. The surrounding fauna and flora are very rich: reed beds, willows... up to 20 different plant species at the are, an exceptional aquifauna: grebes, herons, egrets, star bittern. You have arrived in Auenheim. Route description: ignrando.fr/fr/parcours/68453-pr6-un-berceau-de-l-art-alsacien

The tumulus was used in Western Europe from the Neolithic period till the Iron Age. The average diameter of a burial mound is 20 metres. The kind of tomb could contain several bodies, funeral urns anddifferent objects from everyday life such as weapons and jewellery. The footpath explaining the tumuli is situated in the 'forêt du Hesselbusch' (the Hesselbusch Forest) in Seltz on the road leading towards Hatten just after the motorway exit. A former Roman road linking Seltz to Altenstadt passed beside these tumuli. Explanatory panels in French and German. Car park for cars and buses.

In Stattmatten, follow the direction of Fort-Louis. The trail starts after the bridge over the Moder River on the left. Dedicated mainly to the trees and shrubs of the Rhine forest, panels give you valuable information on the species typical of this environment. Note the presence of staphyliers - or false pistachio trees - of which this is the only known station in France. Along this path is the Auenheim Beech Grove, ravaged by the 1999 storm. Beyond that, a dry meadow begins, famous for its 3 varieties of orchids (flowering at the end of May/beginning of June). Note the spawning ground created by the re-watering of a dead arm of the Moder. Route of the circuit : www.openrunner.com/r/13199635

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!

Leave Frankfurt for the day to discover Rothenburg, the best preserved Medieval town in Germany! SET OFF FROM FRANKFURT TO SPEND A DAY EXPLORING THE MEDIEVAL TOWN OF ROTHENBURG! Set off from Frankfurt in the morning and head out on a long romantic German road towards Bavaria. Along the way, you’ll travel through the Neckar Valley, passing the many castles for which is ancient route is famous. When you arrive in Rothenburg, your guide will lead you on a guided walking tour of the town centre. During the tour, you’ll be able to admire: * The Medieval ramparts * Timber-framed houses * The town gates * The Renaissance-style town hall * The Church of St. James (or St. Jakob) * And much more! *   Your guide will also give you tickets to visit the Kriminalmuseum, the museum of Medieval crimes and punishments. You will then have some free time to enjoy your packed lunch and to explore the town further at your leisure. Take the opportunity to try a “Schneeball”, a local sweet pastry, or visit the Doll and Toy Museum or the Christmas Museum. At the end of this trip back into olden-day Bavaria, you’ll be taken back to Frankfurt by bus for the early evening.

Spend a day travelling down Germany’s Romantic Road to visit two quaint and picturesque towns: Heidelberg and Rothenburg SET OFF FROM FRANKFURT ON A BUS EXCURSION TO THE PICTURESQUE TOWNS OF HEIDELBERG AND ROTHENBURG. The first destination of the day is Heidelberg, one of the most romantic city’s in Germany. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll visit the Heidelberg Castle, which is the property of the heirs to Empress Sissi. Walk through the streets lined with pink ochre buildings and admire Germany’s oldest university. The excursion will then continue to Rothenburg, the best preserved Medieval town in Germany. Wander through the town to discover its 13th-century ramparts, timber-frame houses and quaint streets, which all feature architecture untouched since the Renaissance! You will have some free time in Rothenburg to visit its museums or sample a Schneeball (“snowball”), a local sweet pastry, before returning to Frankfurt at the end of the day.

Set off from Frankfurt on a bus excursion to the historic towns of Nuremberg and Rothenburg. SET OFF FROM FRANKFURT ON A BUS EXCURSION TO THE HISTORIC TOWNS OF NUREMBERG AND ROTHENBURG. The trip begins with a visit to the capital of Franconia: Nuremberg. Your guide will show you around the most beautiful sites and monuments of the city, including: * The Imperial Castle * The house of Albrecht Dürer * The town hall * Hauptmarkt, the square which hosts the annual Christmas Market * The Gothic St. Lawrence (St. Lorenz) Church * And much more! *   Listen to your guide’s commentary to learn about how Nuremberg evolved from an important trading town in the Middle Ages into a Nazi Germany enclave during the Third Reich, to become a lively and dynamic city. Make the most of some free time to stroll through the city, and maybe taste a famous Nuremberg sausage. Then get back on the road and head for Germany’s best-preserved Medieval town: Rothenburg. Located on Germany’s Romantic Route, Rothenburg has been immaculately conserved since the Renaissance. When you arrive, your guide will lead you on a guided walking tour of the town centre. You can admire the 13th-century ramparts, the Renaissance-style town hall, the timber-frame houses and even the medieval crime museum. After some more free time to explore the town, you’ll get back on the bus and make your way back to Frankfurt for the early evening.

Set off to spend half a day discovering the Rhine Valley. By bus and by boat, you’ll have the chance to admire the villages and picturesque landscapes of the Frankfurt region. SEASONAL ACTIVITY SET OFF FROM FRANKFURT AND HEAD TO THE RHINE VALLEY TO SPEND HALF A DAY EXPLORING THE LANDSCAPES AND TRADITIONAL GERMAN VILLAGES. The excursion starts as you travel through this region, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, by bus. You’ll then board a boat to admire the Valley from the water during a cruise on the river. From Kaub to Rüdesheim, you’ll follow the river to see the villages of Reichenstein and Bingen, as well as Staheck Castle and the Niederwalddenkmal monument. Your vantage point from the river will also give you great views of the grapevines that are used to produce the famous Riesling wine. When the boat moors up your guide will take you to a small tavern to taste some local wine and find out more about the production of German wines. You will then make your way to a riverside restaurant to enjoy a traditional dinner before heading back to Frankfurt later in the evening. ACTIVITY AVAILABLE APRIL TO OCTOBER ONLY Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Please drink responsibly

Set off from Frankfurt to spend a day discovering the Rhine Valley.  Admire the must-see monuments in the Frankfurt region by bus and boat! LEAVE FRANKFURT TO SPEND A DAY DISCOVERING THE RHINE VALLEY! Aboard a bus, you’ll travel along the river to admire the valley region, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take advantage of panoramic views across the valley from Niederwalddenkmal, a monument erected at the end of the 19th century to celebrate the unification of the Prussian Empire. In the summer, you can take the cable car over the hills to reach the monument and take in spectacular views from the sky. Stop for lunch in a riverside restaurant before boarding a boat to cruise down the river and through the heart of the valley. During the boat trip, which lasts around 1 hour 20 minutes, you’ll be able to see the Lorelei rock, Katz Castle and the village of Sankt Goarshausen while listening to the recorded commentary. After the cruise, you’ll head to a small tavern to taste some local wine. At the end of the tasting you’ll get back on the bus and head back to Frankfurt, stopping for a break in the picturesque village of Rüdesheim. Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Please drink responsibly

Take advantage of this city tour of Frankfurt by bus and a trip to the Rhine Valley to discover the best sites in the city and its surroundings! DISCOVER FRANKFURT AND THE SURROUNDING REGION IN JUST A DAY! Start the day with an hour-long bus tour of the best sites in the city. From the comfort of a double-decker bus, you’ll be able to look out over the sites of symbolic importance to the country, from the historic spot where the Prussian emperors were crowned to the modern headquarters of the European Central Bank. After your city tour, you’ll change bus and leave Frankfurt for the Rhine Valley. Follow the Rhine to reach the Niederwald landscape park and its impressive monument. The Niederwalddenkmal monument commemorates the unification of Germany and stands dominating the Rhine Valley, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the summer, you can take a ride in the cable car for some great views across the Rhine Valley. After stopping for lunch in a traditional waterside restaurant, you’ll board a boat for an 80-minute cruise on the Rhine, giving you the chance to admire the picturesque villages and castles that line the river. Before you head back to Frankfurt, you’ll stop off in a small tavern to taste some local wine. Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Please drink responsibly

The ruins of Grand Arnsbourg, a castle dating back to the middle of the 12th century, are between Philippsbourg and Niederbronn. The castle was built to survey the Zinsel valley leading to Bitche. Louis d'Arnsbourg was the first occupant in 1229; from 1332, it was in the hands of the Lords of Lichtenberg until the last descendant died in 1481. The Count of Deux-Pont-Bitche became proprietor until the castle was partially destroyed during the Peasant War. For security reason access is strictly forbidden. Access: Forestry car park on the D87. Follow the red rectangles up to the path which lead you to the ruin in approximately 30 minutes

The Falkenstein castle is the most important castle in Pays de Bitche. It was built in th 12th century under the Count of Lutzelbourg's orders to protect the Holy forest of Haguenau. In 1564, the last Lord of Falkenstein sold the castle to Philip IV of Hanau Lichtenberg. The structure was in flames for 5 days and nights. Several buildings were rebuilt rather hastily but were finally dismantled by the French in 1680. The ruins that remain today crown a large sandstone rock, 117m in length, 2 to 10m wide and 22m high. Once inside the arched entrance, the shape of a head of a falcon can be distinguished in the overhang of rock - Falken: falcon, Stein: rock. On the same ridge, to the side of the Falkenstein, is Helfenstein castle, "the rock that brings help". In 1410, this castle was built with the money from the villagers in Butten, Kirspach and Birsbach, the Duke of Lorraine's fieifs. It was destroyed in 1435. Several signs can still be seen: walls, a well, carved steps in the rock... Access: The access is indicated from Philippsbourg. Once at the forestry carpark, it takes 20 minutes to reach the ruin.

On the same ridge, to the side of the Falkenstein, is Helfenstein castle, "the rock that brings help". In 1410, this castle was built with the money from the villagers in Butten, Kirspach and Birsbach, the Duke of Lorraine's fieifs. It was destroyed in 1435. Several signs can still be seen: walls, a well, carved steps in the rock... Access: The access is indicated from Philippsbourg. Once at the forestry carpark, it takes 20 minutes to reach the ruin.

The Rothenburg Castle is several hundred metres from the Falkenstein but has only a few visual remains. Its origins are unknown. The castle is cited in 1353 as belonging to the Count of Bitche. several years later, it became a hideout for highwaymen and was eventually destroyed by the Strasbourg militia. In the 16th century, it is sited as a small old ruined castle. Access: By the forestry road, a small steep path will take you up to the ruins.

Lieschbach Lake at Philippsbourg is a small peaceful peat mire and lake. On the outskirts of the villages, the 2km walk around the lake offers an exceptional panoramic of the forest and the rock outcrops. Thanks to a small wooden jetty, you can have a close up view of the wide variety of dragonflies that nest here. This lake is a nature reserve and is thus protected. Swimming and canoeing is strictly forbidden. You can reach the lake via the Hanau Lake following the path with the blue cross leading to the Falkenstein castle (35min). By car: coming from Haguenau towards Bitche, turn right after Philippsbourg into the small hamlet called Lieschbach. After 200m, turn right onto a track, continue 100m and there is a small forest car park on your right. Continue on foot to the lake (10min) Coming from Bitche: follow Haguenau and before entering Philippsbourg turn left into the hamlet of Lieschbach.

A few kilometres from Bitche, the small village of Sturzelbronn is home to an old Cistercian abbey founded in the 12th century. Destroyed in the French Revolution, only a few vestiges remain: The statue of St Bernard de Clairvaux, founder of the abbey: erected in 1935 at the 800th anniversary of the commeration for the founding of the Cistercian abbey in 1135. The great gates put in place during the 18th century after the 30 year war, a symbol of the power that the abbey possessed. The lapidary calendar: one of the more rare and interesting remains of the abbey. Unique in France, this ingenious calendar with its double entry table allows you to calculate the time in weeks and in days that separate Christmas from the 1st Sunday of Lent. It is sealed in the inner entrance of the church. The tympanum from the old abbey church reflecting the sobriety of the Cistercian artistry. Other things to see: the pillory reflecting the right to justice served by the monks, a sandstone sarcophgi and the cellar cave.

Built at the end of the 13th century by the lords of Falkenstein under the bishop of Strasbourg's orders, the Ramstein castle was built to control he access through the Zinsel valley. But during the 14th century, the Lords of ramstein transformed the castle into a den of thieves, robbing and exorting the whole region. Faced with this delicate situation, troops from Strasbourg helped by their allies from Berne organised a punitive expedition against the fortress. With war machines and stone boulders, the Ramstein was entirely destroyed un 1335.

The Erbsenfels Rock is one of the most beautiful natural curiosities in Pays de Bitche. This magnificent red sandstone rock is also known as the Arch Rock because of its shape formed by the erosion. The rock has a gaping hole which filters the sun leaving exceptional lighte effects amidst the vegetation. Situated along the GR532 (long distance footpath), the Erbsenfels is admired by all. This site can be discovered on foot, by bike or on horseback. Access: From Hanau Lake: follow the 6km circular walk From Waldeck Lake: follow the GR532 Note: This natural site is fragile so is pprotected. climbing is forbidden a s well as walking on the top. The raven and the peregrine falcon nest on this site between March and th end of July. During this period, we ask you to respect their tranquility and not disturb them.

The little chapel of Notre Dame des Bois is one of the hidden treasures of Pays de Bitche. Next to the Erbsenweiher Lake, the altar of this sandstone chapel is lined with a stone tabernacle contained in an iron box. It has a crucifix and four candlesticks. During the last war, the roof of the chapel was damaged and the pews, chandeliers, objects of worship and the statue of the Virgin have since disappeared. The wall inside were covered with inscrptions: the soldiers on the Maginot line had engraved their names and the chapel had even been used as a stable for their horses. During th renovation in 1974, a new statue of the Virgin was blessed and the small bell that had been found was repaired.

Realising that the small catholic community no longer had a place of worship, his Grace himself, from Pont des Loges, Bishop of Metz and a great builder, financed a chapel dedicated to the Immaculate Conception. It shelters the statue of the Virgin Mary as a child. The front of the chapel shows the door and the window in Neo-gothic style. It was inaugurated in August 1886, the same day as the benfactor died. In March 1945, the chapel was badly damaged in the allied bombardments. After the war, the recostruction was slow until Etienne Olland arrived in 1958. the ltter had a serious illness. he had a statue of the Virgin sculptured and was looking for somewhere to place it and discovered Baerenthal. He accelerated the work on the chapel and installed the modern statue of the Virgin carved by the scupltor Keller from Molsheim and the chapel was named "Notre Dame de a Confiance". From the beginning of May, 1960 up to his death in 1971, etienne Olland organised numerous pilgrimages to Notre Dame de la Confiance. Thanks to him the pilgrimages sprung to life and continue to this day. Discover: The chapel is on the village heritage path "au grès du chemin...notre histoire", a 3,7km circular trail.

The restaurant Le Falkenstein in the village of Philippsbourg offers you authentic regional cuisine. Between tasty dishes and tarte flambée, you have no choice but to taste the local specialities of our region while enjoying the setting of the restaurant or the terrace.

There are some magical places! Here the contact with nature and man's talent are deeply intertwined with the human conscious and well-The exceptional has a name: Arnsbourg. Everything there is grandiose, from the site – the Untermuhlthal spruce clearing a bird's flight from Baerenthal in the Bitche region – to the restaurant with its bright, beautiful dining room opening out onto the lush surrounding nature adjacent to the chic oriental salon, the considerate, stylish welcome and matchless wine cellar.

On the border with three regions, Alsace, Lorraine and Pfalz, this restaurant has taken in the three cultures. You can find traditional Lorraine and Alsatian dishes on the menu. Martine and Emmanuel Lindauer invite you into their charming restaurant for a tasty snack. To find out more click here.

Nestled in the historical Cistercian valley of the Northern Vosges, the Relais des Bois will take you to the heart of the forest with its menu. You will discover the flavours of the forest, game, wild boar marinated in hippocras, venison. The Relais des Bois also have thematic evening: mussels/chips, büwespätzles…You can also order delicious meals for family parties (foie gras, smoked salmon…). A vending machine offers a variety of dishes prepared by the chef. It is located on the parking lot of the Bricomarché in Bitche.

Ramstein Plage Brasserie is situated on the Ramstein Plage leisure grounds in walking distance from the village. This restaurant has a variety of dishes from simple snacks to full menus. It has a magnificent view over the lake and surrounding forest.

This restaurant close to Hanau Lake proposes local dishes. A set buffet menu is served at lunchtime using seasonal produce. The buffet can also be a starter followed by a set meal usually a local speciality.

This restaurant close to Hanau Lake proposes local dishes. A set buffet menu is served at lunchtime using seasonal produce. The buffet can also be a starter followed by a set meal usually a local speciality.

Pub with a panoramic view over the terrace and lake.

Ideal for walkers, this restaurant set in the heart of this sandstone countryside, serves generous hearty meals. In a typical traditional family atmosphere, this family restaurant serves local specialities. On the menu: good humour and joy surrounded by the sound of the local dialect.

Pub with a panoramic view over the terrace and lake.

The hotel is at the centre of the village of philippsbourg, opposite the Falkenstein restaurant (same owner). Completly renovated in 2009, it has nine en-suite bedrooms. Half or full board are also possible. There is a breakfast buffet

On the edge of the forest, Hotel L'Arnsbourg as well as its exceptional restaurant Arnsbourg, is a key figure in french luxury and gastronomy. This distinguished hotel in Pays de Bitche offers a real pleasure for the senses. Sleek and modern, combining nature and exceptional human talent, the guests are assured of an unforgettable stay.

The Bremendell campsite is a bit like farm camping. It is on the edge of the forest in a natural, quiet ans isolated area, just a few hundred metres from Germany. The Bremendell site is the starting point for many hiking paths and cycling trails. The campsite has a service bay for motorhomes.

The Bremendell campsite is a bit like farm camping. It is on the edge of the forest in a natural, quiet ans isolated area, just a few hundred metres from Germany. The Bremendell site is the starting point for many hiking paths and cycling trails. The campsite has a service bay for motorhomes.

This service bay at Bremendell has a disposal unit for waste water and a water and electric unit.

Vincent and Olympe are two passionate dog lovers and welcome you to their charming holiday home on the edge of the forest and near a small river. It is located in Baerenthal (border Alsace / Lorraine), a green holiday resort in the regional nature park of the Northern Vosges. The 60 m² holiday home is equipped with all the facilities you need for a pleasant stay. It has a comfortable bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen and a newly renovated bathroom. Would you like to share playful moments with your dog? Your four-legged friend is welcomed during your stay! Breakfast is available at an added cost.

In the heart of the Vosges du Nord Regional Nature Park, discover a cosy wooden chalet for up to 6 people. This cosy little nest is equipped with every comfort and is located right next to your hosts. Here, you can enjoy the peace and fresh air in a valley surrounded by nature, just a few steps from the forest. The little extra? In autumn, if you listen carefully, you may be able to hear the famous bellowing of the deer. Riders and their horses are welcome, the property offers a large enclosed area for them to use.

The Youth Centre at Baerenthal welcomes groups into a unique natural setting. This centre has 10 bungalows each with 8 beds, 2 chalets with 4 beds, 2 chalets with 2 beds, 7 chalets with 12 beds and a pavilion (13 double rooms + 2 single rooms - each with a bathroom and toilet). Perfect for training and professional courses. Gym and adventure park on site.

Chalet for rent in a green setting, 8 km from Bitche and 8 km from Niederbronn-lès-Bains, 40 km from Haguenau and 70 km from Strasbourg. The village of Baerenthal has all facilities: Butcher, baker, hairdresser, doctor, nurses. It consists of 2 bedrooms: one with a double bed and the other with 3 bunk beds (with sheets, pillows and duvets). The living room is equipped with a sofa bed, TV, Wi-Fi, furniture with dishes, a large table with 6 chairs and a cooker. The small kitchen has a fridge, microwave, coffee maker, toaster and pots. Bathroom with shower, toilet, towels and bed linen are provided. Washing machine and dryer. To enjoy the beautiful season, there is an outdoor kitchen with a large fireplace, fridge, camping table, chairs, etc. From a minimum of two nights in low season and weekly rentals in summer. Heating with wood stove or electric radiators. Great walks and many places of interest!

This charming gypsy caravan is nestled in a green valley and can accommodate up to 3 people. At BaerBnb, you are self-sufficient in your fully-equipped wooded gypsy caravan set in lush green grounds, close to nature and your hosts. This is an ideal place to stay for horse riders and their mounts (space for 3 to 4 horses), hikers and mountain bikers, allowing you to discover the trails of the Northern Vosges in complete peace and quiet. Located close to the GR53, your hosts offer a shuttle service from the GR53 to your accommodation. Breakfast and picnic baskets are available on request.