Neuried walks

Near the Pierre-Pflimlin Bridge, between Strasbourg (France) and Altenheim (Germany), the first part of the walk is a nature trail through the heart of the Rhine floodplain forest – the Auenwildnispfad – which allows you to explore one of the last remaining wild landscapes along the banks of the Rhine, where the river still shapes an environment rich in biodiversity. You’ll cross wooden footbridges, traverse small branches of the Rhine, walk over rustic bridges and discover viewing platforms offering beautiful views of the floodplain forest. Information boards explain how this unique ecosystem works and introduce the local wildlife: birds, amphibians, insects and beavers all find refuge here. The second part of the walk then alternates between forest paths, trails along the banks of the Rhine and the ‘Goldscheurer Baggersee’ gravel pit, all in a peaceful, shaded setting.

A circular route with virtually no elevation gain, through the shaded forest on the German side of the Rhine. Part of the route follows a signposted path known as the “Schnakenpfad” (the snail trail), which is approximately 7.5 km long. It is located near Lac de Gravier to the west, between the villages of Ottenheim-Schwanau and Meißenheim. This path is aptly named, as the locals also call it “Schnoogepfad” (the Mosquito Trail), because in summer it is teeming with them. The route alternates between small lakes, streams, charming little wooden bridges, footpaths, tracks of varying widths, tarmac roads and a few pavements at the start and finish in the streets of the village of Ottenheim-Schwanau. The whole route is easily accessible. There are several shelters with tables and benches along the way. Suitable walking shoes are nevertheless recommended. Dogs must be kept on a lead! The area is rich in wildlife and you’ll also come across beautiful wild geese.

An 8 km hike on flat terrain. The route passes through parts of villages (Eschau, Ohnheim, Fegersheim), follows streams through fields, crosses a grove and runs alongside a pond.

A bucolic walk in the cool shade of the forest, along the water; ideal in hot weather.

A country circuit through forests, villages, fields and rivers.

This is a variation on route -1-, slightly longer and slightly less shaded.

A short trip to the Nature Reserve on Rohrschollen Island at the gates of Strasbourg. A little-known getaway full of discoveries. Please note that dogs are strictly prohibited in the reserve, even on a leash. (5) June 2021: the city of Strasbourg has installed five rustic Highland Cattle cows on the island to clear the undergrowth beneath the power lines.

A 5km circular through the Illkirch forest, ideal for Nordic walking as it only takes a few metres of tarmac road.

A short walk along the water's edge, pleasant in all seasons and appealing to adults, children and pets (on a lead) alike. With a bit of luck, you may see many animals, including kingfishers, as well as traces of beavers. In fine weather, this route is ideal for a picnic by the water's edge.

Hike between fields and forest near Nordhouse. Pass through the village of Hipsheim and return via the Rhône-Rhine canal. Pass by the Borne 2000 monument in Nordhouse.

A beautiful bike ride of nearly 30 km starting from the Stade de la Meinau in Strasbourg. It will take you through the Neuhof forest, up along the Canal d'Alsace on the French side, then back along the German bank, following the Old Rhine to the Jardin des Deux Rives, which straddles the Rhine and the border between Strasbourg and Kehl. The route favours cycle paths and trails that are closed to vehicles.

A short tour of the village of Osthouse and its surroundings. Numerous waterways, meadows and shady forests will enhance your journey. The castle and church are also worth a visit.

A lovely ride through the beautiful villages along the Rhine between Kehl and Offenburg. The route follows cycle paths separated from traffic for almost the entire journey and is very well signposted throughout.

Starting from Strasbourg, explore the peaceful banks of the Ill and observe its wildlife. Follow the dark waters of the mysterious Schwarzwasser as it winds its way through the heart of the Neuhof Forest. Finally, criss-cross the paths of the Rhine Tortu, which undulate to the gates of the city. Between water and forest, set your sights on unspoilt, peaceful nature, yet so close to the hustle and bustle of the city.

In the historic heart of Strasbourg, take a stroll along the Ill and its many branches to discover a unique heritage!

With over 200,000 inhabitants, Strasbourg is a major city on a national scale, but also a European capital. With a rich historical heritage, this route allows you to discover its most famous monuments, such as the cathedral, the Vauban Dam, the Rohan Palace, the University Palace and the Palais du Rhin. This walk also takes you through the magnificent Petite France district, with its picturesque houses and narrow streets. The route also passes close to numerous places of worship, such as the Church of Saint-Pierre-le-Jeune, the Reformed Church of Saint-Paul and the Church of Sainte-Madeleine. Of course, you can mix things up by combining this walk with a visit to one or more museums.

Stroll through the historic centre of Strasbourg and discover twelve cul-de-sacs, which are unusual and little-known corners of the Alsatian capital. The route takes you through the alleys and streets of the Grande Île, from Rue de la Nuée-Bleue to Ponts-Couverts, via Place Broglie, the cathedral, the banks of the Ill and La Petite France. An original way to see the city from a different perspective. As for the cul-de-sacs, they "at least lead you to turn around", according to writer Sylvain Tesson...

This walk takes place in Koenigshoffen and Montagne-Verte, districts of Strasbourg, not far from the city centre. You can enjoy the countryside, alongside the waterways, whilst the city is still within easy reach.

A beautiful, easy walk in the Grand Ried in Rhinau, between fields and forest near the Rhine, surrounded by springs and streams with exceptionally clear water and blockhouses. Suitable for children.

A route through the Taubergiessen National Nature Reserve, in the German part of Rhinau, along the Old Rhine with views of Rhinau Island and a short detour to Europa-Park (Rust). This is a thousand-hectare nature reserve owned by the French commune of Rhinau on German territory (650 ha of forest and 350 ha of meadows or fields). I was lucky enough to spot roe deer, swans and herons.

A cycle ride around Strasbourg on flat paths, starting from Place d'Haguenau, which will take you along the Rhône-Rhine Canal, through the Neuhof Forest, up along the Alsace Canal on the French side, then return via the German bank, following the Old Rhine to the Jardin des Deux Rives, straddling the Rhine and the border between Strasbourg and Kehl.

A delightful walk on the outskirts of the city, allowing you to explore the banks of the Ill and the ponds that lend a wild, natural feel to this urban area. You’ll spot plenty of birds (small passerines, geese and seagulls) as well as signs of beavers. An easy walk to enjoy in any season, though undoubtedly more pleasant in summer and in dry weather (paths can get muddy in places). You can get there and back on the E tram from the city centre.

A visit to my maternal grandparents’ village will take you deep into the Black Forest; as you climb a little higher, you’ll discover the village of Seelbach in the Schutter Valley.

An hour from Strasbourg, in the heart of the Black Forest (Germany), discover the ruins of Géroldseck Castle. A route along small country lanes, which can be completed on foot or by bike (between 4 and 5 hours on foot). After an initial uphill section, you’ll discover a superb 360-degree panoramic view of the Black Forest at the top of the ruins.

A lovely walk above Seelbach, alternating between woodland and meadows with beautiful scenery and the chance to discover lovely wooden sculptures. Please note that the start of the descent is sometimes quite steep.