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Wattwiller walks
Hartmannswillerkopf - Molkenrain - Freundstein circular from Wattwiller
Visorando Member
11.92 mi
+4,180 ft
-4,173 ft
9h 05
Difficult
Departure from Wattwiller (Haut-Rhin)
A beautiful hike from Wattwiller to Hartmannswillerkopf, then Molkenrain, Freundstein with the remains of the castle, and back through the bunkers and trenches of the First World War.
There are many places to eat along the hike.
Just under 7 hours of walking, not counting long breaks.
Route de découverte de Wattwiller
2.24 mi
+135 ft
-121 ft
1h 10
Easy
Departure from Wattwiller (Haut-Rhin)
Located in the south of the Haut-Rhin, Wattwiller has long been known for its thermal springs. Today, its water is still used in our bottles. This route allows you to discover much of its heritage, notably its four fountains, the Church of Saint John the Baptist and the François Schneider Foundation museum. This route includes a short detour that gives you an overview of the village. To round off the route, we recommend combining it with a visit to neighbouring villages such as Uffolthz or Berrwiller.
The heights of Wattwiller
2.92 mi
+522 ft
-495 ft
1h 50
Easy
Departure from Wattwiller (Haut-Rhin)
Located above the village of Wattwiller, nestled against the slopes of the southern Vosges, this hike is ideal if you want to enjoy views overlooking the village, walk through vineyards or enjoy the coolness of the forest. The start and end points are at the car park in front of the François Schneider Foundation. The route is not difficult and the paths are very well marked.
The Zeller canteen at the start of the Wattwiller trail
4.05 mi
+1,010 ft
-1,004 ft
2h 45
Moderate
Departure from Wattwiller (Haut-Rhin)
The existence of the Cantine is directly linked to the Great War of 1914–18. German and French troops fought for control of the summit of the Hartmannswillerkopf, known locally by the abbreviation HWK, which offered a breathtaking view of the Rhine plain. The German sector 2 headquarters was established in casemates.
Exploring the Woods of Wattwiller
4.81 mi
+1,768 ft
-1,755 ft
3h 45
Moderate
Departure from Wattwiller (Haut-Rhin)
A magnificent walk through the forest on the hills above Wattwiller. The route starts along the Siehlbaechle stream, leading to the waterfall of the same name. A climb up to the Pointe Superbe offers a breathtaking view of the plain before you begin the descent down the trench known as the ‘Suisse Lippique’, where you’ll discover numerous First World War bunkers – a real treat for young adventurers with all the exploring it offers.
The route ends with a botanical trail where you can discover the region’s flora.
On the southern slopes of Hartmannswillerkopf
3.29 mi
+961 ft
-951 ft
2h 20
Moderate
Departure from Wattwiller (Haut-Rhin)
A cool forest walk on the southern slopes of the Hartmannswillerkopf massif, a major site of remembrance of the Great War. Forest trail along a steep ravine, waterfall, drier conditions at higher altitudes, passage at the Hirtzenstein rock and return to the starting point. The route is punctuated with remnants of the fighting that raged in 1915.
The Sielbaechlé Waterfall and the Hartmannswillerkopf (Vieil-Armand)
7.14 mi
+2,103 ft
-2,119 ft
5h 05
Moderate
Departure from Wattwiller (Haut-Rhin)
A hike in the heart of the Alsatian Vosges, combining nature and history. The trail leads to the Sielbaechlé Waterfall, nestled in the forest, then on to the Hartmannswillerkopf (Vieil-Armand), a key site of the First World War. With its waterfalls, historical remains and panoramic views over the Alsace plain, this circular route offers a complete immersion in a wild and history-steeped environment.
The southern trenches of Hartmannswillerkopf
4.28 mi
+1,532 ft
-1,529 ft
3h 20
Moderate
Departure from Wattwiller (Haut-Rhin)
The Hartmannswillerkopf (Viel Armand in French) was the scene of fierce fighting throughout 1915. Losses amounted to 50,000 dead, evenly divided between the two sides. This hike pays tribute to these soldiers by following part of their trenches. It begins with the ascent of the massif, following the German fortified trenches to the summit where the necropolis is located. The return route descends via the French side, the "Chemin des Dames".
Route de découverte d'Uffholtz
1.89 mi
+52 ft
-49 ft
0h 55
Easy
Departure from Uffholtz (Haut-Rhin)
Uffholtz is a small village with 1,700 inhabitants. Located near Cernay, it is known to cyclists as the starting point for the ascent of the Hartmannswillerkopf and the Grand Ballon. This short route, which can be extended to include a visit to the neighbouring village of Wattwiller, allows you to discover all its heritage: Saint Erasmus Church, the 1914–1918 Shelter and its park, Schaecher Chapel and the Plague Cross, dating from 1565.
The Cernay Stork Park from Uffholtz
3.45 mi
+69 ft
-66 ft
1h 40
Easy
Departure from Uffholtz (Haut-Rhin)
Set off to meet the storks of Cernay from the charming little village of Uffholtz, passing by numerous points of interest and beautiful views of the region. In good weather, you will also be able to see the Alps!
From the Lohe plateau to Schletzenburg
4.18 mi
+666 ft
-666 ft
2h 30
Easy
Departure from Uffholtz (Haut-Rhin)
A lovely walk starting from the centre of the charming village of Uffholtz.
It circles the bucolic Loh plateau, where orchards, vineyards, meadows and farmland alternate.
It ventures into the Uffholtz communal forest to climb up to the Schletzenburg promontory with its magnificent old oak tree.
On the way back, the walk follows the Egelbach stream.
From the Lohe plateau to the Vosges foothills
2.86 mi
+344 ft
-344 ft
1h 35
Easy
Departure from Uffholtz (Haut-Rhin)
A lovely walk starting from the centre of the charming village of Uffholtz.
It circles the bucolic Loh plateau, where orchards, vineyards, meadows and crops alternate.
It ventures into the Uffholtz communal forest to enjoy a refreshing shaded passage halfway along a very open route where the sun can be intense.
On the way back, the walk follows the Egelbach stream.
From Uffholtz to Wattwiller via the Coteaux du Vieil-Armand
3.75 mi
+390 ft
-381 ft
2h 05
Easy
Departure from Uffholtz (Haut-Rhin)
Starting from the village of Uffholtz, you will walk to Wattwiller, passing through the vineyards on the hill overlooking the two villages.
Ascent to Molkenrain
8.76 mi
+2,448 ft
-2,448 ft
6h 10
Moderate
Departure from Haut-Rhin
We did this hike in winter. There are a few difficulties, but overall it's a pleasant hike.
Exploring the Steinbach valley
3.77 mi
+764 ft
-761 ft
2h 25
Easy
Departure from Haut-Rhin
This beautiful, short hike is based directly on the guide of the same name published by the Cernay Tourist Office.
Herrenfluh Pass in Cernay
8.56 mi
+1,900 ft
-1,873 ft
5h 35
Moderate
Departure from Cernay (Haut-Rhin) (Haut-Rhin)
This hike, which presents no major difficulties, allows you to explore the immediate surroundings of Cernay and then, after crossing the vineyards and the Loh plateau, to enter the oak forest above Steinbach. A number of vantage points offer sweeping views across much of the Alsace plain as far as the Black Forest. On a clear day, certain spots also provide breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.
Route de découverte de Cernay
6.71 mi
+36 ft
-36 ft
3h 05
Moderate
Departure from Cernay (Haut-Rhin) (Haut-Rhin)
Cernay is a small town with a population of 11,000. It is situated at the entrance to the Thur Valley. This route allows you to discover much of Cernay’s heritage, starting from the town’s historic centre. The walk begins near Saint-Étienne Church and then heads towards the suburbs, which bear witness to the town’s industrial past. The route then winds back and forth between the suburbs and the town centre, allowing you to discover as many historical and cultural sites as possible.
Wotan Oak from the old Steinbach quarry
6.62 mi
+1,263 ft
-1,283 ft
4h 10
Moderate
Departure from Haut-Rhin
Accessible walk with two magnificent viewpoints from the Rehbrunnel rock (Wotan Oak shelter) and the Hirlenstein rock.
Ostein farmhouse inn from Steinbach
9.16 mi
+3,058 ft
-3,058 ft
6h 55
Difficult
Departure from Haut-Rhin
The Ostein farmhouse inn, located along this hike, is a great place to quench your thirst before continuing on to Steimbach. A stop at the Ostein rock offers breathtaking views of the entire valley and the Grand Ballon.
The Molkenrain via Rehbrunnel and the Ostein rock
9.41 mi
+2,510 ft
-2,523 ft
6h 30
Difficult
Departure from Haut-Rhin
Ascent to the summit of Molkenrain, situated opposite the Grand Ballon and next to the Hartmannswillerkopf, starting from Steinbach and passing through the viewpoints at Rehbrunnel and Rocher d’Ostein, as well as the Pyramides and Turenne camps, then returning via the Molkenrain ridge and the Col d’Herrenfluh,
An accessible hike enjoying pleasant forest paths and high-altitude stubble fields that offer remarkable views and panoramas whilst passing through historic sites.
The Zeller Canteen
7.79 mi
+1,594 ft
-1,588 ft
5h 00
Easy
Departure from Hartmannswiller (Haut-Rhin)
Like the "South and North Trenches of Hartmannswillerkopf" hikes, this hike pays tribute to the soldiers of theFirst World War.
This hike follows the German supply routes that fed the front.
The Zeller canteen was the location of the German army's Sector II headquarters in 1914. Around this canteen, the pioneer village included a bookshop, dentist, hairdresser, kitchen, photographer and a chapel.
Warning. Friday 12 May 2023. From (9) to (10), dangerous to approach, the owners of the Ollwiller estate almost let the dogs loose. Be very careful, do not approach the estate.
Awaiting modification...
Route de découverte de Berrwiller
2.98 mi
+89 ft
-89 ft
1h 25
Easy
Departure from Berrwiller (Haut-Rhin)
A small village with just over 1,000 inhabitants, Berrwiller is situated near the Wine Route. It is a village in the countryside. This route takes you on a tour of the entire village, exploring its pleasant streets close to the farming community. The highlight of the route is undoubtedly Berrwiller Church.
Route de découverte de Hartmannswiller
1.30 mi
+39 ft
-39 ft
0h 40
Easy
Departure from Hartmannswiller (Haut-Rhin)
Hartmannswiller is a small village situated at the foot of the Vieil Armand. It is best known for its church and its fortified cemetery. This walk allows you to discover other sites, marked by cultural information boards, such as the town hall, the well on Grand'Rue and the crosses. To round off your exploration of the area, you can combine this walk with a visit to the neighbouring village of Wuenheim.
The northern trenches of Hartmannswillerkopf
5.74 mi
+1,959 ft
-1,952 ft
4h 20
Moderate
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
The Hartmannswillerkopf (HWK, Viel Armand in French) was the scene of fierce fighting throughout 1915. Like the "South Trenches of the HWK" hike, this hike pays tribute to the combatants by following part of their trenches and shelters. It begins with an ascent of the northern slope of the massif and the German side to the summit, followed by a descent via the French side before passing by the Sicurani Chapel.
The Col Amic valley
Tourist office5.25 mi
+1,499 ft
-1,483 ft
3h 45
Moderate
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
This moderately difficult walk is relatively short. It is suitable for most walkers who, provided they have a minimum level of fitness, should find this route a pleasant half-day walk. Several heritage sites (crosses, a chapel, castle ruins, etc.) can be explored along the way.
The remains of Vieil Armand as seen from the Gros Chêne
10.13 mi
+2,310 ft
-2,333 ft
6h 40
Moderate
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
A long walk with a relatively gentle gradient, but one that is nevertheless recommended for
hikers who are reasonably experienced walkers. History enthusiasts will be delighted by the walk across the Vieil Armand or Hartmannswillerkopf battlefield and by discovering the many monuments linked to the history of the First World War.
Col Amic - Thierenbach and its basilica from Wuenheim
9.40 mi
+2,175 ft
-2,182 ft
6h 15
Moderate
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
Starting from Wuenheim near Soultz, this hike offers a wealth of historical and cultural heritage discoveries, taking you through beautiful forests in the foothills of the Vosges mountains to Col Amic on the Route des Crêtes, passing historic sites from the 1914-1918 war near Hartmannswillerkopf: Zimmermann Cross, Baratin Shelter and Sicurani Chapel, then return via the Kohlschlag farm inn, Holzwasen, St Anne's Chapel, Notre-Dame de Thierenbach Basilica and the Jewish cemetery in Jungholtz.
Thierenbach from the Gros Chêne
2.75 mi
+554 ft
-551 ft
1h 45
Easy
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
A short walk through the forest before setting off to explore the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Thierenbach.
Wuenheim and the vineyards of Ollwiller
3.69 mi
+344 ft
-348 ft
2h 00
Easy
Departure from Wuenheim (Haut-Rhin)
Starting from Wuenheim, this circular route will take you through the vineyards of Ollwiller after a short stretch through the forest.
Route de découverte de Wuenheim
1.71 mi
+66 ft
-43 ft
0h 50
Easy
Departure from Wuenheim (Haut-Rhin)
Wuenheim is a small village of 800 inhabitants, situated between Soultz and Cernay. With a history deeply rooted in winegrowing, this route takes you past various winegrowers’ houses that withstood both world wars. Indeed, the village of Wuenheim was severely affected by the First World War. This route allows you to discover Wuenheim’s wine-growing heritage, whilst exploring the theme of the village’s reconstruction following the First World War and learning about the impact that conflict had on the village.
Ascent of Hartmannswillerkopf
6.81 mi
+2,169 ft
-2,172 ft
5h 00
Moderate
Departure from Jungholtz (Haut-Rhin)
A beautiful hike on Hartmannswillerkopf mountain, also known as "The Man-Eater", where a battle took place during the First World War.
You can discover various historical remains (old cemeteries, old shelters, ruins, trenches) and a magnificent view of the Alsace Plain.
Ascent to Grand Ballon from Jungholtz
14.56 mi
+4,098 ft
-4,081 ft
8 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Jungholtz (Haut-Rhin)
This long hike will allow you to enjoy the many views offered by the Col Amic and the climb to the Grand Ballon. You can also stop for refreshments at the various farm inns located along the route. It's the ideal way to spend a sporty day in the open air on the highest peak in the Vosges.
Freundstein and Molkenrain
3.86 mi
+866 ft
-850 ft
2h 30
Easy
Departure from Willer-sur-Thur (Haut-Rhin)
Starting from the Route des Crêtes, near the Freundstein farmhouse inn, a magnificent, fairly easy and varied route with numerous viewpoints.
Short walk south of Jungholtz
3.06 mi
+295 ft
-315 ft
1h 40
Easy
Departure from Jungholtz (Haut-Rhin)
This walk between Soultz-Haut-Rhin and Jungholtz takes you along the Way of the Cross from the Rote Rain Memorial to the famous Thierenbach Basilica, before crossing the village of Jungholtz to reach Mittelbourg and its vineyards, and finally returning to the starting point near the stork park in Soultz/Wuenheim.
Route de découverte de Vieux-Thann
2.52 mi
+13 ft
-13 ft
1h 10
Easy
Departure from Vieux-Thann (Haut-Rhin)
Vieux-Thann is best known for its industrial heritage. However, there are green spaces that allow you to escape this atmosphere entirely. This route takes you to discover them all. The walk passes by Saint-Dominique Church and Place Bernard Thierry-Mieg, as well as the Espace Rammersweier. Other points of interest along the route include the town hall and Place Scherrer.
The Thann hills, via the Croix du Rangen and the vineyard
5.61 mi
+1,437 ft
-1,424 ft
3h 50
Moderate
Departure from Vieux-Thann (Haut-Rhin)
This walk takes you through deciduous forests and a rocky landscape, which is unusual in the Vosges mountains, where one is more accustomed to fir and spruce trees. The variety of landscapes is another highlight: forest, meadows, orchards and vineyards.
From Sainte-Anne to the Kohlschlag Farm Inn via Holzwasen
7.18 mi
+1,785 ft
-1,775 ft
4h 50
Moderate
Departure from Jungholtz (Haut-Rhin)
A hike mostly through woodland on the lower slopes of the Grand Ballon, passing the charming Kohlschlag Farm Inn at the foot of the Col Amic. The return route to Sainte-Anne goes via the
Holzwasen shelter.
On the slopes of the Grand Ballon from Jungholtz
12.47 mi
+2,762 ft
-2,766 ft
8h 10
Difficult
Departure from Jungholtz (Haut-Rhin)
A moderately challenging hike which, as the paths wind their way, offers beautiful views of the Rimbach Valley, the Alsace plain and, of course, the summit of the Grand Ballon. Crossing the little Kaltenbach valley with its trees and moss-covered rocks, its small waterfall and the remarkable 1914–1918 baths is a real treat.
The heights of Jungholtz
6.49 mi
+1,417 ft
-1,411 ft
4h 15
Moderate
Departure from Jungholtz (Haut-Rhin)
The hike starts in Jungholtz and crosses the communal forest of Guebwiller to take you to the Col de Peternit. Hike between the Guebwiller and Rimbach valleys, among conifers and deciduous trees.
The hike can also be done by mountain bike.
The Sicurani Chapel from the Kohlschlag farmhouse inn
Tourism professional
2.48 mi
+486 ft
-502 ft
1h 35
Easy
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
This 90-minute circular route takes you to places of remembrance from the First World War near Hartmannswillerkopf. Starting with the Sicurani Chapel, built in honour of a Corsican officer killed on the Vosges front. Pascal Sicurani, captain of the68th Alpine Chasseurs Battalion, died a few days before Christmas, on 22 December 1915. His remains were transferred to his native village in 1923. The circular route then passes by the Abri Baratin.
The Hartmannswillerkopf from the Col Amic
8.74 mi
+1,844 ft
-1,867 ft
5h 40
Moderate
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
During this hike, we will follow in the footsteps of the poilus who fought at Hartmannswillerkopf during the First World War, and we will cross the Route des Crêtes several times.
The Grand Ballon from Soultz loop
17.91 mi
+4,206 ft
-4,203 ft
2 days
Difficult
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
The Grand Ballon is a legendary peak in the Vosges. It is easily accessible by car. More experienced hikers can reach it on foot via various hiking trails. One of the longest routes starts from Soultz. The climb is steady on the first day and the descent is steady on the second. The more athletic can complete this hike in a single day, but to fully enjoy the scenery, it is better to do it over two days. This hike will leave you with lasting memories of the view from the summit at over 1,400 metres above sea level.
Le Col du Grand Ballon depuis Soultz
8.15 mi
+3,596 ft
-89 ft
6h 55
Difficult
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
Randonnée presque quasiment en montée qui permet de relier Soultz, sympathique village culturel, au Col du Grand Ballon où vous pourrez passer la nuit avant d'aller le lendemain matin au sommet. Bien que cette étape soit courte en kilomètres, elle comporte un important dénivelé à ne pas négliger. Mais que de beautés en revanche entre les forêts et points de vues remarquables dans la dernière partie du parcours.
From Soultz-Haut-Rhin to Cernay
17.04 mi
+643 ft
-633 ft
8h 25
Very difficult
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
A long hike, almost flat, but covering a significant number of kilometres. This route will take you through villages and towns such as Hartmannswiller and Cernay. When conditions allow, the view stretches as far as the Alps. Apart from the theme of religion, which is very prominent with the various small churches and the Thierenbach Basilica, the theme of the First World War is also present on the way back. Most of the hike is in open country. Only a quarter of the hike is covered between Wattwiller and the basilica of Thierenbach.
Route de découverte de Soultz-Haut-Rhin
4.60 mi
+43 ft
-43 ft
2h 10
Easy
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
Soultz-Haut-Rhin is a small town with a population of 7,000 located at the gateway to the Florival Valley. It is home to two museums: the Nef des Jouets (Toy Museum) and the Bucheneck Museum. This walk takes you on a tour of the town and other historical sites such as the old railway line, the Capuchin monastery of Saint-Maurice, the old synagogue, memorials and various green spaces.
The Grand-Ballon circuit via Le Haag and Le Firstacker
6.59 mi
+1,585 ft
-1,585 ft
4h 25
Moderate
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
Passion Vosges magazine 2026, dedicated to gourmet hikes, offers a superb circular route around the highest peak in the Vosges. This route passes by the Ferme-auberge du Grand-Ballon and offers magnificent panoramic views.
Gustiberg - Lac du Ballon - Grand Ballon circular route, starting from Firstacker
9.20 mi
+2,461 ft
-2,438 ft
6h 20
Moderate
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
This hike connects Gustiberg, Lac du Ballon, Col du Haag and Grand Ballon, starting from Firstacker and alternating between typical mountain landscapes: forests, stubble fields, pastures, scree, etc.
Circular between Col du Haag, Storkenkopf and Grand Ballon from Firstacker
10.10 mi
+2,228 ft
-2,228 ft
6h 35
Moderate
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
A beautiful hike, wild in all seasons, through stubble fields and beautiful forests, passing the summit of the Grand Ballon (360° view) from the Firstacker car park, via the stubble fields of Gerstacker, the Haag Pass, around the Storkenkopf in the forest, then up to the summit of the Grand Ballon (Diables Bleus monument and radar dome) before descending via the modified GR®5 route between the Col du Grand Ballon (La Vue des Alpes restaurant) and the Ferme-auberge du Grand Ballon.
The Kohlschlag farmhouse inn and Molkenrain as seen from the Firstacker Pass
8.69 mi
+1,847 ft
-1,850 ft
5h 35
Moderate
Departure from Soultz-Haut-Rhin (Haut-Rhin)
This circular mountain route starting from the Col du Firstacker links three farm-inns (the Kohlschlag, the Freundstein and the Molkenrain) whilst offering you the chance to discover the Hartmannswillerkopf Memorial, the famous and deadly Franco-German mountain battlefield of the First World War. Alternating between forests, pastures and ruins, the route subtly blends heritage with farm life and the atmosphere of the forest, all enhanced by magnificent views.
More walks in Wattwiller
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