4.5
(1650)
7,646
hikers
455
hikes
Hiking around Ottersthal offers varied terrain at the edge of the Vosges mountains, within France's Grand Est region. The area is characterized by dense forests and natural landscapes, providing diverse paths for outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers can explore trails ranging from gentle walks to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes, often within the cross-border biosphere reserve of the Northern Vosges.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
4.6
(75)
337
hikers
12.2km
03:34
330m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(48)
236
hikers
10.0km
02:56
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.4
(15)
105
hikers
7.73km
02:18
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
22
hikers
6.19km
01:51
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
28
hikers
3.85km
01:02
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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On the occasion of the patronage found here – the house of God is dedicated to 'Nativity of Mary' – I would like to offer the lingerer a short impulse from Saint John of Damascus (born 675/676, died before 754) for spiritual contemplation: 'The day of the birth of the Mother of God is a day of universal joy, for through the Mother of God the entire human race was renewed and the suffering of the first mother, Eve, was transformed into joy.'
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The 7-meter-high monumental wooden sculpture depicts an alpaca.
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Old Telegraph, a visit is possible during the summer months
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The Château des Rohan, formerly called "The Little Alsatian Versailles," is located in the city center of Saverne on the Rhine-Marne Canal. This former bishop's castle, built in the 13th century and restored in the 19th century on the initiative of Napoleon III, now houses a museum, a cultural center, a youth hostel, and a school. The neoclassical façade (park side), made of pink sandstone, is 140 meters long, which is the same horizontal height as Strasbourg Cathedral. The Château des Rohan Museum presents extensive Gallo-Roman and medieval archaeological collections. It consists of three departments: Art and History, Louise Weiss, and Archaeology. The Art and History department encompasses many areas: paintings, prints, and 15th- and 16th-century polychrome wood carvings from the churches of Saverne and the region, as well as a room dedicated to the history of the castle. Louise Weiss Department To honor her Alsatian ties (her family originally came from Petite-Pierre near Saverne), journalist Louise Weiss (1893-1983) donated her collections (ethnographic objects, paintings, drawings, 19th- and 20th-century decorative arts, and personal archives) to the Saverne Museum in 1981 and 1983. Archaeological Department In the vaulted cellars of the castle, the museum houses a rich archaeological collection, including numerous Gallo-Roman funerary and votive steles. Tours of the museum and access to the castle roof are available (upon request). Admission (museum + roof access): €5 (adults) and €4 (students)
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The tower is also the oldest part of the church. The Romanesque main portal stands out for its ironwork. On the outer wall, the wooden units are inscribed: "This is the wooden Dan." Inside the tower is an old crucifix from 1756. Further on, the pulpit dates from 1495, bearing the stonemason's mark of Hans Hammer, a master builder for the Bishop of Strasbourg. The statue of the Virgin Mary is made of wood from the 15th century. Turning to the organ, it is a mixture of Neo-Classical and Rococo, dating from 1784. Since the ceiling collapsed, it was restored and renewed in 1983. In a small niche, there is a statue of St. Vitus. He has a recess on his chest where the hosts are kept during Easter. Marie Antoinette, who stayed in Savern on her bridal journey to Paris, is venerated in this church.
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This sculpture was made from many small pieces of wood. You can walk underneath it and look like a llama. A real eye-catcher in the square.
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Elongated rock castle above the Zorn valley, southwest of Saverne. After a varied history, it has been state property for approx. 150 years. Varied structures from different eras in the inner courtyard. Great view over the Rhine valley and the northern Vosges.
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This elongated rock castle above the Zorn Valley, southwest of Saverne, has been state property for about 150 years after a turbulent history. The courtyard features diverse buildings from different eras. Magnificent views over the Rhine Valley and the northern Vosges Mountains.
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Ottersthal offers a diverse network of over 15 hiking trails, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. These routes explore the natural beauty at the edge of the Vosges mountains.
Yes, Ottersthal has several easy hiking trails. For example, the Saint Barbara Chapel – Holy Beech Tree loop from Saverne is an easy 3.8-mile (6.2 km) route that takes about 1 hour 51 minutes to complete, perfect for a relaxed outing.
The region around Ottersthal is characterized by pure forests and nature, offering an idyllic setting for outdoor pursuits. You'll find varied terrain, from gentle paths through woodlands to more challenging trails with elevation changes, often within the cross-border biosphere reserve of the Northern Vosges.
Many of the trails around Ottersthal are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate circular route is the Saint Barbara Chapel – Picnic Area with a View loop from Danne-et-Quatre-Vents, which is 4.6 miles (7.3 km) long and offers scenic views.
The area is rich in history and natural beauty. You can discover several castles, such as the impressive Haut-Barr Castle or Lutzelbourg Castle. Natural features like the Brotsch Cave and the Prince Charles' Leap Rock also offer interesting detours.
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in the Ottersthal area, especially given the extensive forest landscapes. However, it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, particularly in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to respect local signage.
Yes, many of the easier trails are suitable for families. The region's gentle paths and woodlands provide a safe and enjoyable environment for children. The Saint Barbara Chapel – Holy Beech Tree loop from Saverne is an excellent choice for families looking for an accessible walk.
The region is beautiful throughout the year, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for hiking with milder temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter hiking is possible, but some paths might be slippery or require appropriate gear.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the extensive forests, and the opportunities to discover historical sites like castles, making for a varied and engaging outdoor experience.
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are moderate routes with more significant elevation changes. The Saint Barbara Chapel – Ladies' Rock loop from Saverne is an 8.2-mile (13.2 km) trail that leads through varied forest landscapes and takes about 3 hours 48 minutes to complete, requiring good fitness.
While specific parking details vary by trailhead, many popular starting points for hikes in the Ottersthal area, especially those near villages or attractions, typically offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check local maps or komoot tour details for specific parking information for your chosen route.


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