Attractions and Places To See around Hohwald - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Hohwald include natural features, historical sites, and cultural landmarks nestled in the Vosges mountains of Alsace, France. The region is characterized by lush pine and fir forests, offering a tranquil environment for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore an extensive network of Hohwald hiking trails and discover the area's diverse landscapes, from mountain streams to granite formations. Hohwald provides a variety of attractions for those seeking nature and historical exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Hohwald
- The most popular attractions is Mount Sainte-Odile, a religious site that offers extensive views. This monastery complex includes a hotel and restaurant, and features a Gnomonic monument with multiple sundials.
- Another must-see spot is Bernstein Castle, a castle ruin located about 560 meters above sea level. The tower can be climbed, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Visitors also love Andlau Castle, an atypical fortification with two towers. This picturesque ruin offers a magnificent view over Barr and provides information panels explaining its historical components.
- Hohwald is known for its natural features, historical sites, and cultural landmarks. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including waterfalls, extensive Hohwald hiking trails, and architectural heritage.
- The attractions around Hohwald are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1500 upvotes and over 1100 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Mount Sainte-Odile
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The monastery complex now also houses a hotel and a restaurant. The monastery can largely be visited freely and there are many corners to go 'into yourself'.
The place is widely known and popular, so it is usually well frequented.
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Vineyards around Mittelbergheim
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Andlau Castle
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Bernstein Castle
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The tower can be climbed.
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Ortenbourg Castle
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Popular around Hohwald
Sentier de l'Europe (GR 5) – Montbéliard to Abreschviller
From one slope to the other – Crossing the Champ du Feu
Beautiful passes In the Vosges Mountains
Hiking around Hohwald
MTB Trails around Hohwald
Road Cycling Routes around Hohwald
Running Trails around Hohwald
Cycling around Hohwald
Gravel biking around Hohwald
Mountain Hikes around Hohwald
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At the end of the ridge, at an altitude of 443 meters, lies Ortenbourg Castle, built between 1260 and 1265 by Rudolf Habsburg and one of the most beautiful ruins in the Rhine Valley. A masterpiece of military architecture, with its high gorge surrounding a 32-meter-long dungeon, it is visible from afar and blends perfectly into the landscape. This dungeon offered six levels of defensive fire, and its pentagonal design allowed for better deflection of attackers' projectiles. The recently founded association "Les sentinelles de l'Ortenbourg" (Ortenbourg Sentinels) aims to preserve, expand, and revitalize the castle.
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The castle was built around 1264 by the Lords of Andlau, Knights of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation, and was largely spared the destructive fury of the Thirty Years' War. During the French Revolution, the castle was confiscated as national property and sold to a merchant in 1796, who resold it piece by piece from 1806 onward, without much notice. In 1818, the Andlau family bought back the castle to preserve its remains. This painstaking and meticulous work is now undertaken by the association "Les Amis du Château d'Andlau" (Friends of the Castle of Andlau).
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The tour from Dambach la ville is not too long or too difficult, and can be walked or run. However, I recommend appropriate footwear (hiking shoes, trail running shoes), as there are a few places on the descent, for which you can choose from two options, that require surefootedness. From the castle ruins you have a wonderful view over the Rhine plain to the Black Forest.
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The two majestic towers, visible from afar, crown the 451-meter-high Silberberg and give this castle a proud appearance above the towns of Andlau and Barr. The castle was built around 1264 by the Lords of Andlau, Knights of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation, and was largely spared the destructive fury of the Thirty Years' War. During the French Revolution, the castle was confiscated as national property and sold to a merchant in 1796, who sold it piece by piece from 1806 onwards without anyone taking much notice. In 1818, the Andlau family bought the castle back in order to preserve its remains. A laborious and meticulous job that is now undertaken by the association "Les Amis du Château d'Andlau" (The Friends of the Castle of Andlau). Info from: https://www.alsaceterredechateaux.com/de/burgen-und-befestigte-staedte/hoh-andlau-haut-andlau/
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Well-preserved castle with two towers. It looks really good from the inside.
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Also known as Haut-Andlau, Andlau Castle is an atypical fortification with its two towers which stand on the heights of the Alsatian vineyard. The place is perfect as a hiking objective from Andlau, Mittelbergheim or Barr.
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In July and August there is a small market on Wednesday evenings from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with fresh tarte flambée, wine and beer, bread and sausages that you can roast yourself on the wood grill.
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Beautiful castle ruins with great views
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular attractions around Hohwald?
Visitors frequently enjoy Mount Sainte-Odile, a significant religious site offering extensive views and a monastery complex. Other popular spots include the ruins of Bernstein Castle and Andlau Castle, both providing panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Are there family-friendly activities in Hohwald?
Yes, Hohwald offers several family-friendly options. The Hohwald Waterfall (Cascade du Hohwald) is easily accessible via a shaded footpath and suitable for all ages. The extensive network of forest trails includes easy circuits perfect for families, and the Arboretum features a remarkable range of trees and 17 animal sculptures that children might enjoy. Mount Sainte-Odile is also considered family-friendly.
What natural features can I explore in Hohwald?
Hohwald is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the impressive Hohwald Waterfall, explore the source of the Bruche river, or hike through vast beech and fir forests. The region also features granite rock formations and the notable natural site of Champ du Feu. The Mount Sainte-Odile offers stunning views over Alsace.
What historical and cultural sites are there to visit?
Beyond the popular castles, Hohwald has a rich history. You can explore the ruins of Ortenbourg Castle, a masterpiece of military architecture. The Heidi-Hautval Fountain, dedicated to human rights, and the historic Grand Hôtel and Villa le Bois-Joli from the 19th century reflect the area's past. The Pays de Barr area, where Hohwald is located, is also known for its vineyards and traditional villages like Mittelbergheim.
What kind of hiking trails are available in Hohwald?
Hohwald boasts an extensive network of marked hiking trails, ranging from 120 to 200 kilometers, suitable for various skill levels. These trails wind through forests, past mountain streams, and granite formations. The village is also a stopover on the long-distance GR5 trail. For more specific routes, you can find options like the 'Au Champ du Feu – Kreuzweg Pass loop' or 'Étang de Zundelkopf loop' on the running trails guide.
Are there cycling or mountain biking routes near Hohwald attractions?
Yes, the area provides green and blue runs for mountain biking and Nordic walking, with routes for both families and experienced riders. You can find challenging gravel biking routes like the 'Mount Sainte-Odile – Bernstein Castle loop' on the gravel biking guide. For road cycling, routes such as the 'Andlau Castle – Andlau loop' are available on the cycling guide.
What are the best viewpoints in the Hohwald region?
For breathtaking vistas, Mount Sainte-Odile offers extensive views over Alsace. The ruins of Bernstein Castle and Andlau Castle also provide magnificent panoramic views. Additionally, Gérard Starck's Belvedere is an artistic structure installed on a panoramic balcony, offering scenic views.
What is the best time of year to visit Hohwald?
Hohwald is beautiful year-round. The Hohwald Waterfall is particularly stunning in autumn with its vibrant colors and can even freeze in winter, offering a unique spectacle. Spring and summer are ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, with lush forests and pleasant temperatures. The region's natural beauty changes with each season, providing different experiences.
Are there any unique artistic or architectural features in Hohwald?
Beyond its natural beauty, Hohwald features unique artistic and architectural elements. You can discover 'Les quatre pierres' (The Four Stones), a work of art sculpted in pink Vosges sandstone, and Gérard Starck's Belvedere, an artistic creation evoking a Roman baptistery. The village also showcases 17 sculptures representing animals and philosophical concepts within its arboretum.
What is the significance of the Heidi-Hautval Fountain?
The Heidi-Hautval Fountain, inaugurated in 1991, is dedicated to Heidi Hautval (1906-1988), a native of Hohwald who dedicated her life to human rights. It features a poignant inscription in eleven languages: "Think and act according to the clear waters of your being." The fountain also marks the starting point of a "path of memory and human rights" leading to the Struthof camp.
Can I find local produce or wine in the Hohwald area?
Yes, Hohwald is located in the authentic Pays de Barr area, which is renowned for its culinary delights. This region is famous for its eight grand cru wines, local cheeses, and traditional gingerbread. You can explore the vineyards around Mittelbergheim, a charming village on the Alsace Wine Route, to experience these local specialties.
What do visitors enjoy most about Hohwald?
Visitors particularly appreciate Hohwald for its tranquil natural environment, extensive hiking opportunities, and the stunning panoramic views from its historical sites. The blend of serene forests, impressive waterfalls, and ancient castle ruins like Bernstein Castle and Andlau Castle, combined with the cultural significance of places like Mount Sainte-Odile, makes it a cherished destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
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