Attractions and Places To See around Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines include a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural insights. This commune, nestled in the Val d'Argent, is characterized by its mining past and the scenic Lièpvrette river valley. The surrounding landscape features lush forests, deep valleys, and notable massifs like the Taennchel, offering diverse natural features. The area provides opportunities to explore historical sites and enjoy the natural environment.
Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines
- The most popular attractions is Saint-Ulrich Castle, a castle that is the largest and best-preserved of the three castles of Ribeauvillé. Built around the 13th century, it offers extensive ruins to explore, including an accessible keep.
- Another must-see spot is Ribeauvillé, a settlement known for its picturesque old town with half-timbered houses and medieval monuments. Visitors can expect to see buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries, including the Tour des Bouchers.
- Visitors also love Haut-Ribeaupierre Castle, a castle ruin located above Ribeauvillé. This imposing complex, though less preserved than Saint-Ulrich, offers views of the surrounding countryside and vineyards.
- Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines is known for its historical castles, charming settlements, and scenic viewpoints. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from medieval ruins to well-preserved villages.
- The attractions around Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1800 upvotes and over 1300 photos shared across 6 highlights.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Saint-Ulrich Castle
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Riquewihr
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Ribeauvillé
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Girsberg Castle
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Haut-Ribeaupierre Castle
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It is not as well preserved as St. Ulrich. Its tower can no longer be climbed. However, the remains of the gates, walls and keep remain impressive.
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Tips from the Community
The large wall at the rear of the ruins has been reinforced. The keep is also now dilapidated. To prevent anyone from climbing the tower, the lower staircase has been removed.
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Saunt Ulric Castle is the largest of the three ruins. It is currently undergoing partial renovation. A small section is cordoned off, and caution is advised in other areas. However, the keep is accessible.
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A charming Alsatian village with approximately 4,700 inhabitants. The old town is well worth seeing with its colorful houses. Ribeauvillé is also very popular because of the hike to its three castle ruins that overlook the town.
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The castle of Haut-Ribeaupierre (Hohrappoltstein) was probably built during the turmoil of the Interregnum around the mid-13th century. It served as an outpost at a time when the King of France was planning to invade Alsace. Later, it served as an observation tower for early warning of forest fires. The entire castle complex is dominated by an imposing circular keep, which offers a magnificent view of the Alsatian plain and the surrounding mountain ridges.
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Ulrichsburg is the most impressive and best-preserved of the three castles. It was built on the rocky promontory around the mid-13th century. Until the 15th century, it was the residence of the Rappoltstein family and therefore has little military significance. Remains still visible today include: - the square keep and the main building (12th century), - the knights' hall and the large residential tower (13th century), - the barbican in front of the entrance and the outer wall (14th century), - the Chapel of Saint Ulrich (15th century). Girsberg Castle, built around 1250 opposite Ulrichsburg, was intended to strengthen its defenses.
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Among the four ruins that dominate Ribeauvillé, Saint Ulrich seems undoubtedly one of the most fascinating castle complexes in the Haute- Alsace. It used to control the strategic road that connected the Alsace plain with the upper Lièpvre valley. Witness to the power of the lords of Ribeaupierre, it was their main residence until its final abandonment in the 16th century. It has different architectural styles: Romanesque parts are combined with Gothic and even Renaissance elements. Not far away, Girsberg Castle was built in the 13th century to house a new branch of the Ribeaupierre family: the house is still clearly visible there. Haut-Ribeaupierre was certainly built during the troubled period of the Great Interregnum, around the middle of the 13th century. on the site of a first castle, probably from the 10th century: it will serve as an advance post during the planned invasion of Alsace by the King of France, and then as a watchtower intended to prevent forest fires. The entire building is dominated by an imposing circular keep that offers beautiful views of the Alsace plain and the adjacent mountain ridges. A fourth castle was recently discovered under Saint Ulrich. Source: https://www.chateauxfortsalsace.com/fr/chateau/le-chateau-du-girsberg/
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Beautiful castle ruins, the view of the vineyards and the Rhine plain is gigantic. The climb is very varied, but not without its challenges! There are a few short rocky passages that can be slippery, especially when wet, and may need to be managed with the help of your hands. Good footwear is definitely recommended.
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Beautiful castle ruins that are well worth the walk up. Also many views over the valley with vineyards and Ribeauvillé and the forests on the other side. Don't forget to look over the wall for a beautiful overview of the castle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I visit within Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines?
Within Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines, you can explore the grand Villa Burrus and its Botanical Park, a former residence of the wealthy Burrus family, now featuring themed gardens. The ruins of Château d'Echéry, a fortified castle from the 12th or 13th century, are also notable. For a peaceful spot with historical significance, visit the Chapelle de la Goutte du Prince, an 18th-century pilgrimage site offering stunning views.
What natural attractions can I explore in the Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines area?
Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines is nestled in the scenic Val d'Argent, offering lush greenery and deep forests. You can visit the Col des Bagenelles at 903 meters for breathtaking panoramic views, or explore the mysterious rocks of the Taennchel Massif to the south. The Rocher des Reptiles, at 954 meters, also provides fantastic views of the village and surrounding areas.
Are there opportunities for hiking or cycling near Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines?
Yes, the area is well-suited for outdoor activities. You can find dedicated cycle routes like the Val d'Argent cycle route, which follows an old railway line. For hiking, a 7.4-kilometer route leads to the Chapelle de la Goutte du Prince. Additionally, you can find various running trails, MTB trails, and gravel biking routes around Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines.
What picturesque villages are worth visiting near Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines?
Nearby, you can visit Ribeauvillé, known for its picturesque old town with half-timbered houses and medieval monuments from the 16th and 17th centuries. Another highly recommended village is Riquewihr, a very well-preserved medieval village with narrow streets, cobblestone pavement, and city walls, often described as one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Are there any notable castles near Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines?
Absolutely. The region is rich in castles. You can explore Saint-Ulrich Castle, the largest and best-preserved of the three castles of Ribeauvillé, offering extensive ruins and an accessible keep. Also nearby are Girsberg Castle and Haut-Ribeaupierre Castle, both offering historical insights and scenic views over the surrounding countryside and vineyards.
What is the mining heritage of Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines?
Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines has a significant mining past, with a rich history of silver and other metal mining from the 16th to the 18th centuries, which greatly contributed to its prosperity. Coal mines also operated in the village until 1849. While specific mine tours are not explicitly detailed, the region's mining history is a core cultural aspect, shaping its development and identity.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines?
Visitors frequently praise the well-preserved nature of the historical sites. For instance, Saint-Ulrich Castle is noted for its extensive and accessible ruins, offering beautiful views. The medieval villages like Riquewihr are cherished for their completely preserved old towns, making visitors feel transported back to the Middle Ages. The picturesque scenery and panoramic views from various castles and natural spots are also highly appreciated.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines and the surrounding area?
Yes, the region offers several family-friendly options. The Botanical Park at Villa Burrus in Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines includes a children's playground. The nearby villages of Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé are considered family-friendly due to their charming, walkable old towns. For animal encounters, La Montagne des Singes (Monkey Mountain) and The Eagle Park in Kintzheim are popular choices for families.
Where can I find the best panoramic views around Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines?
For stunning panoramic views, head to the Col des Bagenelles, located at an altitude of 903 meters. The Chapelle de la Goutte du Prince also offers beautiful vistas of the Grand Rombach valley. Additionally, the Rocher des Reptiles provides fantastic views of Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines and its surrounding villages. The castle ruins, such as Saint-Ulrich Castle and Haut-Ribeaupierre Castle, also boast impressive outlooks over the plain and vineyards.
What is the significance of the Val d'Argent for Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines?
Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines is situated within the Val d'Argent, a scenic valley carved by the Lièpvrette river. This valley is central to the commune's identity, offering a blend of natural beauty with lush greenery and deep forests, and serving as the backdrop for its historical development, particularly its mining past. It provides the natural setting for many outdoor activities and scenic drives in the area.
Are there any specific cycling routes recommended in the area?
Yes, the Val d'Argent cycle route is a notable option, following an old railway line. For more challenging rides, you can explore various MTB trails and gravel biking routes, such as the 'Haut de Ribeauvillé Pass loop from Sainte-Croix-aux-Mines' or the 'Kientzheim Village – Kaysersberg loop from Ribeauvillé'.
What are some other significant attractions in the broader region near Sainte-Croix-Aux-Mines?
Beyond the immediate vicinity, you can visit the renowned Chateau du Haut Koenigsbourg, a well-known historic castle in Alsace. The charming towns of Colmar, with its well-preserved old town and 'La Petite Venise' area, and the picturesque villages of Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr are also highly recommended for their unique character and historical architecture.
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