Crossing the Vosges mountains from north to south in 7 days – from Saverne to Barr

Embark on an exceptional tour of history, nature and heritage. For 6 days, follow a unique itinerary through the heart of Alsace, from the Vosges foothills to famous vineyards, through deep forests, typical villages and medieval ruins. An adventure that’s both sporting and cultural, accessible to those with a passion for walking and authentic discovery.

Day 1: Arrival in Saverne: gateway to the Vosges mountains

Your journey begins in Saverne, a charming town nestled at the foot of the Vosges mountains. Take advantage of your arrival to discover its historic center, marked by a rich past of half-timbered houses, the Rohan castle and the Marne-Rhine canal. A first peaceful immersion in the Alsatian atmosphere, before starting your adventure.

Day 2: Saverne to Wangenbourg approx. 20 km

As soon as you leave Saverne, the trail climbs up to the Haut-Barr castle, perched on three rocky spurs. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views over the Alsace plain to the skyline of Strasbourg. The route then takes you from fortress to fortress, through forests and ridges, to Wangenbourg, a mountain village nicknamed « the Switzerland of Alsace ».

Day 3: Wangenbourg to Oberhaslach approx. 16 km

A day of nature and legends. After climbing the Schneeberg, you descend to the spectacular 25-metre-high Nideck waterfall and its mysterious ruins. The legend of the Nideck giants lends it a unique atmosphere. The stage ends in the Oberhaslach valley, in the heart of a wild and unspoilt environment.

Day 4: Oberhaslach to Ottrott approx. 23 km

This stage crosses the Bruche valley, following the GR5. You pass wooded peaks such as the Purpurkopf, home to the remains of Alsace’s oldest known castle. Along the way, you’ll discover the villages of Urmatt and Grendelbruch, then Klingenthal and its former royal sword factory, testimony to local know-how under Louis XV.

Day 5: Ottrott to Hohwald approx. 15 km

One of the highlights of the hike: a visit to Mont-Sainte-Odile. Alsace’s spiritual Mecca, this emblematic site offers a breathtaking view over the plain. You’ll then follow the mysterious Pagan Wall, past the ruins of the Dreistein and Birkenfels, before reaching Le Hohwald, a peaceful mountain resort nestled among centuries-old fir trees.

Day 6: Hohwald to Barr approx. 17 km

A gentle descent into the vineyards, passing through Andlau with its Romanesque abbey church, then Mittelbergheim, a wine-growing village listed as one of the most beautiful in France. Here, each alleyway tells its own story, between blond stones, winegrowers’ houses and renowned Grands Crus. Arrival in Barr, a pretty town with a rich heritage, marks the end of an unforgettable journey.

Day 7: End of stay or extension

After a final breakfast, you can extend your stay in Alsace or leave with your head full of memories. Why not round off this wonderful adventure with a glass of local wine, overlooking the Zotzenberg vineyards?

Get ready for total immersion in the true, generous and fascinating Alsace. Book your turnkey tour now and let us guide you through the centuries on the paths of the castles!