Kilstett brings together several distinct traces of its history: a Maginot Line fortification, memorial sites and the historic Canal Vauban, whose former waterway now also serves a practical and ecological purpose. There is also a themed walking trail and cycling options on a much larger scale. Visitors planning outings can choose between a six-kilometre trail and cycling routes ranging from 115 to 140 kilometres.
Fortification history and remembrance
The Kilstett Casemate is a Maginot Line fortification built between 1932 and 1934. It belonged to the third line, known as the village line. Its purpose was to block the routes between Kilstett and the Rhine forest. A short guided tour is required to see the interior. Check visiting arrangements before you arrive.
The memorial sites each have their own focus: the “Wall of Names” at the memorial honours the 133 victims of the Battle of Kilstett. The Monument de la Garde commemorates the men of the Republican Guard who fought in Kilstett. Both are part of the town’s history, but focus on different groups and aspects of the events.
Kilstett’s church also features specific historical and artistic details. Its choir dates from 1844/1845 and contains panelling and lacquered paintings depicting the life of Jesus. A sundial made by Laurent Hommel is also associated with the church.
Canal Vauban and the landscape
Canal Vauban was built in 1707. Historically, it connected the citadel of Strasbourg with Seltz and Fort-Louis via La Wantzenau. The former canal also serves a practical purpose today: it channels floodwater into the fields and provides refuge for animals. This waterway thus brings together its historic role in connecting several places and its present-day function in water management and the landscape.
Walking trail or cycling tour?
The Sentier découverte du Ried starts at the football pitch in Kilstett. This easy walking trail is six kilometres long, with eleven themes covered along the way. The themed content may be updated, while the trail itself remains. Check the local signs before setting out. The distance and difficulty rating provide a clear basis for deciding whether this trail suits your planned outing.
The permanent S’Rhinland cycling tour, which is associated with Kilstett, offers a very different choice of route. Options of 115, 120, 125 and 140 kilometres are listed. This gives you two clearly different scales to choose from: an easy six-kilometre walk or a cycling tour with much longer route options. Check the current route documentation before setting off, as route information may change.
Practical information
At Kilstett station, covered bicycle parking is available in enclosed shelters. Free car parking is also available there. As facilities at stations may change, check what is currently available before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Olwisheim, Berstett, Bellefosse, HĹ“rdt, Holtzheim, Hochfelden, BĹ“rsch, Erstein.
For the wider travel guide: Bas-Rhin.
