Valff combines striking religious buildings with a nature trail that starts in the village. The 42-metre-high bell tower of Saint Blaise Church once served as an observation and defensive tower within the grounds of a château that was demolished at the end of the 19th century. From the third platform, visitors can look out over Valff’s houses, gardens, orchards, fields and meadows all the way to the distant Vosges. The tower thus brings together its former defensive function and sweeping views over the village and its landscape.
Saint Blaise and the Jardin du Livre
The Chapelle Saint-Blaise is another historic building: the Andlau family had it built in 1699, and the chapel bears their coat of arms. It stands in a secluded spot beside a country lane south of Valff. The similar names refer to different buildings: the Chapelle Saint-Blaise and Saint Blaise Church with its bell tower.
At the foot of Saint Blaise Church in Wihr, the Jardin du Livre lies in the former castle moat. It draws on major episodes in Judaism, Christianity and Islam, presenting them along a path through the symbolism of plants. The garden thus connects religious themes with a carefully designed route; plant symbolism is part of how these themes are presented.
The Jardin du Livre is open year-round by appointment; from late May to late September, it is open on Friday afternoons from 5 p.m. Admission is free, and donations are accepted. Check the current visiting arrangements in advance, particularly whether a volunteer guide will be present.
Building history of the Chapelle Sainte Marguerite
The Chapelle Sainte Marguerite also reflects different phases of construction. Its Gothic choir appears to date from the 15th century. The nave was rebuilt in 1566 and 1568, as indicated by markings on the nave and on a post of the organ gallery. The tentative dating of the choir and the rebuilding dates therefore refer to different parts of the building.
The 1001 Chemins de la Kirneck
A separate nature highlight, the 7-kilometre 1001 Chemins de la Kirneck trail, starts in Valff. It leads through meadows, past a gravel pit, near the confluence of two rivers, and through the forest. The route also offers panoramic views of the vineyards and Mont Sainte-Odile. Check local trail conditions before setting out.
When looking for a hotel for your trip to Valff, comparing the viewpoints can help with your planning: from the tower, the view stretches over houses, gardens, orchards, fields and meadows to the distant Vosges; the Kirneck trail offers panoramas of the vineyards and Mont Sainte-Odile. This can help you decide whether you would rather connect your stay with views of the village or with the natural scenery along the trail.
Discover more destinations: Wimmenau, Dieffenbach-Au-Val, Salmbach, Saverne, Solbach, Wolfisheim, Batzendorf, Odratzheim.
View the wider travel guide: Bas-Rhin.
