Guémar offers different ways to explore history and nature: its gates and Saint-Léger Church represent different periods of construction, while the Canardière brings together a pond, a botanical trail and nature. There is also a circular route with a set distance and duration, cycling opportunities in the town and its surroundings, and a recurring summer festival. You can therefore plan your stay around culture, outdoor activities or a seasonal event.
Gates, Church and Chapel
The Porte Haute dates from 1400. The upper gate, referred to as “Porte supérieure dite Obertor,” is listed as a protected monument; it was listed by decree of 11 May 1932.
The present-day Saint-Léger Church was built in the Baroque style in 1741; its Callinet organ was installed in 1842. The square base of the tower is attributed to the probably Romanesque style of the 12th century and is considered the only surviving evidence of earlier churches. Saint-Léger thus brings together a Baroque church building, an organ installed later, and a structural element believed to be older.
The small Saint-Maximin Chapel was built in 1824 on the same site. Along with the gates and Saint-Léger, it adds another building to the area’s historical landmarks.
The Canardière: Pond and Botanical Trail
At the edge of Guémar, on the road towards Illhaeusern, the Canardière covers more than two hectares. A botanical trail runs alongside the one-hectare pond; the trail features a wide variety of flora and fauna. The pond is therefore part of a larger natural area, where the trail draws attention to plant and animal life.
The Canardière pond has been a fishing spot since 1967. There is also a children’s play area with a slide and a swing. Nature watching, fishing and a dedicated play area offer different ways to spend time here.
Circular Route and Historic Paths
For a circular walk with a set distance and duration, the “Guémar à travers les âges” interpretation trail is a clear option: the route is 2.5 kilometres long and is listed as taking 1.5 hours. You can factor both the distance and the time required into your day’s plans.
The interpretation trail exploring the area’s historical and architectural heritage follows the Fecht River and passes the former Ladhof harbour. The former harbour is a specific landmark along the way, while the Fecht provides a further point of reference for the route.
Cycling and the Summer Festival
In Guémar and the surrounding area, you can cycle along country lanes, through the forest and on dedicated cycle paths. If you plan to cycle during your stay, you can choose between these different types of route.
A seasonal highlight is the Fête du Jambon, held in summer on the third weekend of August. The festival offers a chance to taste “jambon braisé à la guémarienne.” If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the date and details of the current edition in advance.
Discover more destinations: Lutter, Gundolsheim, Zimmerbach, Kiffis, Cernay, Battenheim, Rimbach-Près-Guebwiller, Lièpvre
For the wider travel guide: Haut-Rhin.
