A glassmaking history, a 23-metre-high waterfall and trails of varying difficulty give you several ways to explore Wildenstein. The village was founded in 1699; nearby nature and leisure destinations, such as Lac de Kruth-Wildenstein, also add to the experience. For planning, it helps to decide what you would like to focus on: learning about the village’s history, choosing a hike or including activities at the lake. The places and activities below each offer their own focus, without requiring you to follow a set itinerary.
Hiking trails of varying difficulty
The very easy eco-hike to Cascade du Heidenbad is 1.5 kilometres long and has an elevation gain of 57 metres. Its destination is a 23-metre-high waterfall in the Vosges massif, within the municipality of Wildenstein. Check local conditions before setting out. If you are looking for a circular trail with small discoveries along the way, the Sentier de la Pierre Sauvage is a four-kilometre loop around the municipality. The route features numerous curiosities and playful areas; it also tells everyday stories about local residents from the early 20th century onwards.
Another option near Wildenstein is the Sentier de découverte du Schlossberg. The route is 1.2 kilometres long, takes about one hour and 30 minutes, and has an elevation gain of 130 metres. Seventeen information panels accompany the trail, which leads to the ruins of Château du Wildenstein. Compared with the very easy Heidenbad hike, with its 57-metre elevation gain, this trail involves 130 metres of elevation gain; an approximate duration is also given for it.
Cascade du Bockloch can also be the starting point for a circular trail through the narrow Hinterbockloch valley. This route in the surrounding area is listed as taking 1.5 hours and having an elevation gain of 360 metres. It is therefore quite different from the short Heidenbad hike. Conditions may vary by season, so take this into account when planning.
Glassmaking history in the village
Wildenstein was founded in 1699; the first document from that year mentions the settlement of glassmakers. The exhibition room of the Association des Amis des Verriers de Wildenstein can be visited at the town hall in Wildenstein by appointment. Arrange your visit in advance. The association lists exhibitions, conferences, a glass fair, publications, as well as outings and guided tours among its activities. Both the early history of glassmaking and the association’s work today offer cultural points of interest.
Wetland and nature interests
The Prairies humides de la Thur à Kruth et Wildenstein are located in the municipalities of Kruth and Wildenstein and cover 90.98 hectares. A nature description updated on 12 June 2024 highlights the wetland’s botanical and ornithological importance, including several occurrences of the white crocus. For nature enthusiasts, this look at wet meadows, plants and birds adds a distinct theme to the hiking trails.
Activities at Lac de Kruth-Wildenstein
At Lac de Kruth-Wildenstein, Parc Arbre Aventure offers a high ropes course, Via Ferrata, a zip line across the lake, geocaching, mountain bike and e-mountain bike rentals, as well as pedal boats and canoes. Check what is available before your trip. A Nat’Mouv trail is also available at the lake: a smartphone app guides you through your chosen exercise circuit and difficulty level. Check that this app-based activity is available before travelling.
When planning, you can decide whether to focus mainly on destinations within the municipality or include nearby activities as well.
Events in June
The Courses du lac de Kruth-Wildenstein are annual races, usually held on the first Saturday in June in Kruth and Wildenstein. Check the date of the relevant edition before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Hippolyte, Mittlach, Eguisheim, Sewen, Stosswihr, Burnhaupt-Le-Haut, Mulhouse, Morschwiller-Le-Bas
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