Anyone looking to combine nature experiences with local history in Willer-Sur-Thur will find several ways to do so: an extensive network of hiking trails with forest huts, the Oberfeld Discovery Trail for observing the fauna and flora of the Vosges, a fishing stretch on the Thur, and historical references dating back to 1191. There is also a seasonal planning consideration for access to the ski area on the Grand Ballon. When planning your stay, you can first decide whether trails, nature observation, history or a winter ski destination should be the focus.
Hiking Trails, Oberfeld and the Thur
An extensive network of hiking trails in Willer-Sur-Thur leads to forest huts. The Oberfeld Discovery Trail offers the opportunity to observe the fauna and flora of the Vosges. This provides different ways to enjoy nature: hiking trails with the huts as destinations, and the named trail with its focus on observation. When planning your activities, you can decide whether you would mainly like to hike or explore the wildlife and plant life.
There is also a fishing stretch on the Thur. The World Fly Fishing Championship was held there in 2007. This gives the fishing stretch a specific connection to the sport and adds another perspective on the Thur to the themes of hiking and nature observation.
Access and Winter Planning
The Route des CrĂŞtes provides direct access from Willer-Sur-Thur to the Hautes Vosges. Another, seasonal detail concerns the ski area on the Grand Ballon: in winter, Departmental Road 13 Bis VI from Willer-Sur-Thur is the only access route there. Your destination and the time of year are therefore key to planning your route. If you plan to drive to the ski area in winter, it is advisable to check the current access route before setting off.
Local History in Several Chapters
Willer-Sur-Thur was first mentioned in 1191 and was historically connected to Murbach Abbey. In the 18th century, the town experienced industrial growth with the establishment of a forge, followed by the textile industry. The historical references thus span the early mention and connection to the abbey through to a later period shaped by the forge and textile industry.
Another chapter concerns the Saint-Nicolas Chapel. The former chapel was shelled by French tanks during the liberation of Willer-Sur-Thur on December 8, 1944. The chapel was rebuilt in 1952. A recovered statue of Christ was restored and returned to the chapel after its reconstruction. The events of 1944 and the rebuilding add a much later period to the town’s earlier history.
Dining and Finding a Hotel
The Ferme Auberge de l'Ostein is one of the farm inns listed in Willer-Sur-Thur. It is associated with rustic cuisine and dishes such as Marcaire menus, pot-au-feu, boeuf bourguignon, oven-roasted pork shoulder, Munster cheese and seasonal fruit tarts. Individual dishes may vary.
When looking for a hotel in Willer-Sur-Thur, you can base your choice on the focus of your trip: hiking trails and forest huts, nature observation at Oberfeld, local history or—if you are staying in winter—the ski area on the Grand Ballon. For this last option, seasonal access should be included in your plans.
Discover more destinations: Altkirch, Labaroche, Neuf-Brisach, Kingersheim, Osenbach, Orbey, Ungersheim, Strueth.
For the wider travel overview: Haut-Rhin.
