Wissembourg is a small town in France on the border with Germany at the foot of the Vosges Mountains. In this hike, we started in Wissembourg in early 2022 winter and walked through the forests and vineyards towards Germany and back.
In this video, I go on a hike around Wissembourg, a historic town in the Alsace region of northeastern France, close to the German border. The area combines charming medieval streets, vineyards, rolling hills, and forest trails, making it an ideal place for walking and discovering both nature and culture.
Wissembourg itself is a beautiful starting point. The town has a long history, with well-preserved half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and impressive old buildings such as the Abbey Church of Saints Peter and Paul, one of the largest Gothic churches in Alsace. Walking through the town before or after a hike gives a sense of its heritage and the blend of French and German influences that shape the region.
The countryside around Wissembourg offers a variety of landscapes. To the west, the trails lead into the Vosges du Nord Regional Nature Park, an area of forested hills, sandstone cliffs, and quiet valleys. These paths feel peaceful and natural, often shaded by tall trees and accompanied by birdsong. In autumn, the colours of the forest are especially beautiful, while in spring and summer the trails are full of fresh greenery.
To the east and south of the town, the scenery opens into vineyards and farmland. This part of Alsace is famous for its wines, especially Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewürztraminer. Hiking through the vineyards gives wide views across the landscape, dotted with small villages and church spires. The rows of vines create a special atmosphere, especially in harvest season when the grapes are ripe.
The hiking routes around Wissembourg often connect to small Alsatian villages, each with its own charm. Many have traditional houses, wine cellars, and local restaurants serving regional food. Stopping in a village along the way gives a taste of Alsace’s culture, where French and German traditions meet in both cuisine and architecture.
The proximity to the German border also makes the hike unique. The cultural mix is visible everywhere, from the language and food to the building styles and traditions. This cross-border atmosphere adds depth to the experience, as the landscape and history do not stop at national lines but blend naturally.
The atmosphere of a hike around Wissembourg changes with the time of year. In spring, the vineyards and fields come alive with fresh growth; in summer, the long days make it perfect for exploring; in autumn, the colours of the vines and forests are at their peak; and even in winter, the quiet landscapes have a calm beauty.
This video captures the feeling of hiking around Wissembourg: the medieval streets, the vineyards, the forest trails, and the overall charm of Alsace. It is not a detailed guide but a general impression of the atmosphere and beauty of this part of France.
For travelers, a hike here is more than just a walk. It is a way to experience Alsace at a slower pace, to connect with its history and landscapes, and to enjoy the unique blend of cultures that define the region. Whether for a day trip or a longer stay, Wissembourg and its surroundings offer a memorable hiking experience.