The best walks and hikes around Macheren
4.5
(794)
3,500
hikers
26
hikes
Hiking around Macheren offers diverse landscapes, including fields, meadows, and small woods that change with the seasons. The region is characterized by its verdant nature, with ponds and streams enhancing the natural beauty of many routes. The Mettenberg, a local hill reaching 320 meters, provides panoramic views over the surrounding area, including the Vosges and the Nied valley. This varied terrain makes Macheren a compelling destination for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around Macheren
- The most popular hiking route is…
Last updated: October 9, 2026
4.6
(5)
22
hikers
9.91km
02:47
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(9)
20
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
16
hikers
10.7km
02:54
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(9)
11
hikers
8.85km
02:20
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
9.85km
02:53
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
The beautiful Marie Rocchia hiking trail runs here.
1
0
The modern low-rise building is located outside the center. You can reach the city by bus.
1
0
The Katharine Chapel is beautifully situated on a green meadow, in the chapel garden. The chapel from the 13th century was formerly the house chapel of a knightly family.
1
0
The church dates from the 14th century and has rich medieval interiors. The church has been classified as a monument historique since 1930. A sign on the church points this out. It is located on the Way of St. James and is decorated with a scallop shell.
1
0
The modern low-rise train station is located outside the center. You can get to the city center by bus.
1
0
The St. Catherine's Chapel is located in the chapel garden, beautifully surrounded by greenery. It dates back to the 13th century and used to be the house chapel of a knightly family. A scallop shell decorates the chapel.
1
0
If you drive from Oberhombourg to Niederhombourg you pass through a city gate and past sparse remains of the city wall. From up here you can take a look at Niederhombourg.
1
0
The church is from the 14th century and shows rich medieval interiors. The church has been classified as a monument historique since 1930. A sign on the church points this out. The church is on the Way of St. James.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Macheren?
Macheren offers a comprehensive network of over 28 hiking trails, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, from verdant fields and meadows to small woods and areas with ponds and streams.
What are the typical difficulty levels of hiking trails in Macheren?
The hiking trails around Macheren offer a range of difficulty levels. You'll find 5 easy routes perfect for a leisurely stroll, 22 moderate trails that provide a good challenge, and 1 difficult route for experienced hikers seeking a more strenuous adventure.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Macheren?
Yes, Macheren has several family-friendly options. The region's diverse landscapes, including fields, meadows, and small woods, offer engaging environments for all ages. An excellent choice is the Fitness Trail – Outdoor Fitness Park loop from Petit-Ebersviller, an easy 6.0 km path featuring educational panels and metallic sculptures that can be interesting for children.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Macheren?
Many trails in Macheren are suitable for dogs, especially those that wind through fields, meadows, and woods. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near agricultural land. The natural settings with ponds and streams also offer refreshing spots for pets.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can I expect to see on the trails?
Macheren's trails are rich in natural beauty and historical points of interest. You can expect to see verdant nature, including fields, meadows, and small woods, as well as ponds and streams. A significant natural highlight is the Mettenberg, offering broad panoramic views. Some routes also feature unique attractions like an imposing sequoia tree, contemporary metallic sculptures, an ancient chapel, and the oratory of Heiligenbronn, associated with a spring once believed to cure eye diseases.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, many of the hiking routes around Macheren are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the popular Chapelle Sainte-Catherine – Old Town Gate loop from Macheren is a 9.9 km circular trail that takes you past a sequoia tree and metallic sculptures.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Macheren?
The hiking experience in Macheren is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 680 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the serene natural settings, and the well-maintained paths that allow for quick immersion in nature. The panoramic views from spots like the Mettenberg are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic panoramas along the trails?
Absolutely. A notable highlight is the Mettenberg, the highest point of a local hiking route at 320 meters. From its summit, you can enjoy broad panoramic views stretching south to the Vosges, north to St Avold, and east over the Nied valley. Additionally, the Panoramic Platform at Barrois Quarry offers another excellent vantage point.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Macheren?
Macheren's 'green nature' transforms with the seasons, making it appealing year-round. Spring brings fresh blooms, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. The presence of ponds and streams adds to the beauty in all seasons. Consider your preference for weather and scenery when planning your visit.
Are there any educational trails in the area?
Yes, Macheren features the 'Chemin Eden' Educational Trail, whose name stands for 'Entretien Des Espaces Naturels' (Maintenance of Natural Spaces). This pedestrian path connects Macheren and Petit-Ebersviller and includes educational panels highlighting the area's natural riches, alongside metallic sculptures by M. Belvoix.
Are there any trails that go past lakes or ponds?
Yes, the presence of ponds and streams is a characteristic feature of Macheren's natural beauty. For instance, the Joli chemin forestier – Pond Behind the Paper Mill loop from St.Avold Moulin Neuf is an 13.1 km trail that leads through forest paths and past a pond, offering a scenic experience.
Where can I find parking for the hiking trails?
While specific parking locations for every trail are not detailed here, Macheren is generally accessible, and parking is available in and around the village. Many trailheads, especially for popular routes, often have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for specific parking information.
Most popular attractions around Macheren
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
