The best MTB trails around Zellweiler

The Odilienberg (763 m) in Alsace is the most important spiritual center of the region. Founded around 690 by Saint Odilia, the monastery attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims annually. The centerpiece of the complex is the Basilica of the Assumption of Mary (1687–1692) with the burial chapel, where the relics of the patron saint rest in an 8th-century sandstone sarcophagus. Directly on the panoramic terrace are the Chapel of Tears and the Chapel of Angels (12th century), known for their luminous gold mosaics from 1935. Inside the basilica, there is also a fine wooden inlaid Way of the Cross by Charles Spindler. Below the monastery rocks runs a magnificent hiking trail. It leads past the monumental, colorful ceramic Way of the Cross (14 stations) and the Lourdes Grotto, both integrated directly into the red sandstone by Léon Elchinger in the 1930s. About a 15-minute walk further down, the Odilien spring emerges in the forest, its water traditionally sought for eye ailments. The entire mountain plateau is enclosed by the Heidenmauer, a mysterious, 11-kilometer-long prehistoric defensive wall. Following the hiking trails further south, you reach the Maennelstein (817 m), the highest point of the ridge, which offers a wide panoramic view over the Rhine plain to the Black Forest. The monastery grounds are open all year round and admission is free. Would you like to use this short text for a brochure or are you still looking for information on how to get there for your tour? AI answers may contain errors. For legal advice, you should consult an expert. More information

The monumental ceramic Way of the Cross on Mont Sainte-Odile (French: Chemin de Croix du Mont Sainte-Odile) was created between 1933 and 1935 by the renowned Alsatian artist and master ceramicist Léon Elchinger (1871–1942). From an art historical perspective, it is considered one of the most significant and ambitious masterpieces of sacred ceramic art in Alsace.

Beautiful viewpoint of the Rhine valley and the Black Forest. The Panoramafelsen is located at 780 m.

The Maennelstein (Männelstein) is a striking, 817-meter-high Bunter sandstone rock on the southern edge of the Odilienberg (Mont Sainte-Odile) in Alsace. It is considered one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the region and offers a wide panoramic view over the Rhine plain, the Black Forest, and on clear days even as far as the Alps.

This imposing sandstone block is located below the enclosure of the Pagan Wall (Mur Païen), about fifty meters away. Before the expansion of the forest, this rock offered an excellent vantage point (Lauerposten) to monitor the access to Mont Sainte-Odile on the road from Barr. As proof of the importance of this place, the watchstone was connected to the main enclosure by a cross-wall of the same construction as the Pagan Wall. The sandstone blocks were connected to each other by a system of oak dowels and mortises (Mortaises et Tenons).

Champ du Feu, at 1099 meters, is the highest mountain in the Bas-Rhin department of the Vosges in Alsace. It lies between the towns of Belmont and Le Hohwald and consists of an extensive high plateau with forests, meadows, and moorlands. The area is a popular nature and recreational area. In summer, it is mainly used for hiking, mountain biking, and nature observation. In winter, there is a small ski area with cross-country trails and simple slopes for winter sports. The brook La Serva originates from Champ du Feu, later forming the Cascade de la Serva. In clear weather, the summit offers wide views over the Vosges, the Rhine plain, and as far as the Black Forest. The area is particularly known for its tranquil nature, high moors, sunrises and starry skies, as well as well-marked hiking trails.

A place with a very special atmosphere.

beautiful path below the impressive rocks