Châtenois

" Located at the heart of the Wine Route and at the entrance to the Val de Villé and Val d'Argent valleys, the mysterious Châtenois has not yet revealed all the secrets of its tumultuous past. "

Châtenois, located on the Wine Route, is a fortified town with remarkable charm. Mentioned as a ‘fortified castle’ as early as 1298, it served as an aristocratic residence and refuge in times of conflict. Two walls dating from the 13th and 15th centuries still surround the town and are showcased each year during the Fête des Remparts festival.

Among the most emblematic buildings are the Tour des Sorcières, a 15th-century Gothic gate opening onto the old castle, and the 18th-century Saint-Georges church, which houses a Silbermann organ. The fortified cemetery, the bailiff's house, the medieval garden and the Sainte-Croix and Sainte-Anne chapels complete this rich heritage ensemble.

Recent excavations have revealed wine cellars, barrels and a wine press, confirming the historical importance of the site, now one of the largest medieval archaeological sites in Alsace.

From the church, a path leads along the ramparts before reaching the narrow streets lined with Alsatian houses decorated with flowers. Around the town, there are many activities to discover: cycle paths, slowUp in June, hikes in the vineyards, on the GR5 or even the Way of St James.

A visit to a wine cellar or a meal featuring local specialities, such as tarte flambée, is the ideal way to round off your walk. Châtenois combines medieval heritage, traditional architecture and unspoilt nature.