Hiking in the Vosges Mountains and Christmas Markets in Alsace

Depending on snow conditions, set off on a magnificent hike or snowshoe trek to discover the Tête des Faux massif. Between fir forests, silent undergrowth, immaculate meadows and trails covered in a thick blanket of white, you will find yourself in a postcard-perfect winter landscape.

Along the route, superb panoramas unfold over the Orbey valley and the Vosges peaks. Your Mountain Guide will share with you the secrets of this territory, its history, its landscapes shaped by man and nature, as well as the traditions of the Pays Welche, this distinctive region of which the Auberge de l'Étang du Devin is a proud part.

At lunchtime, you'll enjoy a picnic lunch carefully prepared by the inn. Weather permitting, you can savor it outdoors, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes. If snow or wind threatens, you'll find refuge in a cozy mountain cabin, where the meal will take on an adventurous and convivial atmosphere.

A day at the rhythm of the mountains, between unspoiled nature, living heritage and moments of sharing.

The morning begins with the enchanting aromas of cinnamon, vanilla, and gingerbread. Alongside Clarisse, discover one of the most beautiful rituals of the Alsatian holidays: the making of the famous bredalas , those little Christmas cookies that every family prepares with passion. Behind each recipe lie memories, jealously guarded secrets, and those joyful, food-related rivalries between neighbors, friends, or generations of the same family to create the most beautiful and delicious cookies.

In a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Clarisse will guide you step by step to create your own assortment. You'll leave with your creations, ready to be enjoyed or given as gifts, along with a recipe booklet to bring a little bit of the magic of Christmas in Alsace into your own home.

In the afternoon, a change of scenery: we'll take you to Colmar, whose Christmas markets are among the most enchanting in Europe. Upon arrival, let yourself be captivated by the cobbled streets, the beautifully decorated half-timbered houses, and the illuminations that transform the city into a true Christmas tale.

Stroll freely among the various markets set up in the heart of the historic center, discovering the artisans, creators, and culinary treasures of the region. As evening falls, when the lights are reflected in the canals of Little Venice and Colmar reveals all its magic, we'll meet you for the return trip to the hostel.

Let yourself be carried away by the magic of winter during a magnificent hike on foot or snowshoes on the Vosges ridges.

Along the snow-covered trails, the mountain reveals its full beauty: fir forests draped in white, vast pristine meadows, soothing silence, and lakes frozen solid create a landscape of rare serenity. Each step is an invitation to slow down, breathe the crisp mountain air, and immerse oneself in this unspoiled nature.

From a scenic viewpoint, panoramic views unfold as far as the eye can see, encompassing the Alsace plain, the Black Forest, and, on a perfectly clear day, the majestic Bernese Alps with their snow-capped peaks on the horizon. These breathtaking moments are among the most beautiful sights the Vosges Mountains have to offer in winter.

Your Mountain Guide will share with you the secrets of these landscapes, the discreet wildlife that inhabits the forests and the stories that give a soul to these mountains.

A magnificent day, between wide open spaces, winter light and exceptional panoramas, to conclude your stay in style and leave with images filling your eyes… and your heart.

After a short transfer to the Col des Bagenelles, we set off to explore the peaks of Petit and Grand Brézouard. The route crosses beautiful high-altitude forests and open clearings, offering a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere.

At the summit, magnificent panoramas unfold over the Vosges valleys and the surrounding mountains. A picnic is planned in a cabin in the heart of nature, before a gentle descent back to the pass.

Return to the hostel in the late afternoon, with the possibility of extending this moment of well-being with a well-deserved sauna session after the hike.

In the morning we leave for Ribeauvillé, a magnificent medieval village with authentic charm, which you will have time to discover before starting your hike.

A self-supported hike, but perfectly prepared!

Thierry will provide you with the route, the GPX track, and a detailed road book to guide you throughout the journey. You can then travel at your own pace, in complete freedom, through the enchanting landscapes of the Alsatian vineyards, to reach Riquewihr.

Upon arrival, take the time to visit Riquewihr, one of the most beautiful villages in Alsace, with its picturesque alleyways, half-timbered houses and its charm as a true postcard village.

Then, we'll head to Kaysersberg, where we'll meet you at the end of the day to enjoy its internationally renowned Christmas market. Illuminated streets, chalets, decorations, and a magical atmosphere... all the ingredients are there to immerse you in the magic of Christmas!

From an organizational standpoint, there's nothing to manage!

We drop you off in the morning in Ribeauvillé, the starting point of your adventure, and we pick you up in the evening in Kaysersberg.

An original day to discover Alsace in a different way: a self-guided hike, charming villages, the Alsatian vineyards and finally, the magic of an unmissable Christmas market!

You walk at your own pace, we take care of the logistics.

After a final, delicious breakfast at the inn, it will be time to head home… unless you wish to prolong the magic. We would be delighted to recommend the most beautiful Alsatian villages, must-see sites, museums, or some excellent restaurants to discover.

Depending on the dates of your stay, take the opportunity to visit the medieval Christmas market of Ribeauvillé, open only on Saturdays and Sundays in December, one of the most authentic in Alsace.

For even more freedom, your arrival or departure dates can be adjusted upon request when you make your reservation.