Northern Vosges Natural Park

Why should I visit?
Surrounded by admired regions such as Alsace, Moselle/Lorraine and the Palatinate in Germany, France's timeless wonder, the Northern Vosges Regional Natural Park, has begun to carve its own niche in time. Not only is the Northern Vosges rich in local tradition, it is also a region defined by complex landscapes. Sandstone, hot springs and many water passages shape the park into an unparalleled oddity. A detour into the region is a stop worth making.

What can you do here?
With an inspired century-old association like The Club Vosgien running the show, the park maintains a superior maze of over 1,650 km of hiking paths. In addition to this, there are over 900 km dedicated to cycling, mountain biking and horseback riding. The region is also home to many of the finest glass and crystal makers in the world. Activities and workshops dedicated to this art are offered to visitors. The French are also known for their world-class cuisine and the Northern Vosges does not disappoint. Fine restaurants specializing in the region's unsurpassed tastes are plentiful. Culinary classes taught by renowned local chefs are available for foodies. For museum goers, the park is home to many, such as the popular Clog Museum and the Heritage Centre. The Miesenthal glass site is also nearby as well as a covered market for modern plastic arts and music.

What makes the Northern Vosges Regional Natural Park Special?
In addition to the region's unrivaled local charm, the Northern Vosges is a historical mecca. Word is getting around and tourists from neighboring countries have been flocking to see such notable landmarks as the Fleckenstein Chateau and Wasenbourg Chateau. Since the region is rich in sand-stone and crystal making is a regional art, the ruins leave an everlasting trace in time. With less than 90,000 local inhabitants living in such a broad area, the park retains its quaintness. The French account for nearly 80% of the tourism industry, with many of them venturing less than 2 hours from their homes.