Cycling or walking in the Haguenau Forest
Many people don't know it, but we are lucky to have in Alsace a forest labeled as an exceptional forest: the Haguenau Forest. This label is awarded to the emblematic forests of France. What if we went to discover it?
My summary
I liked
- Beautiful forest of Haguenau
- Bicycle and walking routes for all audiences
- Varied animation program
I liked a little less
- Nothing!
Where to walk in Haguenau? The Undivided Forest
You may have already noticed if you have heard of the Haguenau Forest, its exact name is Haguenau Undivided Forest. A term that intrigued me: in fact, it is one of the rare forests to be owned by both the State and a municipality, Haguenau in this case.
When we think of the forest in Alsace, we usually think first of the Vosges forest. Rightly so, but we must not forget that we also have a huge forest in the Alsace plain, and that it is also a magnificent playground to enjoy nature!
The Forêt de Haguenau covers more than 13,400 hectares, making it one of the largest lowland forests in France! It is also the only French representative of the mixed forests of the mid-European type, characterized by a mixture of native oaks and pines, and boasts a number of remarkable trees. In addition, it also plays an important role as an ecological corridor between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine forests.
The forest also possesses clay quarries, which are at the origin of the development of the traditional pottery activity in the neighboring villages of Soufflenheim and Betschdorf.
Where is the Haguenau forest located?
Located in the northern Alsace region of Bas-Rhin, the Forêt de Haguenau stretches north of the town of Haguenau, 30 km from west to east and 10 km from north to southeast. This convenient location makes it a favorite place of relaxation for locals and visitors alike, as the forest is easily accessible from the city.
Various hiking and biking routes
The Haguenau Forest is the place to be for those who love sports in the forest! Various routes have been created and one can follow hiking, Nordic walking, mountain biking or cycling trails without fear of getting lost. An accessible route for people with reduced mobility (PRM) has also been created.
There are various options available depending on the desired length of your walk and which parts of the forest you’d like to explore. You can view all the trails on the “Walk in the Haguenau Forest” map, which lists the various routes and points of interest. Be sure to bring the map or download the GPX tracks, as the trails are not marked on-site.
By bike, the routes are easy because they pass on asphalt roads, in the heart of the forest or on its edge. There is no difference in altitude and the area is therefore perfectly adapted to families, especially since most of the time we are on safe routes.
Bicycle tour ” Discovering the exceptional forest “.
I tried out the “Discovering the Exceptional Forest” bike loop, a 37-km route (click here for the itinerary) that takes you on a beautiful ride through this rich forest. Starting at the Haguenau train station (very convenient for those coming directly by train), you quickly leave the city behind and enter the forest. A complete change of scenery in just a few minutes!
The route is always on asphalt roads (which means it’s suitable for all types of bike) and allows you to discover several points of interest in the forest, such as the pretty Hundshof washhouse, the Gründel ponds, thebird observatory and the Gros Chêne (a well-known forest spot for its inn, playgrounds and picnic tables). Don’t hesitate to stop in Betschdorf (the route passes by there) to go to visit the potters.
It is very pleasant to drive in this immense forest, even more if it is hot because we are enormously in the shade of the trees. We really fill up with greenery, it feels good!
To eat along the way, you can take the picnic option (always nice in the forest I think!) but also stop at the restaurant of La Poste in Schwabwiller (which I did not test but which was recommended to me) or at the Auberge du Gros Chêne.
Where to rent a bike?
TheRitmo agency offers bike rental at the station at very attractive rates, which is very practical when you arrive by train.
I advise you to choose a classic bike and not an electric one, first because the itinerary is easy and there is really no need for an electric bike if you don’t suffer from any particular health problem, but also because their electric bikes are old and not necessarily pleasant… Especially if the assistance breaks down during the trip (I know from experience 😉 )
A variety of activities for all audiences
If you’d like to explore the Haguenau Forest, be sure to check out the activities calendar as well. Events called “Hidden Treasures of the Forest” are held regularly, featuring a truly interesting program thanks to the close collaboration between the city and the ONF.
There’s a great mix ofactivities to discover the local flora and fauna, learn how the forest is managed sustainably, discover the job of a woodcutter, take part in walks on various themes (war relics, Soufflenheim clay used by famous Alsatian potters, etc.) as well as sylvotherapy or storytelling sessions… There’s something to suit everyone’s interests!
Practical information
Access
By car
Haguenau is located in:
- 35km from Strasbourg (about 30 minutes)
- 105km from Colmar (about 1h20)
- 145km from Mulhouse (about 1h40)
By public transport
It is easy to come to Haguenau by train. Plan your route with Fluo.