The picturesque charm of Alsace

After crossing the thick forests of the Vosges, this 5th stage takes you to Saverne, a peaceful Alsatian town with a picture-postcard feel.

As you leave La Petite Pierre, stop off at the Jardin des Poètes for a last look at the old town.

After a 7km walk, you can make an unusual discovery at Graufthal. Three cave dwellings have been built into the sandstone cliffs. The rock serves as the floor, wall and ceiling of these curious houses. Only the blue façade has been painted by man. Inhabited until the late 1950s, the "rock houses" have now been restored and fitted out. Visiting them will give you an insight into the living conditions of their former occupants. Nearby, don't miss the remains of Saint-Gangolphe Abbey.

Your walk continues through the forests of the Vosges. Below the Col de Saverne, discover the Rocher du Saut du Prince Charles and its legend. It is said that a Lorraine prince named Charles jumped from the top of the rock on horseback to escape his enemies. The animal's hoofprints are said to have left their mark in the rock. Can you find them?

After a final effort, you arrive in Saverne, where you will spend the night. Take time to wander around this pretty Alsatian town. Look up to admire the typical carved half-timbered houses, such as the Maison Katz. Your wanderings will take you to the marina, from where a magnificent view of the Château des Rohan awaits you. This classical building with its immense pink sandstone façade was once known as "Alsace's Little Versailles". If you've got your sea legs, take the time to cruise the Marne-Rhine canal, which links Strasbourg in the east to Vitry-le-François in the Marne in the west. And to round off the day, sit down on a terrace at the foot of the Unicorn, the city's emblem, to sample some Alsatian specialities!