Between history and legend

This 8th stage will take you to the emblematic summit of the Donon!

From Urmatt, take a path through the forest to the Porte de Pierre (Stone Gate). This strange natural monument is actually a rock shaped by erosion. In the heart of the forest, the pink sandstone monolith impresses with its size: 7 metres wide and 5 metres high!

A little further on, the Rocher de Mutzig offers a magnificent view. At an altitude of 1008 metres, take a moment to admire the superb panorama over the Bruche valley and the Champ du Feu massif.

You then begin a descent through the forest before climbing again to reach the mythical summit of the Donon at 1,009 metres. The site has been known since prehistoric times, when it was given a sacred status that has remained with it ever since. In fact, you'll be able to see a number of archaeological remains dating from the Neolithic and Gallo-Roman periods. But make no mistake, the ancient temple on the summit actually dates back to Napoleon III!
Along with the Rocher de Mutzig, the Donon is the highest peak in the northern Vosges . Soak up this unique place, steeped in legend and magic, and above all enjoy the incomparable 360° view over Alsace and Lorraine.

The route then descends into the heart of the Bruche valley, where you can spend the night near Schirmeck.