3-day microadventure itinerary in Alsace on the GR 53

Embark on a 3-day micro-adventure on the GR 53, the first French GR to be awarded the Leading Quality Trail label! Soak up the magnificent landscapes and exceptional heritage of Alsace! Traces Vosges du Nord has thought of everything to offer you a comfortable itinerary, without car or luggage.

Start your journey in Saverne, the gateway to Alsace, on the way to Niederbronn-les-Bains. Along the way, explore the fascinating troglodytic houses of Graufthal and the ruins of the abbey. Cross the Rocher du Corbeau (Raven Rock) and the Jardin des Poètes (Poets’ Garden) to reach La Petite Pierre, a medieval town with its castle, home to the Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges du Nord (Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park). The distance covered is 21 km, i.e. a walking time of around 6 hours, excluding breaks, with a difference in altitude of +689 m and -541 m.

The second day will be more leisurely, ideal for relaxing while discovering the diversity of forest species in the Vosges du Nord. Enjoy a « landscape window » above La Petite Pierre and admire the huge sandstone rock, the Ochenstall. Don’t forget to visit Lichtenberg Castle before it closes for a 360° view of the Transfrontier Biosphere Reserve. The walk covers a distance of 17 km, or around 4h30, with a difference in altitude of +342 m and -335 m.

On your final day, take a rest in the charming hamlet of Muhlthal before setting off to explore the ruins of the Grand Arnsbourg and Wasenbourg castle. After a stop at the lookout hut, end your adventure in the spa town of Niederbronn-les-Bains. The walk covers a distance of 20 km or 6 hours, with a difference in altitude of +584 m and -743 m.

This microadventure includes 2 nights’ accommodation in B&Bs or 2- or 3-star hotels, based on 2 people per room. It includes 2 half-board dinners (drinks not included) and 2 breakfasts. The Traces team will take care of transporting heavy luggage, up to a maximum of 13 kg per person, between stages. Your luggage will be hand-delivered to you at the station on the last day.

Detailed travel documents, including vouchers, daily roadbook and GPX track of the itinerary for your hiking application will be provided. You’ll have access to the Lichtenberg Castle and Maison des Rochers sites in Graufthal on Day 1, as well as a Traces hotline available 7 days a week. Free parking is available for your convenience.

Please bring comfortable, seasonally-appropriate clothing for trekking, as well as a good pair of shoes and walking poles. A more detailed list will be provided at the time of booking. The program may be modified according to trail conditions, availability of accommodation or other unforeseen circumstances, such as closed sections, nesting or periods of drought.

Let yourself be tempted by this unique hiking experience on the GR 53 and come and explore the beauty of the Vosges du Nord. Book now!