Imagine a place where time seems to stand still, where every street corner breathes history and tradition. Welcome to Hunspach, this small Alsatian village of 650 inhabitants, which conquered the French in 2020 by winning the title of Favorite village of the French. Nestled in the north of Alsace, Hunspach is a true pearl, preserved in a green and authentic setting. Why has this village captivated so many hearts? Explore this timeless jewel with me.
An Alsatian village of singular beauty, where white is king
Contrary to the traditional image of Alsatian villages with colorful houses, Hunspach is distinguished by its immaculate architectural uniformity. Here, it is the white half-timbered houses, built in the 18th and 19th centuries, which dominate the landscape. These buildings, with their characteristic “broken nose” roofs, create a unique visual spectacle, reinforcing the atmosphere of serenity that reigns in the village.
The construction of these houses is inspired by local techniques: clay, wood and stones from neighboring forests and quarries. This cohesion in materials and colors gives Hunspach a harmonious charm, which stands out from other Alsatian villages.
Ancestral traditions and intriguing details
As you walk through the streets of Hunspach, you won’t be able to miss a detail that piques your curiosity: windows with curved glass. This feature, far from being purely aesthetic, had a specific objective: to allow residents to see outside without being seen. This ingenuity, reflecting an era when privacy was particularly precious, adds a mysterious note to your walks. Behind these windows perhaps hide amused looks, watching visitors discover this unusual village.
The fortified Protestant church: a stone sentinel
The heart of Hunspach beats around its Protestant church, an impressive building which dominates the village. Its pink sandstone bell tower and its fortified enclosure are all testimonies to the region’s tumultuous past. The hexagonal enclosure, flanked by bastions, evokes a time when invasions were a constant threat. This fortress church today constitutes one of the most beautiful defensive structures preserved in Alsace.
By visiting this place, you will not only be able to admire the architecture, but also enjoy a breathtaking view of the village rooftops and the surrounding landscapes. It’s a real dive into historywhere we can imagine the daily life of the inhabitants of the time.
Fort Schoenenbourg: witness to the Second World War
Just a few kilometers from Hunspach, the fortress de Schoenenbourga vestige of the Maginot Line, offers a striking insight into French military history. This fort, one of the largest visitable works in Alsace, allows you to explore 3 kilometers of underground galleries having sheltered up to 600 men during the Second World War.
This visit will give you a precise idea of the defensive strategy put in place at the time, but also of the austere living conditions of the soldiers who were stationed there. This is an essential step for history buffs or those who wish to better understand the key role of the region during the conflict.
Alsatian folklore at the heart of village life
Hunspach is not a village frozen in time. On the contrary, local traditions are alive and wellnotably during the folklore festival which takes place every year in spring. During this event, the inhabitants wear their traditional costumes and liven up the village with Alsatian dances and music. A moment of conviviality which immerses visitors in a Authentic Alsacefar from clichés.
The end of year celebrations are not left out, with the Old-fashioned Christmas marketwhere two emblematic Alsatian figures – Hans Trapp and Christkindel – make their appearance. The market is a perfect opportunity to taste local specialties and let yourself be enveloped in the magical atmosphere of the village.
An exceptional natural setting at the gateway to the Northern Vosges
Hunspach also benefits from a privileged natural environment. The village is located at the eastern end of the Vosges du Nord Regional Natural Park.an area recognized by UNESCO for the richness of its biodiversity. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy marked hiking trails, passing through dense forests, sandstone rock formations, and even castle ruins.
Another essential stop for nature lovers is the Butterfly Gardena few kilometers away. This tropical garden is home to hundreds of exotic butterflies, flying freely in an enchanting setting. It’s an immersive experience that fascinates young and old alike.
A culinary journey to the heart of Alsatian gastronomy
No trip to Alsace would be complete without a detour to its gourmet restaurants. In Hunspach, the Restaurant au Cerf is the essential address to discover local specialties. Let yourself be tempted by a sauerkraut generous, a baeckeoffe tasty or even a tarte flambée crispy. Each dish is a tribute to the richness of the Alsatian terroir.
Don’t forget to taste the region’s iconic wines, such as Riesling or the Gewurztraminerproduced in neighboring vineyards. If you are a beer lover, Alsace is full of craft breweries which offer beers with inimitable flavors.
Where to stay to extend the experience?
For total immersion, what could be better than spending the night in an authentic Alsatian house? There Ungerer Houselocated in the heart of the village, offers guest rooms in a traditional building. You can enjoy a peaceful stay, surrounded by the unique architecture of Hunspach.
If you’re looking for more options, the nearby town of Wissembourgjust a 15-minute drive away, offers a diverse range of accommodation. Whether you choose to stay in the village or venture into the surrounding area, one thing is certain: your stay in this region of Alsace will be unforgettable.
What to do around Hunspach? Explore the treasures of Northern Alsace
Hunspach is the ideal starting point to discover the other wonders of Northern Alsace. The fortified town of Wissembourgwith its thousand-year-old abbey church, deserves an in-depth visit. Nearby, the pottery villages Betschdorf and Soufflenheim are famous for their traditional ceramics.
For a relaxing break, the spa resort of Niederbronn-les-Bains offers unparalleled moments of well-being in an exceptional natural setting. And for nature lovers, the forest of Haguenauthe largest undivided forest in France, is a haven of peace ideal for long walks.
Hunspach, this Alsatian village of 650 inhabitants, is a jewel which has seduced you with its authenticity and historical richness. Whether you are attracted by its half-timbered houses, its living traditions, or its preserved natural setting, this village will offer you a unique and unforgettable experience.
