Forged by the history of Alsace, the city of Bischwiller is the showcase of its culture, heritage and values. Alsatian authenticity is embodied in its streets, testimony of its princely and industrial past. This city, bordered by nature thanks to the Ried which surrounds it, also offers many bucolic paths.
The path of the poets
A poetic footpath crosses Bischwiller. Called "Dichterwaj" in Alsatian or " Poets' Path ", it promotes heritage and dialect poetry.
This route offers a unique way to discover the city, taking a poetic look at themes as varied as heritage, nature, hope, and memory. The 9-km route is divided into three discovery circuits . It begins at the Town Hall square and crosses the city center, passes through Hanhoffen, and ventures into the Ried region . Along the way, twenty-seven display stands feature poems in their original dialect, alongside French translations.
This seventh poets' trail in the region allows visitors to discover not only local poets, but also poets from all corners of Alsace , each with their own unique voice. How can we not rejoice that Bischwiller, a town steeped in history, industry, and formerly a garrison town, has been recognized as a city of poetry?
Trails between plain and forest
Born from a close and effective collaboration between the City and the Vosges Club of Haguenau-Lembach, four hiking trails in Bischwiller have been marked. The paths will lead you to the edge of the forest, into the Ried plain, or even to the heart of the city center, along the Rothbaechel stream (green corridor).
The Ried trail (green ring markings)
The term Ried , whose Alemannic root "Rieth" means reed, is characterized by wet meadows resulting from ancient human clearing. The abundant water found there gives rise to numerous streams.
Located on the outskirts of the town, the first " Ried Trail ," a 6,1 km (approximately 1.5 hour) walk starting from St. Nicholas Church in Hanhoffen, will lead you into the Ried plain . There, you will discover the rich flora and fauna of this wetland area. It is not uncommon to encounter common cranes, wild geese, or even herds of deer along the trail . With the arrival of winter, the trail offers a panoramic view of the town and its architectural heritage.
The Bollachgraben trail (blue disc markings)
The second route, called the " Bollachgraben Trail ," offers a 5,5 km walk (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes). The starting point is at the Bischwiller SNCF train station. It leads you to a pleasantly landscaped market garden where the crops change with the seasons. The landscape then opens up to lush countryside before reaching the edge of the Gries forest. A small animal park enhances the route and will delight children.
The Green Trame and Hasensprung trail (red disc markings)
The third route, called the " Greenway and Hasensprung Trail ," is 8 km long (approximately 2 hours) and starts at the Château Park. You'll walk alongside the Moder River , and the trail will lead you along the beautiful greenway and into the Hasensprung district . Both scenic and peaceful, the greenway is truly the green lung of our city, located right in the heart of the city. Children can take a break at the dedicated playgrounds.
A stop on the suspended footbridge over the body of water (called "jute pond") is a must ! In spring, let yourself be surprised by the cloud of water lilies and the graceful dance of the amorous swans.
The gravel pit trail (blue ring markings)
Finally, the last route, the " Gravel Pit Trail ," is 7,5 km long (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes) and starts at Place des Tilleuls in Hanhoffen, heading towards the Ried . It is marked with a blue ring. Directional signs along the route indicate the direction, the different stages, and the estimated walking time in hours. Circular signs with green borders on the trail inform hikers of their location and altitude. Walking in this area offers a relaxing experience and the opportunity to discover the surrounding flora and fauna in every season.
As soon as autumn arrives, the magic happens and the wooded areas are illuminated with subtle shades of red, yellow, and green. The surprise is complete when discovering these remarkable landscapes and natural treasures . The various bodies of water provide a giant watering hole for the birds.
Other hiking trails await you ...
The Claude Vigée literary trail , the town's walking tour , and the fun walk are other options for exploring Bischwiller. These trails are available at the Haguenau Tourist Office upon request or at Bischwiller Town Hall.
Good walk !
Tourist Office of Pays de Hagenau
The team of the tourist office is at your disposal to help you prepare your stay in the Land of Haguenau or to suggest activities during your holidays. Come and discover an authentic territory with its crafts, its forests, its Alsatian traditions ...