Eichhoffen

Before a tasting break (with moderation!) At a local producer, a discovery of the heritage of the small town must include the beautiful chapel Saint-Jean-Baptiste, a few steps from the town hall. Its origins date back to the 11th century and it was then consecrated by Pope Leo IX from the powerful family of the Counts of Eguisheim. The building was then dedicated to the Virgin and Saint John. Rebuilt in 1569, the chapel has preserved from this period twinned ogive windows and a door. Classified since 1936, private property, the building adjoins a court of the XIVth century where there is still a vaulted cellar whose pillars come from a former priory.

Dependent until the mid-nineteenth century the neighboring parish of Andlau, Eichhoffen then has a clean church dedicated to Saint Andrew, built according to the plans of a Strasbourg architect. It houses a remarkable golden and silver statue of the Madonna and Child dating from the eighteenth century.

After walking through the charming village streets lined with half-timbered houses, you can go north of the town on the banks of the county road 35, along the Andlau, to observe the old communal laundry. Beautifully crafted, with a four-sided roof, it includes stairs that once allowed the washerwomen to adapt to the level of the river, also tributary of the Rhine.

This element of heritage and of course vineyards that stretch on the slopes can be included on a hiking trail also including the banks of the Andlau. Routes specifically dedicated to wine tourism are also possible. Maps and information on +33 3 88 95 64 13.

For fishing enthusiasts who would like to take advantage of the river, learn about suitable sites and regulations at +33 3 88 10 52 20.

In July and August, the Clair de Nuit festival, which organizes rock, French chanson, jazz or blues concerts, is staged in the Pays de Barr townships, of which Eichhoffen is one.