Discover your perfect stay in Metzeral.
Discover the most iconic attractions in Metzeral
Find the perfect place to stay in Metzeral



Questions You Might Need to Know About Traveling to Metzeral
The best area to stay in Mertzwiller is the historic village center, where you’ll find charming half-timbered houses and proximity to Saint-Maximin Church, a 12th-century landmark. Staying here offers easy access to local markets, artisan workshops, and traditional Alsatian restaurants serving regional specialties like choucroute and tarte flambée.
For an authentic experience, consider Hôtel Le Relais de l'Orme, a boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the village with elegant rooms featuring local artwork and warm wood finishes. It’s also close to the Alsace Wine Route, perfect for wine lovers seeking guided tastings and scenic drives.
Alternatively, Le Moulin de la Vigne, a restored 19th-century mill turned boutique guesthouse, offers private gardens and river views—ideal for those seeking tranquility and unique architecture. Both options provide excellent bases for exploring the rich Alsatian culture and seasonal festivals.
Mertzwiller stands out as a heritage tourism gem due to its well-preserved Alsatian architectural style, including half-timbered houses, stone foundations, and intricate façade carvings dating back to the 16th century. The village centers around the Saint-Maximin Church, a Romanesque-Gothic structure with rare medieval frescoes and a bell tower offering panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards.
Visitors can explore the Village Heritage Trail, which guides you through centuries-old farmhouses, old mills, and traditional craft studios. Local artisans still practice age-old techniques such as pottery, weaving, and clockmaking—many of which are showcased during the annual Fête des Métiers Artisanaux.
Additionally, the village lies along the Alsace Wine Route, making it a gateway to renowned wineries like Domaine Zind-Humbrecht. This blend of living history, craftsmanship, and rural charm creates a deeply immersive experience that few other villages in France can match.
To experience authentic Alsatian cuisine in Mertzwiller, head to Café du Village, a family-run tavern housed in a 17th-century half-timbered building. Their signature dishes include choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with smoked sausages and pork), tarte flambée (a thin, crispy pizza-like tart with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon), and freshly baked bretzel with local mustard.
Another must-visit is La Table de L’Orme, located within Hôtel Le Relais de l'Orme, where seasonal menus highlight ingredients from nearby farms and vineyards. They offer wine pairing sessions with selections from the Alsace Wine Route, enhancing the dining experience.
For a deeper cultural immersion, join a farm-to-table cooking workshop hosted by local chefs at Le Moulin de la Vigne, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional recipes using herbs grown on-site. These culinary experiences offer more than just meals—they’re windows into Alsatian heritage and hospitality.
Yes, several family-friendly hotels in Mertzwiller offer excellent outdoor activities. Hôtel Le Relais de l'Orme features a secure play area, a garden with climbing structures, and free access to nearby hiking trails along the Rhine tributaries. They also organize weekend family events like nature scavenger hunts and storytelling sessions under the stars.
Le Moulin de la Vigne, a restored mill guesthouse, provides spacious cabins with private gardens, a sandbox, and a small petting zoo with goats and rabbits—perfect for young children. Guests can rent bicycles for free and explore the scenic Alsace Wine Route at their own pace.
The village itself is surrounded by forest paths and meadows ideal for picnics and wildlife spotting. Local guides also offer family-friendly nature walks and seasonal activities such as grape harvest tours and autumn leaf-collecting games. With low traffic and a welcoming community, Mertzwiller is a safe, engaging environment for families seeking quality time outdoors.
Yes, most hotels in Mertzwiller provide multilingual support, primarily in English and French. Staff at Hôtel Le Relais de l'Orme and Le Moulin de la Vigne are trained in English and can assist with check-in, restaurant recommendations, and tour bookings.
Some boutique accommodations even offer Chinese-language signage on room keys and welcome kits, with websites and HopeGoo platforms available in Chinese. For special requests—such as wheelchair-accessible rooms or child-friendly amenities—guests are encouraged to contact hotels via email at least 48 hours in advance; responses are typically provided within 24 hours.
Additionally, local cafés, tourist information desks, and signage throughout the village are bilingual, and many elderly residents speak basic English. This ensures a seamless, barrier-free travel experience even for non-French speakers.
Metzeral, a picturesque town in France's Haut-Rhin department, lies along the Alsace Wine Route famed for its medieval architecture and vineyard landscapes. Its half-timbered houses and tranquil rural ambiance offer an authentic Alsatian experience.
Must-see spots include the Gothic Saint-Martin Church and the well-preserved 16th-century town hall. Hike through vineyard trails for Vosges Mountains views, or visit Petite Suisse Alsacienne for winter skiing.
Culinary highlights feature local Riesling wine paired with Choucroute (sauerkraut with meats) or Tarte Flambée (Alsatian flatbread). Don't miss Kougelhopf cake. Saturday markets offer fresh produce.
Transport tips: Take TER trains from Colmar (30min) or drive via D1bis road (20min). The compact town center is walkable; rent bikes for vineyard tours. Mountain roads may require snow tires in winter.
Best visiting period is May-October for lush vineyards and mild weather. September harvest festivals are lively (book early). Winter (Dec-Feb) suits skiers but some attractions close.
Practical info: 4G coverage throughout town. Most restaurants accept cards. Pharmacies display green crosses; dial 112 for emergencies. English is understood but menus are often French. Tap water is drinkable. Luggage lockers available at train station (last train departs ~21:00).