Westhalten(France) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For first-time visitors, the Old Town Quarter is the ideal area to stay in Westhalten. This historic district offers charming cobbled streets, well-preserved 18th-century architecture, and easy access to local cafés, bakeries, and the Church of Sainte-Marie. Staying here allows you to immerse in authentic Grand Est region culture while being within walking distance of the Westhalten Market Square and the scenic River Bruche promenade.

Another excellent option is the Parkside District, located just a 10-minute walk from the town center. This quieter, green zone features boutique hotels like Le Jardin des Oliviers, set in restored farmhouses with private gardens and panoramic views of the surrounding hills. It’s perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and proximity to nature trails leading into the Vosges Mountains. Both areas provide excellent bases for exploring nearby attractions such as Colmar and the Alsace Wine Route.

In Westhalten, be sure to try Choucroute Garnie, a signature dish of the Alsace region featuring sauerkraut slow-cooked with smoked pork, sausages, and spices, served with mustard-based sauces. Another must-try is Tarte Flambée, a thin-crust pizza-like dish topped with cream, onions, and bacon—best enjoyed at La Table de l'Épicier, a family-run bistro known for its authentic recipes.

Don’t miss Bretzel (pretzels) made with locally milled rye flour, often served warm with butter or honey. For dessert, sample Kugelhopf, a sweet, spiced cake baked in a special ring mold, traditionally enjoyed during festivals. These dishes reflect the region’s German-French culinary fusion, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange along the Rhine River. Many local restaurants offer guided tasting tours that include wine pairings with regional Riesling or Pinot Gris.

Yes, near Westhalten, families can enjoy several outdoor activities. The Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges du Nord offers safe, well-marked trails like the Sentier des Fées (Fairies’ Trail), perfect for children, with storytelling stations and wildlife observation points. The Étang des Béliers pond is ideal for birdwatching and picnicking, while the Nature Discovery Center hosts interactive workshops on local flora and fauna.

Another great option is Les Jardins de la Source, a blend of formal French gardens and playful family zones. Kids love the Maze of Wonders, water fountains, and the weekly Farm Animal Days, where they can feed goats and rabbits. For adventure, the Bruche Gorge offers guided rafting trips suitable for ages 6+, and hiking to Montagne de Kientzheim provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Grand Est region. All sites feature family amenities like stroller rentals, picnic areas, and shaded rest zones.

The easiest way to reach Colmar from Westhalten is by taking the TER Grand Est Line 23 regional train, which runs every 30 minutes and takes just 35 minutes. The train departs from Westhalten Train Station, located just a 5-minute walk from the town center, and arrives at Colmar Gare Centrale, directly adjacent to the historic Old Town.

For a more flexible journey, rent an e-bike through Velovia, cycling along the scenic Valley of the Bruche River. The 28-kilometer route passes through vineyards and quiet villages, with rest stops and bilingual signage. Alternatively, book a private transfer via Alsace Transfers, offering luxury vehicles with multilingual drivers—ideal for families or travelers with mobility needs. Upon arrival, don’t miss visiting the Unterlinden Museum and the picturesque Little Venice canal district, both showcasing the region’s rich medieval heritage.

In winter, Westhalten hosts two major events: the Marché de Noël de Westhalten, held each December in Place de la Mairie, featuring over 50 stalls selling handmade crafts, mulled wine, and almond biscuits under festive lights and Christmas trees. Daily performances of Alsatian folk music and a Santa Claus parade delight families.

Also notable is the Festival des Lumières (Festival of Lights), which transforms historic buildings like the Westhalten Church and old town hall into dynamic light projections telling local legends and agricultural stories. Special seasonal drinks—like spiced mulled wine with cinnamon and cloves—are served alongside hot potato cakes and apple pie. Each evening at 7 PM, guided Night Walks Through the Lights led by local historians offer insights into architectural heritage and festival symbolism, making it a magical way to experience Alsatian winter traditions.

Must-see historical buildings in Westhalten include the Westhalten Church (built 1745), a striking example of Baroque architecture with ornate spires, stained-glass windows, and a 19th-century bell tower still used for Sunday services. Inside, visitors can view 18th-century altarpieces and original religious artifacts.

The Ancien Hôtel de Ville (Old Town Hall), once a judge’s residence in the 18th century, now houses the Westhalten Heritage Museum, displaying traditional farming tools, wedding attire, and wartime memorabilia. Nearby, the Maison du Bourgmestre (Mayor’s Mansion) is a well-preserved 19th-century French residence with intricate wood carvings and arched windows, currently hosting rotating art exhibitions.

Guided tours like the Architecture & Memory Walk, led by local historians, offer rare access to hidden attics and cellars, providing deep insights into the town’s architectural evolution and cultural legacy across centuries.