Best attractions and places to see around Buchsweiler, also known as Bouxwiller, is a historic town in Alsace, France, notable for its past as the capital of the County of Hanau-Lichtenberg. The town features a well-preserved historic center with significant architectural heritage, including landmarks around the Place du Château and various historical houses. Situated at an altitude ranging from 177 to 322 meters, the commune is drained by several streams, offering a blend of cultural and natural exploration.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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Since 1926, the monastery church has borne the papal title of honor of a Basilica minor. Originally built in the late Gothic style, the interior was redesigned several times and furnished and painted in the Neo-Baroque style between 1900 and 1934. The mighty high altar at the end of the choir, a gift from the French King Louis XIV, was consecrated in 1680.
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Unlike the Blochmont, which crosses the same ridge just a little further on, this road from Wolschwiller is considerably more challenging. After a gentle start, the route climbs relatively steeply through the narrow valley. A stream flows to the right, while beautiful rock formations are often visible to the left. At the top, near the unmistakable 'Lange Matte' (Long Meadow), the terrain levels out again, and soon you're at the top.
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Great place to eat good Munster cheese and drink a glass of Pinot Noir. Very friendly.
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The Mariastein monastery is considered the second most important pilgrimage site in Switzerland after Einsiedeln. Its origins go back to a legend in which a little boy fell over a high rock face and was then found unharmed by his mother. After he told his father that he had been caught by a woman, the father was sure that it was the Virgin Mary. He had a chapel built in a cave in her honor. The monastery complex can be visited daily, but services are held regularly. More information can be found here: https://www.kloster-mariastein.ch/informationen/agenda/
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The Blochmont is the perfect Sunday ride pass for a tour through Alsace. Approaching from the north, you'll almost feel like you're in the Tour de France, as the gentle gradient means you can climb really fast. Enjoyable ascents alternate between forest and sunny sections. Reaching the farm at the top means you've completed the climb, though it's certainly not a job; this climb is pure enjoyment.
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The Mariastein monastery is, alongside the Einsiedeln monastery, the second most visited pilgrimage site in Switzerland. Thousands of believers and pilgrims from all over the world make a pilgrimage to Mariastein every year to ask Mary for help or to receive her blessing. Of course, the impressive monastery complex and the surrounding lands attract numerous tourists and hikers every year, who bring home a wealth of memories with a suitcase or backpack, but also a full photo or cell phone memory card. A detour to the gift chapel hidden in a rock grotto and the magnificent basilica is particularly recommended. If you visit Mariastein, you should also, if possible, pay a visit to the nearby castle ruins of Château Landskron in Alsace, just a few minutes' walk away.
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Landskron is located in Alsace, on French soil. It is one of the most important and impressive castle ruins in the area. Entry is free. There are numerous barbecue areas in and around the castle that are waiting to be lit. From the top of the tower, you get a unique view of Alsace, the Vosges, the Black Forest and the Rhine plain. Anyone who visits Château du Landskron should definitely pay a visit to the Mariastein monastery in "nearby" Switzerland.
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wonderful place which invites you to linger.
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Bouxwiller, with its rich history, offers numerous historical sites. You can explore the area around the Place du Château, which includes the former administrative buildings of the Château de Bouxwiller like the Halle aux Blés (Grain Hall) and the Chancellerie (now the Town Hall). The Ecuries (Stables) also remain. Wander through Rue de la Chancellerie and Grand'Rue to see historical houses such as La Laube and the Maison Pflüger ou à la sirène. Don't miss the Lutheran Parish Church and sections of the old Remparts. The Rue du Sable also features a house dating back to 1595.
While Bouxwiller's immediate center is historic, the surrounding area offers natural beauty. The commune is drained by several streams like the Wappachgraben and Embsbaechel. For a unique natural experience, the Ochsenstall Rock is known for its rugged terrain, and the Ochsenstall Cave provides a spot for exploration and scenic views.
The region around Bouxwiller is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running, mountain biking, and road cycling routes. For running, explore options like the 'Rossberg Observation Tower – Ferrette Castle and Pond loop' or shorter loops from Ferrette. Mountain bikers can enjoy routes such as 'View of Ferrette – Oratory of Les Ébourbettes loop' or 'Blochmont Pass – Smooth Gravel Descent loop'. Road cyclists have choices like 'The ascent of Ferrette' or 'The Sundgau ponds loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the respective guides: Running Trails around Buchsweiler, MTB Trails around Buchsweiler, and Road Cycling Routes around Buchsweiler.
Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic views and historical significance of the attractions. For instance, Landskron Castle is praised as one of the most beautiful castle ruins, offering panoramic views up to the Vosges mountains. The Blochmont Pass is enjoyed for its gentle 3% grade, making it a pleasant ascent or descent through scenic forest sections. The Saint-Brice Chapel is a popular stop for cyclists, known for its excellent food and friendly service at the associated restaurant.
Yes, the region features significant religious sites. The Lutheran Parish Church is a prominent feature within Bouxwiller itself. Further afield, the Mariastein Monastery is a highly regarded pilgrimage site, known for its chapel dedicated to Mary located in a grotto, beautiful Gothic architecture, and works of art. The Saint-Brice Chapel also offers a historical and spiritual stop, often combined with a meal at its restaurant.
Absolutely. The most popular castle ruin in the area is Landskron Castle, considered one of the most beautiful, offering extensive views. Within Bouxwiller, you can also explore sections of the old Remparts that once fortified the town, providing a glimpse into its defensive past.
Bouxwiller's architecture reflects its historical significance as a former capital. You'll find well-preserved buildings from various periods, particularly around the central squares and winding streets. Notable examples include the 17th-century Chancellerie and Ecuries, as well as historical houses like La Laube and the Maison Pflüger ou à la sirène with its distinctive sculpted oriel window. The town's buildings showcase a blend of styles from its past as the County of Hanau-Lichtenberg.
Yes, the Blochmont Pass is a notable mountain pass in the vicinity, offering a pleasant experience for cyclists and hikers due to its moderate slope and scenic forest sections. While not a dramatic mountain pass, it provides a key route through the foothills. Additionally, the tower at Landskron Castle offers panoramic views extending up to the Vosges mountains.
The Mariastein Monastery is categorized as family-friendly, offering a cultural and historical experience that can be enjoyed by all ages, including exploring its grotto. The surrounding natural areas and easier walking routes mentioned in the nearby guides also provide opportunities for family outings.
The best way to experience Bouxwiller's historical center is by walking. Take your time to stroll through the Place du Château, Rue de la Chancellerie, Grand'Rue, and Rue du Sable. This allows you to appreciate the distinctive architecture, historical houses, and remnants of the old ramparts at your own pace. Many of the town's significant buildings are classified as historical monuments, making the entire center a cultural site.
Look for unique architectural details on the historical houses along Rue de la Chancellerie and Grand'Rue. Specifically, the Maison Pflüger ou à la sirène is known for its distinctive features, and another house boasts a sculpted oriel window. The Place du Marché aux Grains also features the Maison des Ventes and the Maison aux piliers, showcasing varied historical building styles.


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