Attractions and Places To See around Ottrott - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ottrott include a rich blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. This village, nestled in the Bas-Rhin department of France, is known for its medieval castles and proximity to the Vosges Mountains. Visitors can explore ancient religious sites, scenic hiking trails, and vineyards. The area offers diverse outdoor activities and notable landmarks for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Ottrott
- The most popular attractions is Mount Sainte-Odile, a religious site and viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Alsace Plain and the Vosges Mountains. This significant site features a monastery and is a historical and cultural highlight.
- Another must-see spot is Andlau Castle, an atypical fortification with two towers standing on the heights of the Alsatian vineyard. This picturesque ruin provides a magnificent view over Barr and is a popular hiking objective.
- Visitors also love Rathsamhausen Castle, a medieval castle that forms part of the "Ottrotter Castles" ensemble. This castle, along with Lützelburg, can be visited and offers varied paths for exploration.
- Ottrott is known for its medieval castles, religious sites, and extensive hiking trails. The region offers a variety of attractions, including vineyards and natural features like the Pagan Wall, providing diverse experiences for visitors.
- The attractions around Ottrott are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1500 upvotes and over 1100 photos shared by explorers.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Mount Sainte-Odile
Highlight • Settlement
The monastery complex now also houses a hotel and a restaurant. The monastery can largely be visited freely and there are many corners to go 'into yourself'.
The place is widely known and popular, so it is usually well frequented.
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Obernai
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Vineyards around Mittelbergheim
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Andlau Castle
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Rathsamhausen Castle
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The Ottrott castles are open to the public when volunteers are present on the site:
TUESDAY mornings from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m
SATURDAY all day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m
They are closed in bad weather.
Outside these slots, the castles can be visited upon special request, which you can send to us on the GROUP VISITS page
amchott.fr/infos-pratiques/acces
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The castle was built around 1264 by the Lords of Andlau, Knights of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation, and was largely spared the destructive fury of the Thirty Years' War. During the French Revolution, the castle was confiscated as national property and sold to a merchant in 1796, who resold it piece by piece from 1806 onward, without much notice. In 1818, the Andlau family bought back the castle to preserve its remains. This painstaking and meticulous work is now undertaken by the association "Les Amis du Château d'Andlau" (Friends of the Castle of Andlau).
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Unfortunately, I only realized afterwards that it can only be visited on a few days!
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In August 2024: The entire facility is closed “for safety reasons”.
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Beautiful view from below of the impressive ruin
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The two majestic towers, visible from afar, crown the 451-meter-high Silberberg and give this castle a proud appearance above the towns of Andlau and Barr. The castle was built around 1264 by the Lords of Andlau, Knights of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation, and was largely spared the destructive fury of the Thirty Years' War. During the French Revolution, the castle was confiscated as national property and sold to a merchant in 1796, who sold it piece by piece from 1806 onwards without anyone taking much notice. In 1818, the Andlau family bought the castle back in order to preserve its remains. A laborious and meticulous job that is now undertaken by the association "Les Amis du Château d'Andlau" (The Friends of the Castle of Andlau). Info from: https://www.alsaceterredechateaux.com/de/burgen-und-befestigte-staedte/hoh-andlau-haut-andlau/
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Well-preserved castle with two towers. It looks really good from the inside.
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Also known as Haut-Andlau, Andlau Castle is an atypical fortification with its two towers which stand on the heights of the Alsatian vineyard. The place is perfect as a hiking objective from Andlau, Mittelbergheim or Barr.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Ottrott?
Ottrott is rich in history. You can explore the medieval Rathsamhausen Castle, which is part of the 'Ottrotter Castles' ensemble, or the picturesque ruins of Andlau Castle, offering magnificent views over Barr. The significant pilgrimage site of Mount Sainte-Odile also features a monastery with deep historical roots.
Are there good viewpoints in the Ottrott area?
Yes, several locations offer stunning views. Mount Sainte-Odile provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Alsace Plain and the Vosges Mountains. The ruins of Andlau Castle also offer a magnificent vista over Barr and the surrounding Alsatian vineyard.
What natural features can I explore near Ottrott?
The region boasts diverse natural beauty. You can discover the mysterious 10.5-kilometer-long Pagan Wall, an ancient structure winding through the forest around Mont Sainte-Odile. The area is also known for its extensive forests and well-marked hiking trails, including the 'Sentier des Merveilles' (Marvels Path) with its giant rocks.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Ottrott?
Ottrott is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking on trails leading to castles and viewpoints. The area is also popular for cycling, with options for gravel biking, mountain biking, and road cycling, with routes like the 'Alsace Wine Route Vineyards' offering scenic rides.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Ottrott?
Many attractions around Ottrott are suitable for families. Exploring the medieval castles like Rathsamhausen Castle or the picturesque town of Obernai with its half-timbered houses can be enjoyable for all ages. Gentle hiking trails in the surrounding forests also offer opportunities for family outings.
Can I visit vineyards and taste local wine in Ottrott?
Yes, Ottrott is renowned for its 'Rouge d'Ottrott,' a Burgundy grape variety. You can explore the Vineyards around Mittelbergheim and discover local wine producers along the Sentier Viticole (Winegrowers' Path). This offers a great opportunity to learn about and taste the region's unique wines.
What is the best time of year to visit Ottrott?
The area around Ottrott is beautiful throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the vineyards, with vibrant foliage in fall. Summer is ideal for longer outdoor activities, while winter can provide a serene, snow-covered landscape, especially around Mount Sainte-Odile.
What is special about the castles near Ottrott?
The castles near Ottrott, particularly the Châteaux d'Ottrott (Rathsamhausen and Lutzelbourg), are medieval fortresses with unique architectural features. Rathsamhausen Castle is noted for its 'donjon-palais' (keep-palace) design. Many of these castles are accessible via hiking trails, offering a blend of history and nature. You can find more information on their opening times at amchott.fr.
Are there any religious sites to visit in Ottrott?
Absolutely. Mount Sainte-Odile is a significant pilgrimage destination featuring a monastery. In Ottrott-le-Haut, you can visit the 18th-century Eglise Sts Simon et Jude, known for its Silbermann organs. The 12th-century Eglise St Nicolas in Ottrott-le-Bas boasts well-preserved Romanesque foundations and one of Alsace's oldest Madonnas.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ottrott?
Visitors frequently praise the fantastic views from places like Mount Sainte-Odile and the historical charm of the medieval castles. The well-maintained hiking trails and the picturesque Alsatian towns like Obernai are also highly appreciated for their beauty and cultural experience.
Are there any easy hiking trails near Ottrott?
Yes, the area offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for different fitness levels. While some routes to castles can be intermediate, there are also easier paths through the forests and vineyards, such as sections of the Sentier Viticole, allowing for leisurely walks and exploration of the natural beauty.
Where can I find a typical Alsatian town experience near Ottrott?
For a quintessential Alsatian town experience, visit Obernai. It's a charming example of a small Alsatian town with its distinctive half-timbered houses, a lively market square, and a rich historical heritage. It's also known for its cozy restaurants and wine bars.
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