The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Forêt De Sierck

The signage is poor... Some forks in the road are missing... Not recommended

A well-developed cycle path, highly recommended! You can follow it from the Luxembourg border to Épinal – at the foot of the Vosges Mountains.

We only cycled past, but it's definitely worth a hike. There are many Celtic sights to discover there.

⛪ **Église abbatiale Sainte-Croix – Heart of the Abbey in Bouzonville** The **Église abbatiale Sainte-Croix** is the impressive **monastery church of the Benedictine abbey** in **Bouzonville** and a spiritual center with over 1,000 years of history. Originally founded in the **11th century**, the church today combines **Romanesque roots** with **Gothic and Baroque elements**, which have been added through numerous renovations. 🕍 Particularly striking: the massive portal, the tranquil interior with its barrel vault, and the harmoniously simple design, which invites contemplation. Regular services and hymns performed by the religious community lend the place a special depth. **Tip:** The church is open during the day and is a wonderful place of tranquility – particularly impressive by candlelight or in conjunction with a visit to the historic monastery complex.

⛪ **Saint-Croix Abbey in Bouzonville – Monastic Tradition with a Rich History** The **Saint-Croix Abbey** in **Bouzonville** is one of the oldest monastic complexes in the region. Founded in the **11th century**, it was a spiritual center between the Moselle and Saar rivers for centuries. The Romanesque-Gothic architecture of the monastery church has been rebuilt and restored several times, but its origins remain. 📜 After its dissolution during the French Revolution, the monastery was partially destroyed but later returned to religious use. Today, it is inhabited by a **Benedictine community** that welcomes visitors. **Tip:** The simple, spiritual atmosphere of the complex invites you to pause for a moment. Ideal for a quiet stroll or a quick visit to the monastery shop – featuring handmade products made by the nuns.

⛪ St. Lawrence Church in Rettel – Romanesque meets Renaissance on the Moselle St. Lawrence Church in the French town of Rettel is an impressive example of religious architecture with roots in the 11th century. Originally built as part of a Benedictine monastery, it has been expanded several times over the years, incorporating Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements. 🕍 Particularly striking: the massive bell tower, the restored main portal, and the historic church interior with its Baroque pulpit and ornate stained glass windows. Tip: The church is located directly on a hiking trail above the Moselle – ideal for a quiet break with cultural depth. Anyone interested in sacred architecture will find a rare gem with a spiritual flair here.

📍 Celtic House Rehlingen-Siersburg – Hands-on History This reconstructed Celtic farmstead, created from finds from the Saar-Moselle-Metz region, stands in the middle of the forest. It demonstrates how Celtic tribes lived, built, and buried their dead over 2,000 years ago. 🏡 The complex includes a residential building, burial mounds, and information panels – erected with the support of local schools, communities, and clubs. An exciting learning center with a real connection to regional history.

🏺 Reconstructed Celtic burial mound near Rehlingen-Siersburg An impressive insight into the region's early history: The burial mound was faithfully reconstructed based on archaeological finds and shows how Celtic princes were once buried – often with chariots, weapons, and grave goods. 🟤 A quiet, historic spot in the countryside – ideal for a short break with historical depth.