Haut-Rhin

Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg

The Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is a medieval castle that was built in the 12th century. The castle was destroyed during the Thirty Years' War but was restored in the 20th century. Visitors can tour the castle and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Munster

Munster is a small town in Haut-Rhin that is famous for its cheese. Visitors can learn about the cheese-making process at the Maison du Fromage, a museum dedicated to Munster cheese. The town is also surrounded by hiking trails and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park

The Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park is a protected area that covers over 300,000 acres. The park is home to several hiking trails, lakes, and waterfalls, and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and fishing. The park is also home to several species of wildlife, such as chamois, ibex, and lynx.

WELCOME TO Haut-Rhin

Entry Into Department

largest city

Mulhouse

AREA

3,525 km²

POPULATION

768,261

official language

French

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

The Vosges Mountains

The Vosges Mountains are a range of low-lying mountains located in eastern France. The mountains are known for their stunning natural beauty, with rolling hills, forests, and lakes that offer a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and cycling. The Vosges Mountains also have several natural parks and nature reserves, making them a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Alsace Wine Route

The Alsace Wine Route is a scenic 170-kilometer route that runs through the picturesque towns and vineyards of the Haut-Rhin region in eastern France. The route is lined with charming villages, local wineries, and beautiful vineyards, offering visitors a chance to taste some of the best wines produced in the region while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

The Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle

The Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle is a stunning medieval castle located in the Vosges Mountains of the Haut-Rhin region in eastern France. Built in the 12th century, the castle was restored in the early 20th century and offers visitors a chance to explore its history, architecture, and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It's a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Political

Economy and Government

Haut-Rhin is a department in the Grand Est region of France. The economy of Haut-Rhin is characterized by a mix of traditional and modern industries. Agriculture, particularly wine-making, is a significant sector in the region. Additionally, manufacturing industries such as textiles, machinery, and chemicals, contribute significantly to the economy. The department is also known for its tourism industry, with attractions such as the Alsace Wine Route, the Vosges mountains, and historic towns like Colmar and Mulhouse.

The government of Haut-Rhin is structured similarly to other departments in France. It is led by a Prefect who represents the French central government and oversees the day-to-day administration of the department. The department also has a locally elected council, the Conseil départemental, which is responsible for setting policy and managing local affairs.

In recent years, the government of Haut-Rhin has prioritized economic development and job creation. The department has implemented various initiatives to support businesses and entrepreneurs, such as providing funding and resources for small and medium-sized enterprises. The government has also invested in infrastructure projects, such as the construction of new industrial parks and the expansion of transportation networks, to attract more investment and support economic growth.

History

History and Culture

Haut-Rhin is a department in the Grand Est region of France with a rich history and culture. The region has a unique heritage and is well-known for its distinctive Alsatian culture.

The department was part of the Holy Roman Empire before being annexed by France in 1648. In the following centuries, it was alternately under German and French rule until becoming part of France permanently in 1918 after World War I. The region's unique history is reflected in its architecture, with buildings featuring both French and German influences.

The culture of Haut-Rhin is heavily influenced by its Alsatian roots, including its food, music, and language. Alsatian cuisine is a blend of French and German dishes, with specialties such as choucroute (sauerkraut) and flammekueche (a type of pizza). The region is also famous for its wine, particularly its Rieslings and Gewurztraminers.

Alsatian culture is also reflected in its traditional music and dances, such as the schottische and the polka. The region is also home to numerous museums and historical sites, including the Unterlinden Museum in Colmar, which features medieval and Renaissance art, and the Mulhouse Museum of Printed Textiles, which showcases the region's industrial history.

Overall, Haut-Rhin's rich history and unique cultural heritage make it a fascinating destination for visitors and a source of pride for its residents.

HOTELS

Hotel Le Maréchal

Located in the heart of the picturesque town of Colmar, Hotel Le Maréchal is a charming boutique hotel housed in a historic 16th-century building. The hotel features beautifully appointed rooms and suites, a gourmet restaurant, and a spa.

Château d'Isenbourg

Set in a beautiful castle overlooking the vineyards of the Alsace wine region, Château d'Isenbourg is a luxurious five-star hotel that combines historic charm with modern amenities. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a spa.

Hôtel Les Haras

Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century stud farm in the historic city of Strasbourg, Hôtel Les Haras is a stylish and contemporary hotel that offers a unique blend of modern design and historic architecture. The hotel features sleek and spacious rooms and suites, a gourmet restaurant, and a bar.

RESTAURANTS

Auberge de l'Ill

Located in the charming village of Illhaeusern, Auberge de l'Ill is a Michelin three-star restaurant that has been a culinary institution in the region for over 70 years. The restaurant features exquisite French cuisine and an extensive wine list.

La Table du Gourmet

La Table du Gourmet: Set in a 17th-century building in the town of Riquewihr, La Table du Gourmet is a Michelin one-star restaurant that offers creative and contemporary cuisine inspired by the local Alsatian traditions. The restaurant features a warm and inviting atmosphere and an impressive wine cellar.

Les Jardins de Sophie

Housed in a beautiful 19th-century mansion in the town of Xonrupt-Longemer, Les Jardins de Sophie is a gourmet restaurant that serves creative and refined French cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant features a beautiful dining room and a lovely garden terrace.