When temperatures soar, it's always nice to find a bit of coolness without having to give up your vacation. Good news: the Villé Valley and its surroundings are brimming with activities to fully enjoy summer, sheltered from the heat. Swimming pools, museums, forest walks, waterfalls, or even gourmet discoveries… here are our top ideas for spending a cool day out!
Take a dip at Aquavallées
For a refreshing and fun experience, head to Aquavallées in Bassemberg. The aquatic center offers an outdoor pool, a large pool, a paddling pool for toddlers, and a water slide. Adults can also enjoy the wellness area with a sauna, steam room, and relaxation room, or participate in one of the many aquatic activities offered throughout the year.
Step back in time at the Villé Valley Museum
When the sun is at its highest, why not visit the Villé Valley Museum in Albé? Housed in a former Vosges farmhouse, it retraces the daily life of the valley's inhabitants through reconstructions, antique objects, and remarkably well-preserved buildings. In July and August, numerous activities complement the visit, offering a fun way to discover the heritage.
A gourmet visit to the Confitures du Climont
In Maisonsgoutte, Confitures du Climont offers a unique family experience. Discover the jam museum, the only one of its kind in France, before visiting the production workshop where jams are made right before your eyes in antique copper cauldrons. The visit concludes with a free tasting of over forty recipes, sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Explore the old mines
Underground, the temperature remains pleasant year-round. The old mines of Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines offer an adventure that is as refreshing as it is fascinating. Whether at the Gabe Gottes mine or the Saint-Louis Eisenthür mine, young and old alike can discover the history of the miners, the underground galleries, and the geological treasures of the Vosges Mountains.
Gaining altitude on the Route des Crêtes
A few hundred meters of altitude is often enough to find more pleasant temperatures. The Route des Crêtes (Crest Road) offers exceptional panoramic views of the Vosges Mountains, the surrounding valleys, and, on a clear day, even the Alps. Whether by car, bicycle, or on foot, it's the perfect getaway to breathe in the fresher air.
Balade en trottinette électrique tout terrain
Steph Trott' Alsace offers guided off-road electric scooter tours through the most beautiful landscapes of Alsace. Stéphane adapts each route to the participants' skill level so that everyone can fully enjoy the experience. Between forests, vineyards, and iconic landmarks, it's an activity accessible to all, ideal for discovering the region in a different way, while enjoying the fresh air of nature.
Paddle along the water with Alsace Canoës
Departing from Sélestat, Alsace Canoës offers canoe and kayak trips suitable for all levels. Whether on your own or accompanied by a certified instructor, explore the Alsatian rivers amidst unspoiled nature. Depending on the chosen route, expect between two hours and a full day of adventure on the water.
A family day out at Cigoland
Located in Kintzheim, Cigoland is a great idea for a family outing. The park offers numerous attractions, daily circus shows, and Cigoplage, a water play area where children can cool off and have fun. It's the perfect place to spend a pleasant day, even when temperatures are high.
Delve into history at the Alsace-Moselle Memorial
In Schirmeck, the Alsace-Moselle Memorial invites you to discover the history of Alsace and Moselle from 1870 to the construction of Europe. Through immersive displays, films, photographs, and numerous personal accounts, the visit offers a deeper understanding of this pivotal period in our history. Allow approximately two hours to explore the 17 exhibition spaces.
Experience adventure in the trees
At Parc Alsace Aventure in Breitenbach, the forest becomes a true refuge from the heat. Tree climbing courses, zip lines, treasure hunts, Explor Games®, laser tag, and the World of the Bretz'Elves allow you to spend a full day in nature, in the shade of the fir trees.
Cool off at the foot of the Hohwald waterfall
The Hohwald waterfall is one of the most pleasant spots during periods of intense heat. Nestled in the forest at an altitude of 700 meters, it offers a cool and soothing atmosphere. The more adventurous can even dip their toes in the icy water, while others can simply enjoy the tranquility of the place or a picnic in the shade.
Go for a walk first thing in the morning
The early hours of the day are ideal for exploring the Villé Valley. Hiking, family walks, geocaching, or orienteering trails offer opportunities to fully enjoy nature before the heat of the day. It's also the best time to admire the wildlife, listen to the birds, and appreciate the tranquility of the landscapes.
Relaxing at the Lilaveronica Garden
To end the day on a peaceful note, the Lilaveronica Garden is a true haven of tranquility. Among the ponds, waterfalls, grasses, and water lilies, a stroll is both refreshing and soothing. An exhibition of large-format photographs is also on display, and admission is free.
A summer full of freshness
Even when the mercury rises, there are a thousand ways to enjoy the Villé Valley. Between cultural discoveries, outdoor activities, swimming and gourmet getaways, everyone will find their own refreshing spot.