The picturesque town of Saverne is a gateway to the Vosges Mountains. Set on the Rhine-Marne Canal, the medieval town is dominated by a handsome Neoclassical chateau. Stroll around the half-timbered historic centre, visit local history museums and hike in a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
Things to do in Saverne
Rohan Castle towers over the town and features a magnificent Neoclassical façade. At 140 metres long, the 18th-century castle is enormous and nicknamed the “Little Versailles of Alsace”. Walk around the picturesque grounds and visit the Saverne Museum, which showcases a fantastic collection of Gallo-Roman relics. You’ll also see rooms filled with art, antiques and medieval artefacts.
Half-timbered houses built by wealthy merchants line the streets of Saverne. You can find some of the most beautiful buildings, including the elaborate Katz House, along La Grand'Rue. Nearby is Place de la Licorne, a sunny plaza anchored by a bubbling unicorn fountain. The scenic Rhine-Marne Canal winds through the town centre and is a lovely place to stroll. Flower-filled baskets line the canal and add to the postcard-perfect setting.
Saverne is an excellent base for outdoor adventures in the Vosges Mountains. The town borders the North Vosges Regional Natural Reserve, where dozens of trails take you to half-timbered villages and ancient castles. The park is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and protects a picturesque landscape of woodlands and rolling hills.
Perched on a trio of sandstone rocks, Chateau de Haut-Barr commands sweeping views over the Alsace Plain, Vosges Mountains and surrounding countryside. The medieval castle dates to the 12th century and is nicknamed the Eye of Alsace for its wide-reaching views. On clear days, you can make out the 142-metre-high belltower of Strasbourg Cathedral.
Getting around Saverne
Saverne is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is in the Grand Est region, a 40-minute drive from Strasbourg and 25 minutes by train. Strasbourg Airport is a one-hour drive away.