Torchlight New Year's Eve around the Castle

Every December 31st for nearly twenty years, the Sundgau Torchlight New Year's Eve has offered a night torchlight walk to the ruins of Ferrette Castle. This approximately three-kilometer route, lasting about an hour with a positive elevation gain of 150 meters, follows forest paths. It is advised to wear suitable shoes and bring a backup flashlight. From the media library, a direct 10 to 15-minute climb leads to the castle, where arrival between 10:30 PM and 11 PM is recommended. The walk starts at 10 PM from a dedicated parking area, with the path marked all the way to the castle. Torches are provided free of charge, one torch for every two people, with a voluntary donation box supporting the organizing associations. At midnight, a glass of crémant is offered within the castle grounds. A refreshment stand sells drinks, including mulled wine, and New Year's pretzels, but no food service is available on site. Payment on site is cash only. This intergenerational event is family-friendly but requires consideration of the night walk and elevation gain. The uniqueness of the evening lies in its medieval setting, the torchlit ascent, the surrounding nature, free activities, friendly atmosphere, and outdoor New Year's celebration. Before the walk, dining is possible at the Carpe-Frite restaurant – Salle Robelin, located at the walk's starting point, offering a menu at €34 for adults, €15 for children 6–12 years old, and free for under 6s, open from 6 PM to 11 PM (reservation at 03 89 40 26 24). An alternative is the raclette meal at Centre Don Bosco, a 15-minute walk from the start, with a menu at €50 for over 12s and €25 for under 12s, including a glass of crémant, cold cuts, salads, and dessert, open from 7 PM to 10 PM (reservation before December 27, 2026, at 03 89 40 40 55). The event is funded by the Sundgau Tourist Office, the Ferrette Town Hall, with support from Crédit Mutuel and the European Collectivity of Alsace.