Winkel

Perched at 575 meters above sea level at the foot of the Glaserberg massif, the village of Winkel is best known for housing the source of the Ill, an iconic river of Alsace. After flowing 217 km through the region, the Ill empties into the Rhine north of Strasbourg. The village's preserved natural setting makes it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts, especially in winter with two snowshoe trails and marked cross-country skiing routes suitable for all levels.

Winkel's historical heritage is also worth visiting. The Saint-Laurent Church, built in the 18th century, contains two Baroque side altars classified as Historic Monuments, originating from the former Lucelle Abbey. Nearby, the Warth Chapel, partially carved into the rock and dating from the 14th century, is linked to the tragic legend of the knight Rodolphe de Warth. These sites reflect the rich and turbulent history of the region.

For hikers, Winkel offers several options. The Marocains Trail allows discovery of the remains of the Maginot Line built before 1939, with a guidebook available online. The Beech Alley, made up of remarkable trees, offers a 6 km circuit with a 160-meter elevation gain, accessible from the Charrière parking lot. These routes, suitable for all levels, invite exploration of nature and local heritage in a preserved environment.