Soultzeren

Population: 1178 (source INSEE 2006)

Surface area: 1837 ha

The first mention of the village of Soultzeren appears around 900 in the form "Saltzeren". The origin of this name is linked to the presence of saltwater springs.

The first church was built here in 1463. Between 1543 and 1559, the population became Protestant, adhering faithfully to the ideas of Martin Luther.
During the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), the village suffered particularly from the exactions of the soldiers. The population took refuge in the surrounding forests. Worship services were held at the "Bichtstein" rock, whose name means "stone of confession, of repentance", as confessions were also accepted there.

The village was destroyed during the First World War.

What to see - What to do

Bollard

This milestone, located on the route de Stosswihr at the entrance to the village, is topped by a French military helmet. Donated in 1923 by Alsatians-Lorrains from Argentina, it marks the extreme advance of the German offensive in February 1915.

Protestant church

The Protestant church dates back to 1869 and was restored in 1921-23. The steeple was damaged by German artillery in June 1940 and took its present form in 1949. The building has recently undergone extensive restoration.

Primary school

The architecture of Soultzeren?s imposing elementary school is typical of the rebuilding carried out after the First World War. The school was inaugurated in 1924.

Hiking

Departure from La Boucherie for the Club Vosgien hiking trails.

Departure from Kaltenborn (next to the fire department stand) on the route du Wettstein - lac du Forlet.

Departure from Col du Wettstein and the Tanet parking lot (small ski lift) for the entire panoramic site passing through the Hohrodberg, Wettstein, Lac du Forlet (or Lac des Truites), Lac Vert (or Lac de Soultzeren), Tanet, Bichtstein and the ridge towards the GR5 and 531.

DATAtourisme France