Erstein can be explored through a range of themes: the heritage of the Filature de Laine Peignée, historic buildings, exhibitions and hiking trails through the town and forest. When planning a stay, you can choose how to balance culture and nature: historic walking tours lead to notable sites, the Musée Würth and the Etappenstall each offer a distinct focus, and guided tours of the Polder d’Erstein are available by reservation.
Industrial History and Historic Sites
The Cité Ouvrière known as “Neye Hisle” offers a tangible glimpse into Erstein’s industrial history. Built between 1884 and 1896, it consists of 17 semi-detached houses constructed to the same plan for employees of the Filature de Laine Peignée. The protection granted by decree on 17 February 2014 covers the original façades and roofs of the workers’ houses, their associated sheds, and the surviving wells, ditches, enclosures and gardens.
The historic walking tour through the town centre passes notable buildings and sites. The industrial heritage tour focuses on the Filature de Laine Peignée, whose history began in 1855. The routes offer different perspectives: one focuses on buildings and sites in the town centre, while the other explores the history of the Filature.
The present-day church of Saint Martin d’Erstein is another historic landmark. It was built in 1859 to plans by the architect Antoine Ringeisen, after the former place of worship was destroyed. Alongside the industrial history, it marks a significant moment in the town’s architectural history.
Exhibitions and Culture
The Musée Würth France Erstein hosts temporary exhibitions from the Würth Collection throughout the year. The collection encompasses all artistic movements from the late 19th century to the present day. The museum also offers guided tours, workshops for different age groups and a varied cultural programme. If you want to visit a particular exhibition or event, check the current programme in advance, as individual dates may vary.
The Etappenstall offers a different perspective: its permanent archaeological section features an exceptionally well-preserved Bronze Age well and finds from a Merovingian necropolis. There are also temporary exhibitions on local heritage, artistic disciplines and social issues, presented using interactive displays. This brings a permanent archaeological theme together with changing exhibition topics.
Forest, Hiking Trails and Polder
The Forêt d’Erstein nature reserve is home to almost 300 plant species, 29 vertebrate species, 44 species of butterflies and dragonflies, and 78 bird species. These figures may change as future surveys are carried out. They illustrate the diversity of plant and animal life in the reserve.
For outdoor activities, there are the Circuits des trois forĂŞts. These established hiking trails are open to everyone and pass through the town and forest of Erstein. There are three distances to choose from: 6, 12 and 20 kilometres. The trails present no particular difficulties. Trail conditions may vary, so it is a good idea to check them before setting off. The three distances make planning easier.
Another option is a guided tour of the Polder d’Erstein. It is offered free of charge and by reservation. Check the current visitor arrangements before planning your visit. This lets you choose between a hiking trail and a guided tour as two different ways to experience nature.
Getting to the Musée Würth
The Musée Würth can be reached on the Strasbourg–Basel TER line, which stops at Erstein. If you are planning to travel by train, check the current timetable before your journey. This connection offers a practical option for visiting the museum; for your other explorations, you can focus on your interests in industrial history, exhibitions or nature.
Discover more destinations: Albe, Reinhardsmunster, Dossenheim-Kochersberg, Surbourg, Lampertheim, Mittelhausen, Obersteinbach, Traenheim.
See the overview of destinations in the region: Bas-Rhin.
