Discover Villé through its many different traces: church architecture and burial culture, textile history by the water, and activities involving puzzles or navigation. When planning, it is especially useful to distinguish between a themed village walk, a navigation course with a stated duration, and a seasonal market event.
Church architecture and local history
The Eglise Notre Dame de Villé was built between 1754 and 1758 by Joseph Elmerich, to plans by the architect Chassain. The Baroque church has a nave flanked by two aisles; the choir is Neo-Gothic. This makes it possible to compare different styles in parts of the same building.
The former municipal cemetery lies beside the parish church, within the moat that once protected this district. Many tombs typical of the 19th century preserve wrought-iron crosses and carved steles. At the centre stands a monumental cross bearing the date 1673. The synagogue is also part of the town’s history: it was built in 1904 on Place de la Liberté for the Jewish community of the time. After restoration, it was rededicated on November 6, 1955.
Textile history and historic homes
The “Au fil de l’eau” Heritage Trail runs along former diversion channels. It traces the early practice of home weaving and the development of the textile industry by the water in the 19th century. The connection to water and the development of the textile trade form the trail’s central theme.
The Maison d’Ornano offers another glimpse into the past. This historic complex comprises a dwelling, a barn, a stable, a cellar and an extensive orchard. The imposing patrician house dates from the 18th century and was once intended to accommodate guests of the lord of Villé, the Marquis de Choiseul-Meuse.
Puzzles, navigation and activities
The Balade ludique à Villé is a playful walk through the village, with puzzles along the way. It is available in three versions for children aged 4 to 12 and for the whole family. The Parcours d’initiation à l’orientation offers a different kind of discovery: using a map and clues, participants must find 14 markers hidden in the forest. The orienteering course is 5 kilometres long, takes about two hours and is open to everyone. The distance and approximate duration help you plan for this course; the village walk, by contrast, centres on puzzles. Check the latest information about the activity before setting out on the orienteering course.
Villé’s pump track is suitable for BMX bikes, mountain bikes and scooters. Check the latest information on its use before your visit.
Seasonal events and getting there
The recurring seasonal Marché Terroir et Traditions brings together producers, farmers and craftspeople from the valley. They showcase regional products made using their craft skills. The event includes musical entertainment, activities for children and refreshments on site. Check the latest market dates and programme before travelling.
Regular bus route 510 connects Villé and Sélestat. In Villé, it departs from or stops at the MJC, the market square and the former railway station. As routes and operating arrangements may change, it is advisable to check the latest timetable before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Weyersheim, Blaesheim, Natzwiller, Wintzenbach, Rosheim, La Petite-Pierre, Oberbronn, Molsheim.
Go to the regional travel overview: Bas-Rhin.
