Blotzheim offers several distinct points of interest for a culture-focused stay: a Marian pilgrimage chapel with a long parish history, the Église Saint-Léger, known by its famous nickname, and a château with a medieval predecessor. There are also two circular walks dedicated to the town’s calvaries. Both are approximately five kilometres long and start at the Maison du Parc car park. Performances, possible events and local dining options round out the selection.
Churches, Chapel and Château History
The Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Chêne is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and served as the parish church from the 14th to the 17th century. Its history spans several construction phases: the bell tower dates from 1494, the nave from 1629 and the present-day choir from the rebuilding carried out between 1712 and 1717. The chapel has been listed as a historic monument since 1986. These different dates give its architectural history a clear timeline.
The Église Saint-Léger marks a later period: it was built between 1852 and 1864 and is known as the “Cathédrale du Sundgau.” The history of today’s Château de Blotzheim leads back to a medieval predecessor. In 1730, the château replaced a castle that had been destroyed in 1445. Blotzheim thus brings together several historical points of reference: the chapel’s parish history, the construction of the Église Saint-Léger in the 19th century, and the history of the castle that preceded today’s château.
Circular Walks to the Calvaries
The Circuit des Calvaires comprises two circular walks that highlight the town’s calvaries as important reminders of its past. Both routes are approximately five kilometres long and start at the Maison du Parc car park. They therefore share the same length and starting point, offering travellers interested in the calvaries a practical framework for planning their walks. Some sections pass through open countryside. There is also an alternative route between points 1 and 2.
Seasonal conditions can affect how practical some sections are. Before setting out, check which sections are suitable during the relevant season. The circular walks combine views of the calvaries with sections through open countryside, without their approximate length indicating how long it will take to walk them.
Events and Dining
The Maison du Parc also serves as the shared starting point for both circular walks. The local history association makes the Maison available for possible exhibitions, conferences and gatherings; individual event dates may vary. If you would like to include one of these events in your stay, check the dates in advance.
Performances take place at the Casino Barrière Blotzheim throughout the year. For specific evening plans, it is advisable to check the performance schedule in advance. At the casino, Blotz'Café offers brasserie classics such as burgers, Caesar salad and fish & chips, as well as a seasonal dish and cocktails. As the menu and offerings may change, check the latest information if you plan to dine there.
An article dated 28 May 2024 described a wide selection of takeaway beers at Brasserie La Bicéphale. It mentioned pale, white and amber beers, IPAs and flavoured varieties brewed with local ingredients. The selection may change. The takeaway range adds a variety of beer styles to Blotzheim’s dining options.
Discover more destinations: Ostheim, Thannenkirch, Wittenheim, Rixheim, Saint-Amarin, Rodern, Winkel, Balschwiller
For the main travel overview: Haut-Rhin.
