Allschwil’s village church is the municipality’s oldest building; meanwhile, forests, orchards and special places extend into the surrounding landscape. During a stay, you can discover different sides of the area: historic buildings in the village centre, art in public spaces and natural areas with their own distinctive character.
Between Basel and France
Allschwil is a municipality and small town in the Arlesheim district of the canton of Basel-Landschaft. It borders the city of Basel, lies on its southwestern edge and is surrounded by France on two sides. The municipality is part of the same metropolitan area as Basel. For travel by public transport, tram line 6 connects Allschwil with Basel and the border with Riehen. As routes may change, check the current network before travelling. A well-developed cycling path network also helps you find your way around the area.
Village church and historic mill
The present-day Old Catholic parish church of St Peter and St Paul was built in 1698/99; its tower dates from the 13th century. The village church preserves an early Neoclassical interior from 1841. The high altar features Gothic wooden figures of the church’s patron saints, Peter and Paul, dating from around 1500. The different dates of origin make the building’s history and its furnishings two distinct points of interest.
At the southern edge of the village centre, the Allschwil Mill stands beside the old settlement, where the MĂĽlibach, coming from Neuwiller, flows into the village. Because of an episcopal privilege to grind flour for communion wafers, it was also known as the HostienmĂĽhle (Host Wafer Mill). There is an inn on the ground floor, with smaller halls above. The Walmerhaus, at Dorfplatz 3, is also located in the historic village centre; it is thought to have been built in the 18th century.
An art trail with a clear time estimate
Since 23 October 2021, the Allschwil Sculpture Trail has officially linked 19 sculptures by 12 artists with a connection to the area. It is accessible to people with disabilities; depending on your pace, the route takes about one to one and a half hours. This makes the art walk easy to plan as a separate activity, without needing to set an exact walking time. In addition to the 19 artworks, the trail guide includes information about sights and historical connections.
Forest, orchards and amphibian conservation
Allschwil Forest covers more than 200 hectares and has been protected by the canton since 2003. Its many old oak trees provide a habitat for, among others, middle spotted woodpeckers and numerous other birds and insects. South of Allschwil, high-stem orchards surround the village; they too provide a habitat for birds and insects. The forest and orchards each add a distinct feature to the landscape.
Other protected habitats are dedicated to amphibians: there are two amphibian conservation areas at the Ziegelei. In 2008, a nine-hectare amphibian conservation area was created in the Mühlitäli, between the edge of the settlement and the national border with France. The Plumpi offers a different setting. It lies outside the settlement, between open countryside, the Mülibach and Allschwil Forest. There are fire pits, picnic tables and seating, as well as a slide tower, a zip line, a hilly area with a climbing garden, and a sand and water play area.
Museum and carnival
The Allschwil Museum is dedicated to the culture and history of Allschwil and the region. It presents several temporary exhibitions each year, hosts cultural events and has a large garden. Its programme and opening arrangements may change; check the latest information if you are planning a visit.
The Allschwil Carnival is another distinctive cultural highlight. Since 1950, the «Wildviertel-Clique» has been responsible for organising it. The programme includes a Morgestreich (early-morning carnival parade), a carnival procession, a Guggenmusik concert, a children’s parade and a lantern exhibition. Exact dates and programme details vary from year to year, so check the date in advance.
Discover more travel destinations: Muttenz, Birsfelden, Arlesheim, Ettingen, Reinach, Binningen, Aesch, Schönenbuch.
Back to the main travel overview: Arlesheim.
