Altkirch and the Sundgau region

The Enchanted Forest (Forêt Enchantée) brings the tales and legends of the Sundgau and Alsace to life through enchanting scenes dotted throughout the town centre. Unique in Alsace, this magical experience, designed by visual artist Anne Zimmermann in the heart of Altkirch, offers a bold and contemporary alternative to traditional Christmas markets. Visitors are invited to celebrate Christmas in an original way, surrounded by fairies, elves, witches and knights.

A wide range of events also brings Altkirch to life during the Enchanted Forest festivities, including concerts, street performances, exhibitions, an outdoor ice rink and spectacular projection mapping. Adding to the magical atmosphere, the town will host the first edition of a gourmet market featuring producers from France’s Sites Remarquables du Goût (Outstanding Culinary Heritage Sites), on December 19 and 20, in the square in front of the church. Much more than a traditional Christmas market, this exceptional culinary experience, organised by Sundgau, Routes de la Carpe Frite, invites visitors to discover delicious specialities and hidden gastronomic treasures from across France.

The Sundgau Tourist Office adds to the festive magic by organising guided storytelling tours of the Enchanted Forest and a Christmas treasure hunt throughout the season.

Throughout December, the festive spirit spreads across the entire region. From the Christmas markets of Dannemarie and Illfurth to the intimate atmosphere of Oltingue, at the foot of the Alsatian Jura mountains, villages come alive with Advent concerts, creative workshops and Saint Nicholas parades.

As the year draws to a close, Ferrette and its castle provide a spectacular setting for an unusual New Year’s Eve torchlight walk! The tradition has remained unchanged for several years: on December 31, from 10 pm, the Sundgau Tourist Office and Ferrette Town Hall invite visitors to enjoy a 3 km walk around the castle. Follow a candlelit trail leading into the heart of this medieval fortress, where you can gather around the New Year’s bonfire and enjoy a glass of Crémant d’Alsace accompanied by music.

Christmas markets and events can also be found throughout the Sundgau region, more details on www.sundgau-sudalsace.fr.

Our top tip : the Enchanted Forest

Office de Tourisme du Sundgau, Southern Alsace

E-mail : info@sundgau.fr
Internet : www.sundgau-sudalsace.fr