Ferrette

A small town nestled at the foot of its castle, the town of the powerful counts of Ferrette is nestled on the first foothills of the Alsatian Jura ... This town with a prestigious past will charm you with its narrow and romantic paths which lead to the haughty ruins of the Ferrette castle and the mysterious Dwarf Cave where a famous legend is told.

Everything in this town goes back to the history of the Counts of Ferrette who founded the most powerful lordship reigning in a quasi-sovereign state for almost two centuries in the Middle Ages. Today, Prince Albert II of Monaco still bears the title of Count of Ferrette due to the marriage of his ancestor Grimaldi in 1777 with the heiress of the Mazarins.

Come and discover this charming little town, his castle, its Re-Naissance museum space, its listed church and town hall, its Tourist Office, its numerous hiking trails without forgetting its Dwarven Cave hidden at the foot of an impressive limestone gorge.

Not to miss :

- Ferrette walking tour, the castle and the Cave of the Dwarfs : 4,5 km / 2 hours. Topoguide to download here

- Discovery tour of the old town and the castle : count 1:30 to 2 hours and plan to wear good shoes.

- Visit of the castle: 45 / 60min. Pedestrian access 15 min from the parking lot of the Tourist Office. To be well shod. Walking guide to discover the castles from the Alsatian Jura: € 3

- Guided tour of the town and the castle, on demand.

- Re-Naissance museum space

- Access to the Rossberg panoramic tower : 30/45 min round trip from the parking lot of the Ferrette motorhome area. Possibility of making a larger loop from Ferrette or Vieux Ferrette.

- For families, a fun ride is offered via the "Track and Treasure"on smartphone. 

FAQ – Discover Ferrette

1. Why is Ferrette an emblematic town of the Sundgau?
Ferrette is a charming little town nestled at the foot of its castle, on the first foothills of the Alsatian Jura. The former capital of a powerful medieval lordship, it boasts a remarkable heritage. Its narrow streets, spectacular natural setting, and prestigious past linked to the Counts of Ferrette make it one of the most emblematic and romantic places in the Sundgau region.

2. What role did the Counts of Ferrette play in history?
The Counts of Ferrette founded one of the most powerful lordships in the Sundgau region, wielding near-sovereign power for almost two centuries during the Middle Ages. Their influence profoundly marked the town and the surrounding area. Even today, this title is held by Prince Albert II of Monaco, heir to this lineage through marriage to the Grimaldi family.

3. What can one visit in Ferrette?
Ferrette offers many must-see attractions: the castle ruins overlooking the town, the listed church and town hall, the Re-Naissance museum, the Tourist Office, and the mysterious Grotte des Nains (Dwarf Cave). Each site contributes to telling the medieval story of the town and allows visitors to discover its rich architectural and cultural heritage.

4. What is the Dwarf Cave and why is it famous?
The Dwarf Cave is a natural and legendary site located at the foot of an impressive limestone gorge. It is associated with a famous local legend, passed down through generations. Easily accessible during a walk, it adds a touch of mystery to a visit to Ferrette and particularly appeals to families and lovers of traditional tales.

5. What hikes and walks can be done around Ferrette?
Several routes allow you to discover Ferrette on foot, including a 6 km walk linking the town, the castle, and the Grotte des Nains (Dwarf Cave). A discovery tour of the old town and the castle is also available. The surrounding footpaths offer beautiful panoramic views of the Alsatian Jura mountains and are suitable for all levels, provided you wear appropriate footwear.

6. What activities are offered for visitors and families?
Visitors can enjoy self-guided or guided tours of the town and castle, access to the Rossberg panoramic tower, or the Re-Naissance museum space. For families, a fun trail is available via the "Piste et Trésor" app, allowing them to discover Ferrette in an interactive and entertaining way, directly on their smartphones. A second fun trail is available in a printed booklet.