If I only had one day to discover Sundgau, I would start with Altkirch, its capital!
The layout of the streets in the centre of this old medieval town has not changed since the Middle Ages! It is a pleasure to discover them on foot. Between two historic buildings, an old watchtower, a fountain, an old gate, etc., a colourful work of street art appears. There are two circuits to discover the heritage and the frescoes, depending on your preferences. Depending on the day you come, take a trip to the Sundgauvien Museum to learn more about the history of the region, or to the CRAC – Centre Rhénan d'Art Contemporain – which offers three different exhibitions each year. Another curiosity to see: a private individual has created a small world of miniature trains in an old shop... ideal for families and model-making enthusiasts, who will enjoy watching them parade!
Do you like religious activities? Visit the Notre-Dame church, where the Altkirch castle used to be. Some remains can still be found behind the church. In the lower town is also the Saint-Morand Priory, another building that you can reach via a marked path from the centre in about fifteen minutes.
You like walking? That's great! Go to Rue du Roggenberg, all you have to do is climb... but the view is worth the effort: a superb panorama over the rooftops of Altkirch and in particular that of the Museum with its colorful tiles.
If you are passing through on a Thursday or Saturday morning, a trip to the market is inevitable to buy some local products...and why not have a little snack?
Another idea for lunch: fried carp! This is the typical dish of Sundgau. The carp is cut into steaks, fried with wheat semolina, and served with fries. It is hearty and delicious. Many restaurants offer it throughout the region. Our suggestion to kill two birds with one stone: the Gare restaurant in Hirtzbach, to have a good meal and then digest while strolling in the village's English garden, just a stone's throw away. This magnificent park, designed by Baron Charles de Reinach, is a peaceful place with its many trees, small ponds... and its icehouse, a construction you don't see every day!
If you have fallen under the spell of Hirtzbach and want more, head towards Hirsingue, then continue towards Bettendorf, Grentzingen, Oberdorf…on the Flowery Route, where you will be amazed by the view.
Another beautiful church, this one Romanesque, is to be seen in Feldbach, not far from the Route Fleurie. It is even the Romanesque jewel of the Sundgau. A stop is essential to discover the interior.
Another possibility, after Hirtzbach: head towards Largitzen and stop at the next village, Friesen. One of the oldest half-timbered houses in Alsace is located there, and there is a whole trail to discover the village. From there, go up the Largue valley to Dannemarie. A leisurely walk along the canal, to discover the canal bridge or the lock ladder, will be a nice way to end the day.xs